The colonel of the regiment, pointing to where the body lay, asked, "Are there four men here who will fetch the body of Capt.
Payne from the field ?" Four men stepped out, and at once started.

But, as the body lay directly under the range of the rebel batteries, they were all swept down by the grape, canister, and shell which were let loose by the enemy.

The question was again repeated, "Are there four men who will go for the body ?" The required number came forth, and started upon a run; but, ere they could reach the spot, they were cut down.
"Are there four more who will try ?" The third call was answered in the affirmative, and the men started upon the double-quick.

They, however, fell before getting as far as the preceding four.

Twelve men had been killed in the effort to obtain the body of the brave Payne, but to no purpose.