May 7.

The next morning brought a fresh surprise to both troops and townsfolk.  Banks, so the rumour went, was rapidly approaching; and it was confidently expected that the twin hills which stand above the town—­christened by some early settler, after two similar heights in faraway Tyrone, Betsy Bell and Mary Gray—­would look down upon a bloody battle.  But instead of taking post to defend the town, the Valley regiments filed away over the western hills, heading for the Alleghanies; and Staunton was once more left unprotected.  Jackson, although informed by Ashby that Banks, so far from moving forward, was actually retiring on New Market, was still determined to strike first at Milroy, commanding Fremont’s advanced guard; and there can be little question but that his decision was correct.  As we have seen, he was under the impression that Banks’ strength was 21,000, a force exceeding the united strength of the Confederates by 4200 men.* (* Jackson, 6000; Ewell, 8000; E. Johnson, 2800.) It was undoubtedly sound strategy to crush the weaker and more exposed of the enemy’s detachments first; and then, having cleared his own rear and prevented all chance of combination between Banks and Fremont, to strike the larger.

There was nothing to be feared from Harrisonburg.  Eight days had elapsed since Jackson had marched from Elk Run; but Banks was still in blissful ignorance of the blow that threatened Fremont’s advanced guard.

On April 28 he had telegraphed to Washington that he was “entirely secure.”  Everything was satisfactory.  “The enemy,” he said, “is in no condition for offensive movements.  Our supplies have not been in so good condition nor my command in so good spirits since we left Winchester.  General Hatch (commanding cavalry) made a reconnaissance in force yesterday, which resulted in obtaining a complete view of the enemy’s position.  A negro employed in Jackson’s tent came in this morning, and reports preparation for retreat of Jackson to-day.  You need have no apprehensions for our safety.  I think we are just now in a condition to do all you can desire of us in the Valley—­clear the enemy out permanently.”

On the 30th, when Ashby repaid with interest Hatch’s reconnaissance in force, he reported:  “All quiet.  Some alarm excited by movement of enemy’s cavalry.  It appears to-day that they were in pursuit of a Union prisoner who escaped to our camp.  The day he left Jackson was to be reinforced by Johnson and attack via Luray.  Another report says Jackson is bound for Richmond.  This is the fact, I have no doubt.  Jackson is on half-rations, his supplies having been cut off by our advance.  There is nothing to be done in this Valley this side of Strasburg.”