ith
dust, and by two o'clock it was reported to him that the Union cavalry
under Minty was in front, at Pea Vine Creek, ready to dispute his
passage to the Chickamauga. His column consisted of four divisions of
infantry, a portion of Forrest's cavalry, several batteries and eight
pieces of reserve artillery.

"If Minty's cavalry is in front, so much the worse for Minty," were the
Confederate's words. "Forward, and let every man do his best for the
gallant stars and bars!"

The wearers of the gray responded with that battle-cry which has since
become so well known; and the first division was hurled at Minty just as
he appeared at a turn in the road not far from the little creek.

The shock was heavy but the cavalry stood up to it, and a rapid fire on
both sides resulted. Seeing there were more Union cavalrymen in reserve,
Johnson sent additional troops to the front, and Minty was gradually
forced backward. It was then that the Riverlawns were called into
action.

"You are wanted, Colonel Lyon!" cried the dashing Union commander, who
sat astride of a steed covered with foam. "They are on us in
overwhelming numbers, yet my orders are to hold this road and the
bridge."

"I will help you all I can, Colonel," answered Colonel Lyon. "I'll go
wherever you think is best."

"Then take that road to our right. I have sent some of my own troops to
the left. Johnson may have so many men with him that he will try to cut
off my rear."

"I will follow your directions, Colonel," said the commander of the
Riverlawns; and, turning in the saddle, he issued the necessary orders;
and away went the twelve companies across a small open field a short
distance above Pea Vine Creek.

Minty had guessed correctly; Johnson was calculating to surround him,
and a division of his troops was already hurrying to the right of the
Union cavalry. There was a slight rise of ground, and it was the
intention of the Confederate commander to have his left wing sneak
around this. Once in the rear of Minty, the Union cavalry would be
caught in a trap and either wiped out or compelled to surrender.

The Riverlawns were sweeping directly up the hill at full speed, with
Deck in advance of the first battalion. His father was beside him, and
both reached the top together, field-glasses in hand.

"There they are!" cried Deck, pointing with his hand. "We are none too
soon!"

"You are right, my son," answered the colonel; and he motioned
Lieutenant-Colonel