Harry raced toward the tent, which rose in modest size out of the
darkness, and sprang to the ground, when his horse reached it. A single
sentinel, rifle across his arms, was standing before it, but the flap
was thrown back and a light was burning inside.

"I'm a messenger for General Jackson!" cried Harry. "I've news that
can't wait!"

The sentinel hesitated a moment, but a figure within stepped to the door
of the tent and Harry for the first time was face to face with Stonewall
Jackson. He had seen him often near or far, but now he stood before him,
and was to speak with him.

Jackson was dressed fully and the fine wrinkles of thought showed on his
brow, as if he had intended to study and plan the night through. He was
a tallish man, with good features cut clearly, high brow, short brown
beard and ruddy complexion. His uniform was quite plain and his
appearance was not imposing, but his eyes of deep blue regarded the boy
keenly.

"I'm Lieutenant Kenton, sir, of Colonel Talbot's Invincibles," replied
Harry to the question which was not spoken, but which nevertheless was
asked. "Our arsenal at Hertford is besieged by a strong force of the
enemy, a force that is likely to be increased heavily by dawn. Luckily
Captain Sherburne and his troop of valley Virginians came up in time to
help, and I have slipped through the besieging lines to bring more aid."

Harry had touched his cap as he spoke and now he stood in silence while
the blue eyes looked him through.