CHAPTER VII.

FROM GETTYSBURG TO THE WILDERNESS.

Both Armies Marching Back to the Rappahannock--Short Rest--Meade's Advance--Lee Retires to the Rapidan--Meade's Withdrawal From Lee's Front--Lee's Advance--Fighting Around Brandy Station--The Battle at Bristoe Station--The Union Army Retires Towards Washington--Lee Discontinues the Pursuit and Returns to the Rapidan River--In Winter Quarters--How the Winter Was Spent--Many of Lee's Soldiers Are Permitted to Return to Their Homes Under Care of Their Commanding Officers for a Vacation--Mosby Appears Upon the Scene.