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About Google Book Search Google's mission is to organize the world's information and to make it universally accessible and useful. Google Book Search helps readers discover the world's books while helping authors and publishers reach new audiences. You can search through the full text of this book on the web at |http: //books .google .com/I tt^tl/li.i,/^ ||hak»\rd collegeH LIBRARY jy ^^^^^ m Will fr.om'the \\l]i| Iff / FUND mm\ i IN MEMORY OF Iffl f THE TWENTIETH ii^ < MASSACHUSETTS REGIMENT m ll M\ OFVOLUNTEER, \^\W\ RkviV '■^FANTRY 7flPl ^ P^^^ MDCCCLXI~V /«!^# f ^OokS'QN MILITARY H^TO^^ ^ AND THE ART OF WAR- ^ •i BULL RUN TO BULL RUN ; OR, FOUR YEARS ,1 ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA. CONTAINING A DETAILED ACCOUNT OF THE CAREER AND ADVENTURES OF The Baylor Light Horse, Company B, Twelfth Virginia Cavalry, C. S. A., WITH LEAVES FROM MY SCRAP-BOOK. By aiiX>KCiK 13AYIX>R. Rise, too, ye shapes and shadows of the past, Rise from your long-forgotten graves at last ; Let us behold your faces, let us hear The words you uttered in those days of fear. Revisit your familiar haunts again— The scenes of triumph, and the scenes of pain— Arvd leave the foot-prints of your bleeding feet Once more upon the pavements of the street. — Longfellow. KIOHMOJf L> I Ji. F. JOHM'SOM' PlTBLISHnrO OOBCPAJfY. lOOO. S 62/6.6/ APR 1 1912 .y.'f'. ooi*yiu:ghtbi>, G-SORO-X3 BA-lTLiOR* lOOO. I DEDICATION. To THE Memory of the Noble Dead AND TO TheJSurvivors of the "Baylor Light Horse," Company B, Twelfth Virginia Cavalry, C. S. A. PREFACE. Having long and earnestly desired that some one more competent would write the brilliant career of the Baylor Light Horse during the Civil War, but finding the work still unperformed, I have been induced in my humble way to undertake the task, trusting my effort may serve to revive, if not perpetuate, the story of its heroism and devotion to the " Lost Cause.** In doing so, I have endeavored to portray its deeds of daring and adventure with truth, justice, and impartiality to friend and foe. The Records of the Civil War, as well as con- temporaneous writings and the history of the times, have been freely used to present fairly the adversary's account and version of the events narrated. With a just pride in the leadership of so gallant a band of soldiers, with high appreciation of the cheerful and ready manner in which so many dangers were shared, and with a grateful sense of the uniform kindness and courtesy extended me at all times, this work, imperfect as I know it to be, is humbly commended to the favorable reception of my comrades and friends. CONTENTS. Page. *Chapter I. — Outbreak of War— Joined Ashby's Company — ^Ride to Harper's Ferry — Changed from Cavalry to Infantry and En- listed in the Botts Greys — Camp Lee — Ordinance of Seces- sion — Skirmish on July 2d — Confronted Patterson at Darkes- viiie — ^Retired to Winchester — March to Manassas — ^Battle of Manassas 16 Chapteb II. — Camp Harman — Death of Lawrence — Lee Berry- Jackson's Address — Return to the Valley — Flank into Win- chester — ^The " Dam Trip *' — March to Berkeley Springs — Firing on Hancock — ^Move to Romney — ^Return to Winches- ter—Banks's Advance — Battle of Kernstown 26 Chapter III. — ^Baylor Light Horse Organized — Character of Men — Captain Baylor Wounded at McGaheysville — Battle of McDowell — Battles of Front Royal and Winchester — Capture of Sir Percy Wyndham — Death of Ashby— Battles of Crosa Keys and Port Republic — Jackson Moves to Front of Rich- mond — Dash into Front Roya! — Return of Darrell's Sword... 