Two companies were under arms, and were standing well back from the edge of the platform, so as to be out of sight of those in the forest.

The rest of the men were sitting round the fires.

Their muskets were piled in lines hard by.
When he alighted, the general proceeded to the battery.
"Have you everything in readiness, Major ?" he asked the officer in command.
"Yes, sir.

The guns are all loaded with grape and, as it will be very dark when the moon has set, I have pegged a white tape along, just under each gun; so that they can be trained upon the causeway, however dark it may be." "That is a very good idea," the general said.

"There is nothing more difficult than laying guns accurately in the dark." The colonel now arrived, a soldier having brought the news to him, as soon as the general reached the platform.
"I see that you are well prepared to give them a hot reception, Colonel." "I hope so, sir.