They think that the Confederates have not withdrawn; and if the Confederates should come (again), they would wish they were in the deserts (wandering) among the Bedouins, and seeking news about you (from a safe distance); and if they were in your midst, they would fight but little.
Meaning:-
Confederates: Confederates: united in a league, alliance, or conspiracy. a person, group, nation, etc.,
Bedouin: an Arab of the desert.
Midst: in the middle of, course of action, etc.