37 Chapteb IV. — Capture of a Train on the W. & P. R. R. — Smith- field Taken — Retreat of Company B — Lieutenant Milling Dis- missed 55 Chapter V. — ^Winchester Evacuated — Capture of Picket near Keyes's Ford — Fight at Darkesville — Capture of Harper's Ferry — Battle of Sharpsburg — Company B*s Camp Surprised by Cole's Cavalry— My Horse Killed— Fight With Geary at Charlestown — Fight Near Lucas's Gate — Capture of Captain Baylor and W. L. Wilson 67 Chapter VI. — A Little Escapade in Lower Valley — Fight at Smithfield — Capture Near Porter's Factory — Taken Through Charlestown a Prisoner — Lieutenant Hill — ^Harper's Ferry Guard-House — Baltimore and Fort McHenry 82 Chapter VII. — Prisoner at Fort McHenry — Attempt to Escape — Put in Cell on Right of Sal ly-Port— Sent to Fort Delaware- Meet my Father— Life at This Fort- My Father's Diary- Amusements in Prison Life 91 Chapter VIII. — J. Ogden Murray, Gemmil, and Purvis— My Father's Diary Continued — ^My Father's Case and Corre- spondence 104 TO Contents, Page. Chapter IX. — Leave Fort Delaware — Kindness of Officers, Men, and Sympathizers — ^Back to Fort McHenry — ^Escape of W. B. Compton — Execution of Leopold — ^Taken to Fort Monroe^ Meeting with Colonel Thomas G. Baylor— His Kind Offices- City Point and BYeeman Again — ^Uncle Tom — Richmond- Back with Command— Correspondence Concerning the case of my Father 119 Chapter X. — Jones's West Virginia Raid — Moorefield and Peters- burg — Greenland Gap — Oakland — Cranberry Summit — Mor- gantown — Fairmount — Bridgeport — Oiltown — Phillippi — Weston — ^Back to Valley — Join Stuart at Culpeper — Brandy Station Fight 136 Chapter XI. — Forward Movement — Middleburg — Upperville^ O'Ferrall Wounded — Company B Posted at Harper's Ferry — Attack on Picket Force in Bolivar — ^Meet the First Connecti- cut Cavalry — Trip to Harper's Ferry and Capture of Sutlers — Fight at Culpeper — Lomax and "Gentlemen" — ^In the Enemy's ' Rear and Safe Escape— Jack Shop Engagement^ — Ranson, Manning and Cookus ! '. ' 148 Chapter XII. — Bristoe Campaign Begun — Attempt to Capture Signal Corps — Charge at Stonehouse Mountain — Brandy Station — In Rear of the Enemy at Jeffersonton — Charge at Warrenton Springs — Capture of Prisoners on Road to War- renton — Auburn — -Manassas — ^Bristoe — ^Buckland Races — Om- doff and Crane — Company B Furloughed for Gallantry 162 Chapter XIII. — Rosser Commands Our Brigade — Attack on Meade's Wagon-Train — Fight at Parker's Store — Death of Richard Baylor — Raid in Rear of Meade's Army — Rev. George H. Zimmerman and Dr. Williams do not Relish a Joke — Raid to Moorefield and Vicinity — Fight on New Creek Grade — Sam Wright Killed — George Baylor Wounded — ^Return to Valley — Plays Part of Ancient Hobson — ^Dr. Burton's Keg of Whiskey — '* Laurel Brigade " — Opie and Keyser 180 Chapter XIV. — Grant Commands Army of Potomac — First Day's Fight in Wilderness — Loss in Company B — On Staff Duty- Lieutenant Washington Wounded — ^Returned to Command — . Second Day's Fight — Lose and Recapture My Hat — Capture of Fifth Army Corps Hospital— Death of Stuart — Hawes Shop Fight 199 Chapter XV.— Ashland Fight— Death of Locke— Trevilllan— Colonel Alger — Engagement at Charles City Courthouse — Slightly Wounded — Colonel Massie Wounded — Hampton's Re- port—Gregg's Report 214 Chapter XVI. — Fight at Sappony Church — Wilson Routed — Bony Killed — Large Captures — Mason and Manning and Green Watermelon — Fight Near Reams Station — F. J. Manning Wounded — Engagement at Reams Station — Hancock Routed — Contents. // Page. Coleman Wounded — Pursuit — Castleman Wounded — Cattle laid, Capture 2,486 Head of Beef Cattle— Dick Timberlake Killed—Ike Strider Wounded 230 Chapter XVII.— Return to Shenandoah Valley— Sheridan's Burn- ing and Devastation — Fight at Mill Creek — Strider and Lack- land Take Charge of Sheep— Tom's Brook Fight— Company B's Charge — Ike Anderson Wounded — Early's Opinion of Lromax — Surprise at Petticoat Gap — Cedar Creek Battle- Tom Timberlake Wounded — Sheridan's and Early's Forces Compared— Phil Terrill Killed 248 Chapter XVIII. — Night Attack at Alstadt's Farm — Narrow Es- cape from Capture — Fight at Charlestown — Robert W. Baylor, Jr., Killed — George Crayton Wounded — Encounter at Mill- dale — Rouss's Account 261 Chapter XIX. — Sharpsburg Bank Venture — Capture of Mules — Sheridan and Stevenson Friendly — Desertions — Sheridan Asks Permission to Handle West Virginia Officers— <^uster and Torbert Start for Lynchburg and are Foiled — ^Wounding of Mosby 273 Chapter XX. — Capture of Mules at Summit Point — Henderson, Mason, and Self Dine with Mr. Butcher — Encounter with Jesse Scouts — Christmas, 1864, Spent with Friends — An Inci- dent of Camp on Rapidan — Lincoln Always Human 285 Chapter XXI. — Ordered to Swope's Depot — Return to Lower Valley — ^Raid on Stores in Sheperdstown — Capture of Train on Baltimore and Ohio Railroad — Poor Guild — Ruffians and Villains — Claymont — ^Washington and Alexander — Sheridan Joins Grant — Merritt's Report — General Grant Compared with Sheridan 294 Chapter XXII. — Hancock in Command at Winchester — Take off Pickets Around Charlestown — Doug Mason Wounded — Com- pany H Organized — Novelty of Election — Capture of Loudoun Rangers — Frank Helm Wounded — Origin of "Mosby's Men" — Mosby's Confederacy — How the Men Lived — Chaplain — My Home ^ 308 Chapter XXIII. — Companies D and H go on Raid in Fairfax — Betrayed — Fight at Arundels — Return to Mosby's Confede- racy — News of Lee's Surrender — Bull Run to Bull Run — ^Jack- 8on, Stuart, and Lee — Mosby Meets Chapman at Millwood — Truce Ended — Mosby's Farewell — Surrender of Chapman — Mosby and His Men Granted Terms of Lee's Army — Parole — Blue Ridge Mountain % 322 ILLUSTRATIONS. Page. Baylor, Robt. W Frontispiece. Aisquith. Bdw. M 17 Anderson, Isaac 23 Baylor, Richard C 29 Baylor, George 35 Baylor, Robt. W., Jr 41 Beall, Henry D 47 Bell, Daniel F 51 Berry, Charles J 57 Conklyn, James C 63 Conklyn, Chas. C 69 Crane, Charles L .^ 75 Crane, Joseph 81 Coleman, John 87 Chamberlain, Lucien 93 Cookus, Robert 99 Creaton, George 105 Craighill, Robert T Ill EJasterday, Jos. H 117 Easterday, John 123 English, Warren D 129 Frazier, Wm. C 135 Fry, Joe. D 141 Gallaher, James Nelson 147 Gallaher, Jno. Shannon 153 Grantham, Jno. S 159 Henderson, C. E 165 Howell, John 171 Hutchinson, Julian 177 Lackland, E. Morton and Wright, Samuel 183 Lewis, John 189 Lewis, Elisha 195 Locke, Wm 201 Manning, C.J 207 Manning, Wm. P 215 Manning, Frank J 221 Mason, Wm. S 227 McCluer, Jno 233 Rouss, Charles Broadway 239 Ranson, Tho. D 245 Ranson, B. B 251 /^ Illustrations, Page. Redman, Thomas 257 Btrlder, Isaac H 263 Sadler, L. L. and Aisquith, A. H 269 Tlmberlake, Seth M 275 TruBsell, Charles 281 Tearney, Leonldas 287 Thomson, Wm. S 293 Timberlake, Richard 299 Tlmberlake, S. D 305 Trussell, James T 313 TruBsell, Moses 319 Tlmberlake, Thos. W 327 Terrill, Philip 335 Terrlll, Jno. U 343 Washington, Bushrod C 359 Wysong, Robert L 367 Wilson, Wm. L 375 Yates, Jno. O 381 Young, Mason E 388 CHAPTER I. To every man upon this earth, Death cometh soon or late; And how can man die better Than facing fearful odds For the ashes of his fathers And the temples of his gods? Macaulap. In the summer of i860, after a three years' course at Dickinson College, I was honored as an alumnus of that institution, and the following October found me engaged in the peaceful occupation of assistant of R. Jaquelin Ambler, at the Clifton High School, near Markham, in Fauquier county, Virginia. The principal of that institution had been my preceptor, several years before, at the Charlestown Academy, and in that relation I had formed for him a warm attachment, and was consequently much gratified that my career in life should have its beginning under so estimable a gentleman, and was especially pleased that my horse should bear me company. Young men of the present day, who flourish in fine bug- gies, smoke cigars and cigarettes, part their hair in the middle, and occasionally greet '* inspiring bold John Barley Corn," can ill appreciate the pastimes and pleasures of the youth of a generation ago, when the horse, the gun, and the dog were the ne plus ultra of masculine aspirations. Those good old days of innocent, manly sports and recreations, are still valued as the brightest and happiest in life. Alas! of our little group, that often chased the squirrel from tree to tree and made the forests ring with volleys of musketry, or startled the partridge from its repose in the fields, but two are left to tell the tale. That acquaintance with the horse, [15] 1 6 Bull Run to Bull Run, which began in early childhood, soon ripened into affection, and the horse and rider were one in life and action. During my collegiate course the family conclave met, my pursuit in life was determined, and the law chosen. The program arranged was for me to spend a couple of years in