We are improving rapidly. There is so much exhilaration in the shrill bugle-notes which order the movements of the drill, and so much life in its swift evolutions, that the men and horses seem to dance rather than walk on their way to the drill grounds, and both are readily learning the certain sounds of the trumpet, and becoming masters of motions and dispositions required of them. Like all other apprentices, of course, we occasionally indulge in the reveries of imagination, and we think we are laying the foundation of a career which is destined to be important and glorious. Be this as it may, we do not mean to be outstripped by any one in our knowledge and practice of cavalry tactics, and of the general manoeuvrings of war. [Illustration: CAVALRY COLUMN ON THE MARCH.] CHAPTER III. PREPARATIONS FOR ACTIVE SERVICE. 1861.--First Advance.--"Contrabands," their Hopes and Treatment.--Union Ranks Filling Up.--Promotion.--Foraging and its Obstacles.--Scouting and its Aim.--Senator Harris visits the Command.--Ball's Bluff. --Recruiting Service.--Interesting Incidents.--Camp Palmer.-- "Contrabands" at Work.--Drilling near Arlington Heights.--Colonel George D. Bayard.--Fight at Drainesville. October 15, 1861.--The Harris Light broke camp at eight o'clock, A. M., and marched proudly through Washington, crossed the famous Long Bridge over the Potomac, and moved forward to Munson's Hill, in full view of our infantry outposts, where we established a new camp, calling it "Advance." For the first time our horses remained saddled through the night, and the men slept on their arms. To us this was a new and exciting phase of life. Since our retreat from Bull Run, the Rebel army has made itself formidable on this line, and though no active movements have been attempted on Washington, we are, nevertheless, apprehensive of such a measure on their part. Hence our picket lines are doubly strong and vigilant, while every means is resorted to to ascertain the position, strength, and intention of our wily foe.