The word I had sent back, disclosing the complete desertion of that gash in the earth by the Confederates, had made this strategy possible.

And the Hardy house was naturally the pivot of the movement, and the retention of it in our possession essential to success.

But the one point they had apparently overlooked was Chambers' advance along this pike.

He was supposed to be much farther east, his column blocked by heavy roads.
Instead of that he was here already, his vanguard sweeping past the gate, double-quicking to the front, with long lines of infantry hurrying behind.

For us to bar the retreat of Johnston's demoralized men, safely intrenched within the house, might be possible, provided artillery was not resorted to.