Another officer, riding with the skillful abandon of a cowboy, galloped his horse to a position directly before the general.
The two unnoticed foot soldiers made a little show of going on, but they lingered near in the desire to overhear the conversation.

Perhaps, they thought, some great inner historical things would be said.
The general, whom the boys knew as the commander of their division, looked at the other officer and spoke coolly, as if he were criticising his clothes.

"Th' enemy's formin' over there for another charge," he said.

"It'll be directed against Whiterside, an' I fear they'll break through there unless we work like thunder t' stop them." The other swore at his restive horse, and then cleared his throat.

He made a gesture toward his cap.