about midnight
Cuffy had the four horses left at the ferry by the deserters who had been drowned , and the two officers took the two best ones . It was all of forty miles by the roads to Burkesville , where the general said he might be on their return . After the best supper the ferryman could provide for them , they started on their journey , following the river . On their arrival , about midnight , at Creelsboro ' , they were agreeably surprised to find the brigade there . The general had given them the countersign , and the lieutenants were promptly recognized by the sentinels . They were conducted to the tent of General Woodbine , who was called by his servant . `` I am very glad to see you , Lieutenant Lyon ; and you also , '' said the commander , as he took them both by the hand .