Cole led a patrol out into the wilderness. News of raids on outlying farmsteads caused a good deal of concern. His quarry, however, proved elusive, and it was with great reluctance he made his way back to the fort. It was upon his return that he heard of Antietam and the terrible loss of life the battle caused. He spent several days kicking his heels as more and more reports trickled in. It seemed that all of his efforts to bring Cairns to justice and return Lester’s plans had been for nothing. The Army of the Potomac licked its wounds, but overall victory was some way off.
Then, the morning came when all soldiers were assembled on the parade ground, battle standards unfurled, officers in full dress. Cole stood a little detached, the chill air biting deep through his clothes. Winter was m
