w his troops were posted, and the number
at each post.

Taking everything into consideration, Calhoun reported that Hartsville
offered the best opening for an attack. "It is the extreme eastern outpost
of the Federals," he said. "The nearest troops to them are at Castalian
Springs, nine miles away. The country from here to Hartsville is entirely
free of Federal troops, and we can approach the place unobserved. The
Cumberland River is low and can be forded. But if you wish, I will go and
make a thorough reconnaissance of the place."

"Go, and be back as soon as possible," replied Morgan, "but be careful; do
not take too many risks."

With a dozen of his trusty scouts, Calhoun had no trouble in reaching the
bank of the Cumberland River opposite Hartsville. Here, concealed in the
woods, through his glass he noted the position of every regiment, and drew
a map of the camp. But he was not satisfied with this. Under the cover of
darkness he crossed the river, determined to learn more. Above all, he
wished to learn where the enemy's pickets were posted at night, their
exact force, as nearly as possible, and the discipline which they were
under. He wanted to do all this without alarming them.

After crossing the river he concluded to call at a commodious farm-house,
situated some three miles from Hartsville. He was almost certain of a
hearty welcome; there were few disloyal to the South in that section. At
first he was taken for a Federal soldier in disguise, and admittance was
refused; but once the inmates were convinced that he was one of Morgan's
men, the heartiness of his welcome made up for the coldness of his first
reception.

The planter was well posted. There was one brigade at Hartsville. Until a
few days before, the brigade had been commanded by a Colonel Scott, but he
had been relieved by a Colonel Moore. This Moore was the colonel of one of
the regiments at Hartsville, and had been in the service but a short time.
Most of the troops were raw and inexperienced. Calhoun was glad to hear
all this.

In the morning, dressed as a rough country boy, he made a circuit of the
entire place. This he did by going on foot, and keeping to the fields and
woods. The location of every picket post was carefully noted, and the best
way to approach each one. In two or three instances he did not hesitate to
approach soldiers who were foraging outside of the lines, and in a whining
tone, enter into conversation with them, informing