We had no shelter, our clothes were completely wet by the rain which had fallen during the entire night and we dared not make a fire, as it would have exposed us to the enemy who, we had reason to know had discovered our movements. For a small scouting party of theirs had captured a few miles back two of our party who had fallen behind the main body. After a short consultation we pushed on as fast as possible and found our boat unmolested where it had been hidden. One-half of our company at one time were set over the river and it so happened that I went with the first boat load. We found relief from fatigue in putting off our haversacks and, (although the rain was pouring down,) in sitting upon the ground on the north side of the stream, while the boat returned for the rest of our party. But scarcely were we seated when a startling cry arose that the rebel cavalry were upon us. We knew at once that if such were the case, our only safety was in fighting, for the river behind us barred our escape in that direction. In a moment a line was formed;--those fortunate enough to have either gun or pistol stood in front and the unarmed behind;--and the expected attack was awaited. Two horsemen could be seen approaching through the woods, but in the darkness it could not be told whether they were in advance of a column of troops or not. In either case we concluded they were enemies and with weapons levelled, we listened for the word of command to fire upon them. Much to our joy however, they gave us the friendly countersign, and we found that they were an Official of Anderson county and others, who had come to show us on our way. It was then about two o’clock in the morning and without waiting for the second half of our party to cross the river, we went forward under the guidance of our recently supposed enemies at a “double quick” pace. Not a word was spoken as we pressed on without halting,--sometimes through woods and sometimes through fields. As day began to break, from a very secluded spot in a piece of thick woods through which we were going, out stepped a small man with dark eyes and determined look, who without a word motioned us to follow him and then went rapidly ahead. The Anderson County Official who had guided us, immediately turned back homeward, bidding us adieu with a wave of his hand. Our new guide started off at such a quick gait that it was difficult for our leg-weary party to keep up with him. Some of them finding it impossible to do so, were obliged to fall behind and risk the chance of capture. We had walked almost forty miles during the night, through a hard and constant rain and over muddy, slippery ground. Our guide, (Wash Vann by name,) seeing that all were much fatigued, led the way to a secluded place near Nelson’s Ridge and there halted the company for needed rest. Haversacks were then opened, a breakfast made from their contents and nearly all stretched themselves upon the wet ground for repose. A few men were