nearly midnight
-- ever mild , courteous , almost sad , doffing his cap , saluting with simple grace , and tuning his banjo . In a moment the tent , the wooded knoll , the whole vicinity was ringing with the uproarious notes of the mirth-inspiring banjo ; and Sweeney was chanting , as only that great master _ could _ chant , the mighty epic of the sabreurs of Stuart : -- `` If you want to have a good time Jine the cavalry , Bully Boys , hey ! '' The staff and couriers quickly assembled , the servants were grouped in the starlight , the horses beneath the boughs turned their intelligent heads -- and leading in the uproarious chorus might have been heard the sonorous and laughing voice of Stuart . The festivities were kept up until nearly midnight . Then Stuart yawned ; said with a laugh , `` Good morning , gentle - _ men _ '' as was his habit when he wished to work ; and the tent was soon deserted . I retired to rest , but at three in the morning felt a hand upon my shoulder . `` The general is going to move , colonel , and wishes to see you , '' said the orderly .