teaching, and then attend the School of Law at the University of Virginia. But man proposes and God disposes. Taking up my abode in this rural retreat in Fauquier at the age of eighteen, the hours not occupied in school duties or recreation were devoted to the study of Blackstone, and some progress was being made in the rights of persons and rights of property when the 19th of April, 1861, rolled around, and Virginia's call to arms awakened me from my repose. The country around Markham was at that time settled by old and highly distinguished families, among whom may be named: Marshall, Ambler, Ashby, Stribling, Carter and others, and my stay among them was made as agreeable as it could be — for a youthful pedagogue. My temper, naturally irascible, was ill-suited to a pursuit and profession requiring a large modicum of patience and good nature; and the few months spent in this service was sufficient to implant in me a deep sympathy and commiseration for the toilers in the schools. The time spent in this community was a period full of import. The country was verging on a great civil war. The North and South were fast becoming estranged and designing politicians on either side fanned the flame of dis- cord. The Cotton States had seceded from the Union and formed a Confederacy, with its capital at Montgomery. The Star of the West had attempted to provision Fort Sumter, had been refused permission, and a collision had occurred between the forces of the United States and of the State of South Carolina. Virginia, reluctant to leave the Union, was by the proclamation of President Lincoln calling for 75,000 troops, forced to take sides, and natural affinity, education, and similarity of interests determined her choice. Bdw. M. Aiequith. i8 Bull Run to Bull Run, Soldiering in time of peace, had found little favor with me, and I had refrained from joining any military organiza- tion, though many, the outgrowth of the John Brown raid, were in existence in the vicinity of my home and present abode. But now that Virginia had taken her stand with her Southern sisters, and the two sections were in hostile array, I felt it my duty to lay down the plow and the pruning-hook and take up the sword and the battle-axe. Turner Ashby, who lived near Markham, was then captain of a volunteer company of cavalry, composed of men of that vicinity, and had received orders to report with his company at Harper's Ferry. The inclination to go could not be resisted, and, seeking my principal, I asked to be relieved from further duty under my contract with him. He was too patriotic to refuse such a request, and on the 19th of April, 1 861, I joined Ashby's company of horse, crossed the Blue Ridge, and reached Charlestown about 6 P. M. At Hall- town we overtook a portion of the Second Virginia regiment of infantry, under command of Colonel Allen, and with it took possession of Harper's Ferry that night. The long ride on the 19th had rather worsted my steed, and meeting many of my old school-mates and friends in the Botts Greys, Second Virginia regiment of infantry, with the permission of Captain Ashby, I changed my arm of service from cavalry to infantry, and joined the Botts Greys — a step soon afterwards much regretted. My first duties as a soldier were performed with the awkward squad on the plateau in the armory yard at Harper's Ferry, and in a short time I became a fairly well-drilled recruit. Troops continued to pour into Harper's Ferry from all parts of Virginia and were gradually organized into regi- ments, brigades, and divisions. The First Brigade was composed of the Second, Fourth, Fifth, and Twenty-seventh Virginia regiments, and shortly after its formation, the Thirty-third was added. Colonel Thomas J. Jackson, then little known in military circles, although a graduate of West Bull Run to Bull Run, ip Point and a soldier of some distinction in the Mexican War, was assigned to the command of our brigade. His appear- ance was not military or striking in any particular. He had rather a sleepy look, and was a very unimposing figure on horseback. He was a strict disciplinarian, and immediately went to work to prepare his brigade for the great work