turning to Major Harrold, he for the last time repeated his instructions, peremptorily forbidding him to advance further than the Killaway Hill, but there to rally his forces and await his arrival, as being, not a point of view very favourable for making observations, but a most desirable position to be occupied; and from whence, ere the rebels had time to extend themselves, by their joint attack they would be instantly routed, as it was not to be supposed that so undisciplined a horde, however numerous, could stand against the assault of the brave men he had the honour to command.
So saying, the word being given, and the drawbridge let down, the General saw them depart.
Sorrowful and alone, Mrs. De Brooke had observed from her window the active preparations which had been making, and which, notwithstanding a few minutes' interview, employed in words of comfort and re-assurance from her husband, in spite of the courage she had summoned to her aid, sent an involuntary chill to her heart. In fearful expectation of the future, she looked with anxiety for his re-appearance. The General soon returned, but it was to employ himself in writing an express to collect the several companies of the foot regiment quartered within his district but a few miles distant,—ordering the officer in command to march
