The fields were bare, the vegetation
trodden out by armies, and, when the wind rose, clouds of dust beat upon
them. It was lucky for them that the country was cut by so many streams.
The Invincibles were moved about several times, but they stopped at
last at a little plateau where a branch railroad joined the main stem,
giving to the place the name Manassas Junction. Bull Run was near,
flowing between high banks, but with crossings at two fords and two
bridges. Beauregard had thrown up earthworks at the station, and strong
batteries were hidden in the foliage at the fords. The Southern army,
weary of waiting, was eager for battle. The Northern people, also weary
of waiting, demanded that their own troops advance.
As Harry sat with his friends one hot night the word was passed that the
Northern army was coming at last. The Southern scouts had reported that
McDowell's whole force was already on the march and was drawing near.
It would attempt the passage of Bull Run. A murmur ran through the camp
of the Invincibles, but there was little talk. They had already tasted
of battle at the fort in the valley, and it was not a thing to be taken
lightly.
Harry resolved that he would sleep if he could, but there was no rest
for the Invincibles just then.
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