He was evidently engaged with the enemy. From the front came quick
carbine shots and shouts. From the woods, on the left flank and in rear
of the enemy, was heard the rapid thunder of cannon.
Suddenly every thing flashed upon me. I remembered Stuart's significant
smile; the absence of Fitz Lee; a trap had evidently been laid, and
General Kilpatrick had fallen into it.
I was not deceived. The gallant Fitz Lee had suggested the ruse. He was
to move toward Auburn, while Stuart retreated upon Warrenton, pursued
by Kilpatrick. Then Fitz Lee was to attack the enemy in flank and rear,
from the direction of Auburn--his cannon would be the signal for Stuart
to turn. General Kilpatrick, thus assailed in front, flank and rear,
_sauve qui pent_ would, probably, be the order of the day with him.
Every thing turned out exactly as it had been arranged. Stuart retired
steadily on Warrenton. When the Federal rear approached Buckland, Fitz
Lee came in on their left flank, and then Stuart turned like a tiger,
and bore down on the head of their column.
That gun we had heard was the signal of Fitz Lee's attack. Those
carbine shots came from Stuart as his men charged.
We had set out at full speed to rejoin Stuart, as I have said; but he
saved Tom and myself the trouble of riding very far.
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