the late hours after midnight
Once more repressed but intense excitement had complete hold of him . He could not have slept had the chance been given to him . The bulk of the army was now in front of Shields , and the pickets were not only in touch , but were skirmishing actively . All through the late hours after midnight Harry heard the flash of their firing in front of him . The cavalry under Sherburne and other daring leaders were exchanging shots with the equally daring cavalry of the enemy . As the dawn approached the firing was heavier . Harry knew that the day would witness a great battle , and his heart was filled with anxiety .