He decided at last that the coming of Longstreet with an army into the valley was an impossibility, and he would go on to Washington.

But Sheridan made a reservation, and this, too, as the event showed, was highly important.

He ordered all the cavalry back to General Wright, while he proceeded with a small escort to the capital.
It was Dick who first learned what had happened, and soon all knew.
They discussed it fully as they rode back on their own tracks, and on the whole they were glad they were to return.
"I don't think I'd like to be tearing up railroads and destroying property," said Dick.

"I prefer anyhow for the valley to be my home at present, although I believe that dispatch means nothing.

Why, the Confederates can't possibly rally enough men to attack us!" "I think as you do," said Warner.