e they started on
the expedition. The blue trousers could not be so easily disposed of; but
as some of the boys had straw hats, some felt, and some caps, it would
have been hard to determine what they were at the distance of a quarter
of a mile, especially as some of the Confederates wore the plundered
clothing of the Union army.

After instructing his force in regard to their future conduct, he marched
them boldly into the open space. To assist the deception, he directed one
of his men to halt occasionally, and point his musket in the direction of
the Union pickets. Not a shot was fired at them; and when the young
lieutenant reached the wheat-field he fancied that he was clever enough
for any brigadier in the rebel army.

It was desirable that the rebel sharpshooters at the house should not be
alarmed; and, when his men reached the grain, Somers ordered them to get
down upon their hands and knees, and creep cautiously towards the point
to be assailed. The lieutenant, like a good officer, led the way himself,
and had advanced about half the distance to be accomplished, when he
heard a rustling noise in the grain before him. It was an ominous sound,
and he paused to take an observation. He could not see anything without
standing up; and, as he was within twenty rods of the house, it was
necessary to avoid exposing himself.

From whatever source the sounds proceeded, it was just as safe to advance
as it was to retreat; and he decided to go forward. With the utmost
caution, he continued to creep along through the wheat; but he was
careful to assure himself that his men's muskets and his own revolver
were in condition for instant use. After he had gone a few rods farther,
the sounds were more apparent; and, with no little consternation, he
heard voices, rich with an unmistakable Southern accent.

"I tell you, more of our fellers is coming through the grain. You mought
hear 'em, ef you weren't deafer'n a dead nigger."

"I heerd 'em. You kin bet yer life they're some of our pickets.
Howsomever, I'm gwine to see."

"Hush, my men! don't speak a word!" whispered the young lieutenant. "Lie
flat on the ground."

The rebels were nearer than he had supposed; for, as he turned from his
men, he discovered a wiry grayback, with the chevrons of a sergeant on
his arms, trying to stare him out of countenance. The fellow did not look
wholesome; and Somers was in doubt whether to blow his brains out, or let
things take their natural