noon
On the contrary it will be easily made to appear that from these ` reconnoissances in force , ' an advantage has been gained , which is to make the next advance a sure and overwhelming success . For the fact is , that a day was chosen for this mighty movement , when the wind was southerly , a soft and gentle breeze , which wafted the odour of the Yankee whiskey-rations to the nostrils of Confederate soldiers . The Confederates ought to have been taken by surprise that morning ; but the moment they snuffed the tainted gale , they knew what was to be the morning 's work . Not more unerring is the instinct which calls the vulture to the battle-field before a drop of blood is shed ; or that which makes the kites ` know well the long stern swell , that bids the Romans close ; ' than the sure induction of our army that the Yankees are coming on , when morn or noon or dewy eve breathes along the whole line a perfumed savour of the ancient rye . The way in which this discovery may be improved is plain . It will be felt and understood throughout the intelligent North , that it gives them at last the key to Richmond . They will say -- Those rebels , to leeward of us , smell the rising valour of our loyal soldiers : the filling and emptying of a hundred thousand canteens perfumes the sweet South as if it had passed over a bed of violets , stealing and giving odours : -- when the wind is southerly it will be said , rebels know a hawk from a handsaw .