CHAPTER XXXII.
WE REPULSE THE ENEMY I naturally anticipated an immediate attack, and began preparations.
Glass was broken from the small windows through which the men were to fire, and the sergeants and myself made inspection of men and arms, and gave orders for vigorous defence.

Yet we were already so well intrenched that this required but a few moments, and, confident I could shift my force quickly so as to meet any attack, I returned to the front rooms to observe the enemy.

To my surprise there was no evidence of any movement in our direction, although there had been a noticeable shifting of troops.

Chambers had swung his infantry forward through gaps in the line of battle, and was now confronting the Federal advance, not only holding his ground, but it seemed to me, slightly pushing his opponent.

I ran up stairs so as to obtain a wider view of the field.