ion. Something was said about "flanking" and "enfilading 'em."

"Mind," said the General, "I don't order you; but, if you think you can
do it, go in."

We thought we could. It would hardly do to back out in the presence of
so distinguished a cavalry audience, if there was a chance of success. A
number of the staff had gathered round to hear our conversation, and
showed a great deal of interest at the prospect of a little "side show,"
at which they would have orchestra chairs, front row.

The General, with this group around him, was drawing the fire of the
stone wall people, and was urged to keep out of range, while the rest of
us scattered to less dangerous positions. Some of the staff came back
and watched the men "fall in," as if to see us off. Custer showed much
interest, and evidently would have enjoyed going with us.

We struck back into the country, and took a circuitous route behind
hedges and through corn-fields, Stevenson and myself running on
together, and the men following with their rifles as low as possible,
and crouching along to avoid attracting any notice.

We planned the attack as we went along, instructing sergeants, who in
turn fell back and gave orders to the men. Upon arriving at the
wheat-field, we all hugged the ground. Ten picked marksmen now crawled
forward with me into the wheat, while Captain Stevenson deployed the
rest of the men into as long a skirmish line as their numbers would
permit.

We despatched a messenger to notify Lieutenant Parker, whom we had left
near the guns, to join us at once. In justice to Parker, I must say that
he hated to be left out of a fight.

The ten marksmen crawled on through the wheat, till they were almost "on
the end" of the enemy's line; and then, crowding together so as to rake
the line, they fired at the signal, with terrible accuracy.

The Rebels were completely surprised, but turned and delivered a
scattering fire. My excellent Sergeant Nutting fell into my arms
mortally wounded. He was all pluck to the last moment. Although he could
not speak, he showed signs of wishing to bid us good-by, and was
evidently gratified at the manner in which we tenderly shook him by the
hand. It was a success for the company, but the men all seemed to share
my own feeling that it was dearly bought at such a price.

Meantime, Captain Stevenson was advancing through the wheat; and, as
soon as my party fired, he began making noise enough for two regiments.
We sprang ov