before it. For a couple of months we were marched and counter-marched, with no other ostensible purpose than to prove our metal and endurance. In June, 1861, our regiment was sent to Berkeley county, and established a camp opposite Williamsport, known as Camp Lee and especially noted as the scene of the incarcera- tion of Comrade Flagg for the trivial offence of shooting at a squirrel which appeared on a tree within the camp. His imprisonment seemed to us theii a terrible outrage on the rights and liberties of a freeman and an insult to the honor and dignity of a soldier, and served somewhat to dampen the ardor and enthusiasm of our patriotism. We were then, however, novices in military life and discipline, and knew little of what the future had in store for us. While in this camp, the Ordinance of Secession was voted on, and we juniors, although bearing arms and ready to battle for our State, were not permitted to cast our votes in settling this momentous question. This denial of the right of franchise to soldiers in the field was also esteemed an out- rage far worse than taxation without representation. In the latter part of June, the other regiments of our brigade joined our regiment and the brigade went into camp just south of Hainesville, near which place a portion of the Fifth regiment, on the 2d of July, had a little skirmish with Patterson's advance. Our regiment, though under artillery fire, can hardly be said to have smelt powder. On July 4th, General Johnston, who was in command of the Army of the Shenandoah, joined us at Darkesville with his whole command, and his little army was drawn up in line of battle to confront Patterson, who was then in posses- 20 Bull Run to Bull Run. sion of Martinsburg. This offer of battle was not accepted by Patterson, and after remaining in this position several days our army retired to Winchester, and preparations were hastily made to join Beauregard at Manassas, though our destination was not disclosed until we were well on our wav. On the 1 8th, our brigade marched to Berry's Ferr}% waded the Shenandoah, then up to the shoulders of the men, and reached Piedmont next morning, where we took the cars and arrived at Manassas on the evening of the 19th. At Piedmont, when the train pulled up, and orders were given to board, there was one coach a little superior to the others (which were principally box-cars and gondolas), and the Botts Greys seeing it, were soon snugly seated within; when to our surprise, Sandy Pendleton, then on General Johnston's staff, entered and ordered us to vacate, saying that was the officers' coach. The boys, saying they were as good as the officers, refused to vacate, and after some idle threats Pendle- ton disappeared, and the coach was retained. On the 20th, our brigade went into line in front of McDowell, near Mitchell's Ford, on Bull Run, close to the battle-field of the i8th. On the morning of the 21st, the brigade was ordered to the left of our army to reinforce our troops then engaged with McDowell's advance. We moved into line southeast of the Henry house, on a little crest, in front of a pine thicket. The battle was then raging and the Confederates were retiring. As the dead and wounded were carried past, we realized for the first time the horrors of battle. Company C, commanded by Captain Nelson, was on the left of our regiment, the Botts Greys, Company G, was next in line to Company C, and as the men in the companies fell into line according to size, my place was on the extreme left of Company G, next to Tom Burnett, our fourth corporal, and adjoining the right of Company C. Captain Nelson was at the right of his company, and near him were the Ran- dolphs, Grubbs, Cooke, and others of large stature. On the Bull Run to Bull Run. 21 left of Company C was tlie Thirty-third regiment of our brigade, the Fourth, Fifth, and Twenty-seventh being on the right. The enemy's artillery shelled us in this position for an hour or more, doing little damage. During this cannonade I remember General Beauregard riding in our front and the rousing cheer we gave him. Sam Wright broke ranks, ran forward and shook his hand. This was our first view of Beauregard, and