first time was face to face with Stonewall
Jackson. He had seen him often near or far, but now he stood before him,
and was to speak with him.

Jackson was dressed fully and the fine wrinkles of thought showed on his
brow, as if he had intended to study and plan the night through. He was
a tallish man, with good features cut clearly, high brow, short
brown beard and ruddy complexion. His uniform was quite plain and his
appearance was not imposing, but his eyes of deep blue regarded the boy
keenly.

"I'm Lieutenant Kenton, sir, of Colonel Talbot's Invincibles," replied
Harry to the question which was not spoken, but which nevertheless was
asked. "Our arsenal at Hertford is besieged by a strong force of the
enemy, a force that is likely to be increased heavily by dawn. Luckily
Captain Sherburne and his troop of valley Virginians came up in time to
help, and I have slipped through the besieging lines to bring more aid."

Harry had touched his cap as he spoke and now he stood in silence while
the blue eyes looked him through.

"I know you. I've observed you," said Jackson in calm, even tones,
showing not a trace of excitement. "I did not think that the Federal
troops would make a movement so soon, but we will meet it. A brigade
will march in half an hour."

"Don't I go with it?" exclaimed Harry pleadingly. "You know, I brought
the news, sir!"

"You do. Your regiment will form part of the brigade. Rejoin Colonel
Talbot at once. The Invincibles, with you as guide, shall lead the way.
You have done well, Lieutenant Kenton."

Harry flushed with pride at the brief words of praise, which meant so
much coming from Stonewall Jackson, and saluting again hurried to his
immediate command. Already the messengers were flying to the different
regiments, bidding them to be up and march at once.

The Invincibles were upon their feet in fifteen minutes, fully clothed
and armed, and ready for the road. The cavalry were not available that
night, and the brigade would march on foot save for the officers. Harry
was back on his horse, and St. Clair and Langdon were beside him. The
colonels, Talbot and St. Hilaire, sat on their horses at the head of the
Invincibles, the first regiment.

"What is it?" said Langdon to Harry. "Have you brought this night march
upon us?"

"I have, and we're going to strike the Yankees before dawn at Hertford,"
replied Harry to both questions.

"I like the nights for rest," said Langdon, "but it could be