the field, is an awful foe to meet in battle."

"We may have some of the same on our side," said Colonel Newcomb.
"We have at least a great Puritan population from which to draw."

One of the generals gave the signal and the balloon was slowly pulled
down. Dick, grateful for his experience, thanked Colonel Newcomb and
rejoined his comrades.




CHAPTER II

THE MOUNTAIN LIGHTS


When Dick left the balloon it was nearly night. Hundreds of campfires
lighted up the hills about him, but beyond their circle the darkness
enclosed everything. He still felt the sensations of one who had been
at a great height and who had seen afar. That rim of Southern campfires
was yet in his mind, and he wondered why the Northern commander allowed
them to remain week after week so near the capital. He was fully aware,
because it was common talk, that the army of the Union had now reached
great numbers, with a magnificent equipment, and, with four to one,
should be able to drive the Southern force away. Yet McClellan delayed.

Dick obtained a short leave of absence, and walked to a campfire,
where he knew he would find his friend, George Warner. Sergeant Whitley
was there, too, showing some young recruits how to cook without waste,