his appearance is still indelibly impressed on my mind. About 2 P. M. I heard small-arms on our left, and turning in that direction, saw the Thirty-third regiment engaging the enemy. I recollect their first volley and how unfavorably it affected me. It was apparently made with guns raised at an angle of forty-five degrees, and I was fully assured that their bullets would not hit the Yankees, unless they were nearer heaven than they were generally located by our people. To my great astonishment and admiration, however, I soon saw these same men gallantly charging a battery in their front, and my spirits rose. Our men clamored to go forward to assist them, but our officers refused permis- sion, and the golden opportunity was accordingly lost. The Thirty-third took the battery, but not being reinforced, was forced to fall back in some disorder, which resulted in leaving the left of our regiment exposed to an enfilading fire, and the enemy soon took advantage of the situation and opened on Companies C and G at short range. Under this galling fire, with some of our officers shouting to the men, ** don't fire; they are friends," our men were some- what confused, but soon realizing the true situation, briskly returned the enemy's fire with telling effect. I have since that time been in many engagements, yet have never seen men act as coolly and boldly under such disadvantageous circumstances as our men did on that occasion. Companies C and G, though suffering heavily, were unflinching and holding their own against largely superior numbers when the order was given to fall back and form a new line. This 22 Bull Run to Bull Run. was done, no doubt, to present a front to the foe now out- flanking us. It was, however, an unfortunate move. Few men can retire calmly under a galling fire, and the execution of this order resulted in stampeding some good soldiers, but the large majority re-formed and again advanced, and our right at the same time moving forward, the enemy was pressed back and soon in flight. The forward movement of our brigade, sustained by the attack of a portion of Gen. Kirby Smith's command, produced this favorable result. We had now received our baptism of fire and the brigade was christened by the dying words of General Bee, '' Stonewall," a name which it bore through the four years' conflict and handed down to posterity untarnished. The victory was decisive. General Scott wired McClellan : **After fairly beating the enemy and taking three of his batteries, a panic seized McDowell's army and it is in full retreat on the Potomac. A most unaccountable transforma- tion into a mob of a finely appointed and admirably led army." B. S. Alexander, a captain of engineers, wired General Scott : '* General McDowell's army in full retreat through Cen- treville. The day is lost. Save Washington and the remnant of this army. General McDowell is doing all he can to cover the retreat. Colonel Miles is forming for that purpose. He was in reserve at Centreville. The routed troops will not re-form." The report of General McDowell, then at Fairfax Court- house, on his retreat, says : '* The men having thrown aw^ay their haversacks in battle and left them behind, they are without food: have eaten nothing since breakfast. We are without artillery ammuni- tion. The larger part of the men are a confused mob, en- tirely demoralized. It was the opinion of all the commanders that no stand could be made this side of the Potomac. We will, however, make the attempt at Fairfax Courthouse. 24 Bull Run to Bull Run. From a prisoner we learn that 20,000 from Johnston joined last night, and they will march on us to-night/' And in his report, written at Arlington, on August 4th, two weeks after the battle, he says : " From the late reports it will be seen that our killed amounted to 19 officers and 462 non-commissioned officers and men, and our wounded to 64 officers and 947 non-com- missioned officers and privates. The returns of the missing are very inaccurate, the men supposed to be missing having fallen into other regiments and gone to Washington — many of the Zouaves to Nezv York,'' General V Johnston, in his report of the battle, says: '' Ourfvictory was as complete as one gained by infantry and artillery can be. An adequate force of cavalry would have made it decisive. It is due, under Almighty God, to the skill and^resolutipn of General Beauregard, the admirable conduct of Generals Bee, E. K. Smith, and Jackson, and of Colonels (commanding brigades) Evans, Cocke, Early, and Elzey, and the courage and unyielding firmness of our patriotic volunteers. The admirable character of our troops is incontestably proved by the results of this battle, especially when it is remembered that little more than 6,000 men of the Army of the Shenandoah with 16 guns, and less than 2,000 of that of the Potomac with six guns, for fully five hours successfully resisted 35,000 United States troops with powerful artillery and a superior force of regular cavalry. The loss of the Army of the Potomac was 108 killed, 510 wounded, and 12 missing. That of the Army of the Shenan- doah was 270 killed, 979 wounded, and 18 missing. Twenty- eight pieces of artillery, about 5,000 muskets, and nearly 500,000 cartridges, a garrison flag and ten colors, were cap- tured on the field or in the pursuit. Besides these, we captured 64 artillery horses with their harness, 26 wagons and much camp equipage, clothing and other property abandoned in their flight. We captured also about 1,600 prisoners." w* Bull Run to Bull Run, 25 As will appear from the foregoing reports, the rout was complete, and only a small portion of our forces was actually engaged. The brunt of the day was borne by the Seventh and Eighth Georgia, the Fourth Alabama, the Second and Eleventh Mississippi, the Sixth North Carolina, Hampton's Legion, and Jackson's Brigade — about three-fourths of the total loss on our side being suffered by these commands. Though the rout of the Federal army was complete, the fruits of the victory were lost by poor generalship. With fully 10,000 men who had not been engaged favorably located on our right, where the distance to Centreville was less than it was from the battle-field, no effort was made to intercept the flying foe. It was reported and currently believed that Jackson had been refused permission to pursue with his brigade. With President Davis, Generals Johnston and Beauregard on the field, eye-witnesses of the enemy's dis- comfiture and utter demoralization, their strange conduct cannot be explained or their sin of omission condoned. It has been truly said that the Army of Northern Virginia possessed only one general who reaped the proper fruits of victory— his name was Stonewall Jackson. Having routed the enemy, our army quietly rested on its arms and patiently waited until our opponent, fully rallied from discomfiture, recruited and organized a larger and better-equipped force, and again advanced to give us battle. Such folly on our part seems almost criminal. With an Alexander, a Napoleon, or a Von Moltke for a leader, the war would have been of short duration, and the success of our arms assured. Company G, Botts Greys, lost in this battle, Butler, Page, and Briscoe killed, and Lieutenant English and Privates Ais- quith, W. P. Manning, Seth and Joe Timl)erlake, Wiltshire, Painter, Wright, and Middlecoff wounded. CHAPTER 11. ** All quiet along the Potomac," they say. Except now and then a stray picket Is shot, as he walks on his beat, to and fro. By a rifleman hid in the thicket. 'Tis nothing; a private or two, now and then, Will not count in the news of the battle: Not an officer lost— only one of the men. Moaning out, all alone, the death-rattle. Thaddeus Oliver. The day after the Manassas fight, our brigade went into camp just east of Centreville (known as *' Camp Harman "), where it remained for several months, now and then varying the monotony of camp life by picket duty in the vicinity of Falls Church and Munson's Hill. It was on one of these occasions, September 21st, that our comrade, Lawrence Lee Berry, was killed, on picket post. The situation the night preceding his death is vividly impressed on my mind. Our line of pickets and the enemy's were in close proximity, and firing between them was frequent. Two of my comrades and myself were assigned a post at the edge of a woods, about