Hill had been sent in that direction to intercept the enemy's retreat,
but on the afternoon succeeding the adventure of Stuart, an ugly blow
was dealt him on the banks of Deep Run.
He came up with the enemy's rear guard under their brave General
Warren; assailed it in front of an embankment furiously, and suffered a
heavy repulse.
General Cooke was shot down at the head of his men; the brigade was
nearly cut to pieces; and Warren retreated across Deep Run, in grim
triumph, carrying off several pieces of Hill's artillery.
It was a grievous blow, and affected the brave Hill deeply. General Lee
was no less melancholy; it is said that he was both gloomy and restive.
It was reported, I know not upon what authority, that when he and
General Hill were riding over the field, and Hill essayed to explain
the unfortunate affair, the commander-in-chief shook his head, and said
in grave tones:--
"Say no more, general--have these poor dead soldiers buried."
From the hill above Bristoe, General Lee, accompanied by Stuart, looked
out in the direction of Manassas. Not a blue coat was to be seen. Meade
had made good his retreat. Everywhere he had eluded the blows of his
great adversary--and in parting from him, finally, at Bristoe, had left
blood in his foot-steps--the blood of some of Lee's best soldiers.
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