He read it attentively, and, turning to Robert, said, "Here are orders for an engagement at Five Forks to-morrow.

Oh, this wasting of life and scattering of treasure might have been saved had we only been wiser.

But the time is passing.

Look after your company, and see that everything is in readiness as soon as possible." Carefully Robert superintended the arrangements for the coming battle of a strife which for years had thrown its crimson shadows over the land.
The Rebels fought with a valor worthy of a better cause.

The disaster of Bull Run had been retrieved.