The simple action caused my heart to leap to my throat--could it be the lady played a part, her coldness to me intended to deceive others?
It was a hope, at least, and I went to my task with fresh courage.

I told it all in a dozen sentences--Johnston's plans for the morrow; the withdrawal of Confederate troops from our left, and their concentration in reserve of the enemy's centre; our capture of the Hardy house, and my hope to retain possession until the right of our line could be flung forward.
Then I called Ross, and he came across the room, looking scarcely more than a boy, but with a serious face.
"Can you find your way back down the ravine to our lines, my lad ?" "Yes, sir." "Then don't lose any time.

The Confederate troops have been withdrawn, but you must watch out for stragglers.

Give this to Colonel Cochran, and tell him it must be forwarded to headquarters at once.

Explain to him the situation here.