But late in February there was a great bustle, portending movement.

Supplies were gathered, horses were examined critically, men looked to their arms and ammunition, and the talk was all of high anticipation.

An electric thrill ran through the men.

They had tasted deep of victory since the previous summer, and they were eager to ride to new triumphs.
"It's to be an affair of cavalry altogether," said Warner, who obtained the first definite news.

"We're to go toward Staunton, where Early and his remnants have been hanging out, and clean 'em up.