cted during the
war, in their untrimmed state, stood overgrown with branches, their long
boughs trailing almost to the ground. His left, by which the enemy
was compelled to advance, were placed under cover of some of the
out-buildings. Thus prepared, he waited the approach of the British,
though not without sundry misgivings. It must be confessed that, at this
juncture, he had not the most perfect confidence in the force under his
command. They consisted, in great proportion, of those who, in that day,
were known as new-made Whigs--men who had deserted the enemy and been
cleansed of their previous treasons by the proclamation of Governor
Rutledge, which, not long before, had promised immunity to all who came
in promptly with their adhesion and joined the American ranks. There
were also present some of those who, under Gainey, had recently received
the protection of Marion, on the truce ground of Pedee. Major Gainey
himself was among them, and with forty of his people, was placed
conspicuously in the column in preparation for the British approach.
Well might Marion feel some uneasiness at his situation, particularly in
the absence of the cavalry on which he could rely. But our partisan had
the art of securing the fidelity of those around him, in quite as great
a degree as he possessed that other great military art, of extracting
good service out of the most doubtful materials. He concealed his
apprehensions, while he endeavored to dissipate those of his men.

Meanwhile, Witherspoon, with the reconnoitring party, advanced but a
little distance in the woods, when they were met by the enemy's cavalry
and instantly charged. A long chase followed, which soon brought the
pursuers into view of the partisan. His men were half concealed behind
the thick boughs of the cedars beneath which they were drawn up. The
interest of the chase, as they drew more near, was increased by a little
incident which was greatly calculated to encourage the militia. When in
full view, the horse of Witherspoon failed him, or his rider purposely
fell behind to bring up the rear of his little escort. At this sight
a British dragoon darted forward to cut him down. Witherspoon coolly
suffered him to advance until he was almost within striking distance.
With sword uplifted, the assailant had already risen in his stirrups
to smite, when, quick as lightning, Witherspoon, who had watched him
narrowly, poured the contents of his carbine into his breast. This wa