between the
cavalry reserve and their videttes, who were sitting upon their horses
but a few rods in front, and then took us around to the pike about a
mile beyond this last post of the rebels. After obtaining important
information from him concerning the way to the front, and giving him a
substantial reward, we cordially took his hand in parting. If good deeds
are recorded in Heaven, this slave appeared in the record that night.

The line of the pike was then rapidly followed as far as Diascum river,
which was reached just at light Sunday morning. To cross this river
without assistance from some quarter was found impossible. We tried to
wade through it, but failed in this attempt. We were seen by some of the
neighboring population, which largely increased our danger and
trepidation; for we had been informed by our guide that the enemy's
scouts came to this point every morning. After awhile we succeeded in
reaching an island in the river, but could get no farther, finding deep
water beyond. We endeavored to construct a raft but failed. The water
being extremely cold, and we being very wet and weary, we did not dare
attempt to swim the stream; and expecting every moment to see the
enemy's cavalry, our hearts sank within us. At this juncture a rebel
soldier was seen coming up the river in a row-boat with a gun.
Requesting my companions to lie down in the grass, I concealed myself in
the bushes close to the water to get a good view of the man. Finding his
countenance to indicate youth and benevolence, I accosted him as he
approached.

"Good morning; I have been waiting for you; they told me up at those
houses that I could get across the stream, but I find the bridge is
gone, and I am very wet and cold; if you will take me over, I will pay
you for your trouble."

The boat was turned into the shore, and as I stepped into it I knew that
boat was mine. Keeping my eye upon his gun, I said to him, "there are
three more of us," and they immediately stepped into the boat. "Where do
you all come from?" said the boatman, seeming to hesitate and consider.
We represented ourselves as farmers from different localities on the
Chickahominy. "The officers don't like to have me carry men over this
river," he said, evidently suspecting who we were. I replied, "that is
right; you should not carry soldiers or suspected characters." Then
placing my eyes upon him, I said, "pass your boat over!" it sped to the
other shore. We gave him one or