Then they galloped forward, shouting that they were friends, and in a few minutes were in the presence of Grierson himself.
He had been making a great raid, but he was eager now for the opportunity to strike at Forrest.

He must give his horses a short rest, and then Dick and the sergeant should guide him at speed to the ford where the opposing forces stood.
"It's twenty-five miles, you tell me ?" said Grierson to Dick.
"As nearly as I can calculate, sir.

It's through swampy country, but I think we ought to be there in three or four hours." "Then lead the way," said Grierson.

"Like your colonel, I'll be glad to have a try at Forrest." Sergeant Whitley rode in advance.

A lumberman first and then a soldier of the plains, he had noted even in the darkness every landmark and he could lead the way back infallibly.