Near it were several negroes engaged in various occupations.

As he passed the house, the negroes all suspended operations, and stared at him till he was out of sight.

He soon reached the Gap; but he had advanced only a short distance before he discovered a battery of light artillery stationed on a kind of bluff, and whose guns commanded the approaches in every direction.
Deeming it prudent to reconnoitre before he proceeded any farther, he also ascertained that the Gap was picketed by rebel infantry.

Of course it was impossible to pass through under these circumstances, and he again took to the woods.

The scanty supply of food which he had purchased from Mrs.
Burnap was now produced, and he made an economical breakfast.