With Porter in North Missouri; A Chapter in the History of the War Between the States (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text, images, or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1909. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER XIV THE BATTLE OF SANTA FE Half an hour after the prisoners were paroled the word to saddle was passed around, and presently a newcomer rode into camp. I knew he was a newcomer because, the day being warm, he had thrown his coat across the pommel of his saddle and his white shirt was fresh-laundered and clean. He was a fine specimen of the handsome, vigorous, intelligent man. In conversation with a little squad he said that he was from Boone County, and that his name was Kneisley. He had scarcely attached himself to one of the companies--not ours--when the order to march was given. Captain Penny's company led the column and the gait was a moderate one. A mile or two from camp, at the forks of the road, we met Stillson in the left. He told us that the Federals were down the road a short distance and that we should meet them in a few minutes if we kept on. "How many are there?" some one asked. "Oh, I don't know. I turned back as soon as I saw they were not of my command, and if I did know how many they are would you expect me to tell you?" "Certainly not, unless you let it slip without thinking; all's fair in love and war, you know. But why is it that you did not join them instead of coming back to tell us?" "I consider it the proper thing, as well as the most prudent, to strike for a post unless I can sooner reach my command. As for giving you this information, you men have treated me so white, I couldn't help it." Mutual expressions of good will and hopes for safety were heartily given and after a round of hand shaking Stillaon took the other road and was soon lost to view. In the meantime Colonel Porter had been sent for. The messenger met him coming forward to learn why the column had halted. When informed of the situation he directed a man to...