about midnight
Harry rode back to headquarters , whence he was sent with another dispatch , to Colonel Talbot , whom he found posted well in advance with the Invincibles . `` This note , '' said the colonel , `` bids us to watch thoroughly . General Meade and his army are expected on our front in the morning , and there must be no chance for a surprise in the night , say a dash by their cavalry which would cut up our rear guard or vanguard -- upon my soul I do n't know which to call it . Harry , as you can see by the note itself , you 're to remain with us until about midnight , and then make a full report of all that you and I and the rest of us may have observed upon this portion of the front or rear , whichever it may be . Meanwhile we share with you our humble rations . '' Harry was pleased . He was always glad when chance or purpose brought him again into the company of the Invincibles .