Our troopers did not seem really frightened; they now jogged along doggedly, but coolly enough. We had with us on the New Canaan road some twenty light dragoons, not including Boyd, myself, and Jack Mount — one captain, one cornet and a trumpeter lad, the remainder being rank and file, and several mounted militiamen.

The captain, riding in the rear with us, was ever twisting his hatless head to scowl back at the Hussars; and he talked continually in a loud, confident voice to reassure his men.

“They’re dropping off by tens and twenties,” he said. “If they keep to that habit we’ll give ‘em a charge. Wait till the odds lessen. Steady there, boys! This cattle chase is not ended. We’ll fetch ‘em a crack yet. We’ll get a chance at