"I don't want the 'glory' of running a command into an ambush." Calling to Riley and four sailormen, Dave led them down the street at the double-quick until he was two hundred yards in advance Then he led his men on at marching speed.
The work at the "point" is always the post of greatest danger with a marching command.

This point is small in numbers, and moves well in advance.

If the enemy has posted an ambuscade on the line of march it is the point that runs into this danger.
As they marched Dave did not preserve any formation of his men.
His detachment strode forward, alert and watchful, their rifles ready for instant use.
Three blocks away a horse stood tethered before a door.

Hearing the sound of approaching feet a man looked hurriedly out of the doorway.

Then he rushed to the horse and untied it.
"Halt!" Shouted Ensign Darrin, as he saw the man dart from the doorway.