January and February passed away without any very stirring events; but in the month of March came indications of activity.

The rebels began to draw in their lines, by abandoning various points, till the nation was startled by the evacuation of their strongly fortified position at Manassas, and the forts in front of Budd's Ferry were suddenly left for the occupation of the Federal troops.
Hooker's men crossed the Potomac, and Tom was once more on the sacred soil of Virginia.

Skirmishers were sent out in various directions, and though a deserted camp, which had been hastily abandoned, was found, there were no rebels to be seen.

The Union boys were not disposed to leave their investigations at this interesting point, and they pursued their way still farther into the country.

Somehow or other, Tom and his party did not receive the order to return, and the enterprising young hero continued his march in search of further adventures.