to the end of the
conflict, is now offering extra inducements, in the way of furloughs and
bounties, to secure the reenlistment of these men to the end of the war.
The orders propounded to us meet with universal favor, and the cry runs
like wild-fire from rank to rank, "let us go in, boys!" This will be an
element of great power.

A citizen-youth, of manly bearing, who professes loyalty to our cause,
came to our pickets to-day, and from thence to headquarters, bringing
information of a Rebel plan to surprise our picket lines to-night. We
will give them a warm reception if they undertake the execution of their
scheme. A regiment of infantry, and one squadron of cavalry arrived
before dark, and are in readiness for the night's entertainment. The
pickets are doubly strong, and are under special orders to be vigilant.

_October 9._--The enemy did not venture an attack last night, but
doubtless contented themselves with the maxim that "discretion is the
better part of valor." Possibly they were informed of our preparation
for them. Spies and informants are numerous and active on both sides.

Lieutenant Houston and privates Donahue and Pugh were captured this
morning while scouting just beyond the pickets. Much activity is
manifested on our front. Indeed, it is quite generally understood among
us that General Lee is taking the initiatory steps of a flank movement
upon us. Our scouts so report, and the suspicious movements of the
pickets and forces before us corroborate the information.

[Illustration: THE CAPTURE--CAVALRY FIGHT AT BUCKLAND MILLS.]

CHAPTER XV.

CAPTURE OF THE AUTHOR.

1863.--Fight at James City.--Music of Retreat.--Fourth Cavalry Fight at
Brandy Station.--Critical Situation.--Kilpatrick Undaunted.--Davies
and Custer.--The Grand Charge.--The Escape.--The Scene.--Subsequent
Charges and Counter-charges.--The Cavalry Routed.--The Rappahannock
Recrossed in Safety.--Infantry Reconnoissance to Brandy Station.--
Comical Affair at Bealeton Station.--Thrilling Adventure of Stuart.
--His Escape.--Battle of Bristoe.--Casualties.--Retreat Continued.
--Destruction of Railroad by the Rebels.--Kilpatrick at Buckland
Mills.--Unpleasant Surroundings.--Sagacity and Daring.--The Author's
Capture.--Fall, Insensibility, Change of Scene.--The End.--Introduced
to Prison Life.

Early in the morning of October tenth the enemy, in heavy force, came
down upon our pickets along th