e.

The cavalry had had even a rougher time than the infantry, and one large
regiment had not yet reported. But Morgan determined not to wait, for it
would soon be light, and they would be discovered. So with thirteen
hundred men Morgan moved to capture a Federal brigade of over two
thousand, and in a position of their own choosing.

To Calhoun and his scouts was assigned the difficult but important task of
capturing the outposts without alarming the camp. The success of the whole
movement might depend upon this.

So adroitly did Calhoun manage it, that the surprised pickets were
captured without firing a gun. Nor was the Confederate force discovered
until they were within four hundred yards of the Federal camp, and
advancing in line of battle. It was now getting light, and a negro
camp-follower discovered them and gave the alarm.

The Federals having been taken by surprise and most of the officers and
men being raw and inexperienced, consternation reigned in the camp. But
they formed their lines, and for a few moments put up a brave fight. Then
their lines broke. Colonel Moore did not seem to have his brigade well in
hand, and each regiment fought more or less independently. In a short time
only the One Hundred and Fourth Illinois regiment was left on the site of
the camp to continue the battle. Although this regiment had been only
three months in the service and had never been in an engagement before,
under the command of their brave Lieutenant Colonel, Douglass Hapeman,
they did not surrender until they were entirely surrounded and nearly two
hundred of their number had been shot down.

Morgan warmly complimented this regiment on its bravery, saying if all the
regiments had been like it, the result of the contest would have been
doubtful. In one hour and a quarter after the battle opened, all was over.
A whole brigade had laid down their arms to the prowess of Morgan.

But now a new danger arose. Calhoun had been sent toward Castalian Springs
to watch the enemy in that direction. One of his scouts came dashing in
with the intelligence that five thousand Federals were hurrying to the
relief of Hartsville. They must be stopped, and time given to get the
prisoners and munitions of war across the Cumberland.

Morgan hurried two regiments to where Calhoun and his little band of
scouts were resisting the advance of the enemy. The show of strength made
halted the Federals, and a precious hour and a half was gained. In