At a little distance from the house was a row of negro huts.

These were mostly vacant, the former occupants having secured their freedom by taking refuge within our lines.
"As sergeant in command--you must know that I have been promoted--I inquired of Mrs.Roberts what danger she apprehended.

Her answers were vague and unsatisfactory.

However, she seemed disposed to treat me very civilly, and at nine o'clock invited the whole party into the house to partake of a little refreshment.

This invitation was very welcome to soldiers who had not for months partaken of anything better than camp fare.