He soon emerged with important intelligence.
"It is all settled.

The army is ready to move at the instant.

Orders will be issued at two o'clock, and we will be under way before daylight.

Skirmishing will begin at nine, and the full battle will be drawn on at twelve." "Is the plan arranged ?" "Yes, it is all arranged; but I did not ask how." "Battle sure to come off--is it ?" "Certainly, unless Hunter comes and countermands the order." Alas, for human calculations! General Hunter arrived before midnight.
Two o'clock came, but no orders to break camp.

Daylight, and no orders to march.