about three o'clock in
the morning
Westward , the mountains seemed very near in the clear moonlight . No explanation was given to the Invincibles , but the officers rode among the groups and made a careful inspection of arms and equipment . Then the word to march once more was given . They did not stop , except for short rests , until about three o'clock in the morning , when they came to the crest of a high ridge , covered with dense forest , but without undergrowth . Then the officers dismounted , and the word was passed to the men that they would remain there until dawn , but before they lay down on the ground Colonel Talbot told them what was expected of them , which was much . `` A strong Northern force is encamped on the slope beyond , '' he said . `` It is in a position from which the left flank of our main army can be threatened .