[93]
something in this movement, and looking for shallow water, but finding none, we immediately plunged into the stream and swam the river.
When within twenty feet of the opposite shore we heard firing and cries of “come back,” and on turning round we saw ten or fifteen men, in their shirt sleeves, ordering us back, and firing several shots at us. Of course we did not obey this command, but started off at a good pace into what we supposed was Maryland.
We had not gone far before we came to another stream, which we waded.
We afterwards ascertained that we had crossed Edward's Island about 17 miles from Washington.
Before losing sight of our pursuers, Capt. Allen showed his pistol, and shook it in defiance of them.
This was the only weapon, with the exception of the knife, we had among us. This was about half-past 5 Sunday morning. Finding ourselves among friends, we walked five miles to Great Falls, where we laid down and rested till noon.
On waking we resumed our march, and reached the arsenal at nine at night, where we found our picket-guard of Second Vermont regiment.
They received us kindly, provided us with supper, and furnished us with a bed. The next morning we all hurried on to Washington, and telegraphed our safe arrival to our friends.
* * * * * *
--N. Y. Times.
