But the Winchester men had time to breathe, and also to exult, as they had suffered but little loss.

While they remained at the captured fort, awaiting further orders, they watched the battle elsewhere, flaring in a long irregular line across the valley.
The rifle fire was heavy and the big guns of Early were sweeping the roads with shell and grapeshot.

As well as Dick could see through his glasses, the only success yet achieved was that of the cavalry at the fort.

Sheridan himself had not yet appeared, and the hopes of the three sank a little.

They had seen so many triumphs nearly achieved and then lost that they could believe in nothing until it was done.
But the morning was yet very young.