General Smith passed as I was standing on the porch.

I saw that he had noticed me, though he gave no sign of having done so.

As more troops passed, men began leaving their companies and rushing toward the house.

I walked out and ordered them away in the name of the general.

They all knew who I was, and obeyed, much to the astonishment of the old lady and her daughter.
Turning to my hostess, I said: "Madam, I can't keep them out of your chicken-house or your smoke-house or your storerooms, but I can keep them out of your home, and I will." I remained on the porch till the entire command had passed.