It was a file of men on the other side of the fence, keeping in its shelter as they crossed the field towards his house.

Roughly calculating from the passing obscurations, there must have been twelve or fifteen in all.
He could no longer doubt their combined intentions, nor hesitate how to meet them.

He must at once make for the quarters with Cato, even if he had to cross that open field before them.

He knew that they would avoid injuring him personally, in the fear of possible Federal and political complications, and he resolved to use that fear to insure Cato's safety.
Placing his hands on the negro's shoulders, he shoved him forwards, falling into a "lock step" so close behind him that it became impossible for the most expert marksman to fire at one without imperiling the other's life.

When half way across the field he noticed that the shadows seen through the openings of the fence had paused.