THE MESSENGER FROM RICHMOND It seemed that Dick and his comrades were to see an activity in the valley under Sheridan much like that which Harry and his friends had experienced under Stonewall Jackson earlier in the war.

All of the men before they went to sleep that night had felt confirmed in the belief that a strong hand was over them, and that a powerful and clear mind was directing them.

There would be no more prodigal waste of men and supplies.

No more would a Southern general have an opportunity to beat scattered forces in detail.

The Union had given Sheridan a splendid army and a splendid equipment, and he would make the most of both.
Their belief in Sheridan's activity and energy was justified fully, perhaps to their own discomfort, as the trumpets sounded before dawn, and they ate a hasty breakfast, while the valley was yet dark.