He had come from a long journey and he reported great activity in the Southern camp.

When Dick said that Lee and Jackson would have to fight both Pope and McClellan the spy merely replied: "Yes, if Pope and McClellan hurry." But Dick learned that night that Pope was not discouraged.

He had an army full of fighting power, and eager to meet its enemy.

He began the next day to move up the river in order that he might face Lee's whole force as it attempted to cross at the upper fords.

Their spirits increased as they learned that Early, through fear of being cut off, was going back to join the main Southern army.
The ground had now dried up after the great storm, but the refreshed earth took on a greener tinge, and the air was full of sparkle and life.
Dick had not seen such elasticity among the troops in a long time.