“I trust we shall not need support, general,” said the pastor, resolutely. “Before the day is over I fancy my followers will have got some better arms than they now possess.” “Decidedly, you ought to have been a soldier, reverend sir,” observed Wills. “You would have done credit to the profession. Now, will you remain here for the night, or march on with your men to Chorley, so as to have less to do to-morrow?” “We will adopt the latter course, general,” replied the pastor. “We will halt for the night at a small place called Whittle-in-the-Woods, about six miles from Penwortham. We can take up our post early in the morning. Have you any further orders to give me?” “None,” replied Wills. “But I hope you will take some refreshment before you set out on your march.” “All is ready for you,” said Sir Henry Hoghton, advancing. “Come with me and bring your men with you.” Parson Woods willingly complied with the invitation, and, saluting the general in a military style, accompanied Sir Henry to the mess-room of the militia, where a substantial repast awaited him and his men. Thoroughly recruited, and in very good spirits, the warlike pastor commenced his march to Whittle-in-the-Woods. X.--GENERAL WILLS ARRIVES AT PRESTON. |Having fully arranged his plans, General Wills summoned the various commanders, and after explaining to them his views, made the following disposition of his forces. The horse and dragoons were to be formed into three brigades: the first to consist of Wynn's and Honey-wood's regiments, under the command of Brigadier Honeywood; the second to comprise Munden's and Stanhope's regiments, under the command of Brigadier Mun-den; and the third to comprehend Pitt and Dormer's regiments, under the command of Brigadier Donner. “We shall set out at break of day,” said the general, “and this will be the order of march. In the front will be Preston's foot, with a vanguard of fifty men from the regiment, commanded by Lord Forrester. Then will follow the three brigades I have appointed, while the whole of the militia, under the command of Sir Henry Hoghton, will bring up the rear.” “Am I to cross the bridge, general?” inquired Sir Henry, who was present. “Most probably the bridge and the approaches to it will be defended,” replied Wills. “Post your men at various points on the south bank of the river. Station two parties of horse about a hundred yards apart on the left of the bridge, and place small parties along the bank as far as the ferry-house, extending them, if necessary, in the direction of Penwortham, where Parson Woods will be posted with his men. Thus the whole of the bank will be guarded, and no supplies can be conveyed to the rebels--nor can any of them escape.” “I quite understand, general,” said Sir Henry, “and will carefully attend to your instructions.”