three hundred yards from the enemy's line, and a shot at each other was freely indulged, without much effect, as we had tree fortifications for shelter. So accurate, however, was the enemy's aim, that they barked the trees that pro- tected us. There was a lull in the firing at nightfall, but our eyes and ears were both vigilant and our imaginations at high tension. In media noctc, as Julius Caesar would say, strange noises were heard around our position, resembling footsteps of men in the leaves, and well remembered is the comforting picture presented by the senior of our post to our excited minds of our next day's march to the old Capitol prison — the greatest of horrors to the soldiers at that period [26] Bull Riin to Bull Run. 2/ of the war. Just as day broke, however, the enemy's attack was made on the post to our left, held by Judge Green, Law- rence Berry, and Joe Sherrard. In the attack Berry was killed, but Green and Sherrard escaped unhurt. Green and Sherrard were accused of enabling the enemy to locate their station by a loud political discussion on the right of secession had by them during the night, but both indignantly denied the grave accusation. The post was soon retaken by our reserve and the line re-established. General Jackson, whose star was now in the ascendant, was made a major-general in the latter part of October and assigned to duty in the Shenandoah Valley Department, with headquarters at Winchester. A few days thereafter he took leave of his old brigade, in the following touching and thrill- ing words: '* I am not here to make a speech, but simply to say fare- well. I first met you at Harper's Ferry in the commence- ment of this war, and I cannot take leave of you without giving expression to my admiration of your conduct from that day to this — whether on the march, in the bivouac, in the tented field, or on the bloody plains of Manassas, where you gained the w^ell-deserved reputation of having decided the fate of the battle. Throughout the broad extent of country over which you have marched, by your respect for the rights and the property of citizens, you have shown that you were soldiers — not only to defend, but able and willing both to defend and i)rotect. Vou have already gained a brilliant and deservedly high reputation throughout the army of the whole Confederacv, and I trust in the future, bv vour deeds on the field, and by the assistance of the same kind Providence who has heretofore favored our cause, vou will gain more victories, and add additional luster to the reputa- tion you now enjoy. You have already gained a proud posi- tion in the future history of this our Second War for Inde- pendence. I shall look with great anxiety to your future 28 Bull Run to Bull Run, movements, and I trust whenever I shall hear of the First Brigade on the field of battle, it will be of still nobler deeds achieved and higher reputation won/' Then, overcome with emotion, he paused as if to conquer his own feelings, and after a few moments' silence, which in itself was eloquence, he concluded with much warmth and feeling : '' Irr the Army of the Shenandoah you were the First Brigade! In the Army of the Potomac you were the First Brigade! In the Second corps of the army you are the First Brigade! You are the First Brigade in the afifections of your General ! And I hope, by your future deeds and bearing, you will be handed down to posterity as the First Brigade in this our Second War for Independence. Farewell ! '' The applause that greeted these words evinced J;he hold the General had already obtained in the afifections of his brigade, and the tears that streamed down the sunburnt cheeks of that hardy soldiery were more eloquent than a thousand tongues in Assuring him of its depth and sincerity. Our brigade parted with its General in sorrow, but the separation was happily not of long duration. About the middle of November we were ordered to Winchester to report to General Jackson, and the announcement was received with great joy and delight. As the homes of our men were in the Valley, the expectation and anticipated pleasure of meeting the loved ones added zeal to our joy. We took cars at Manassas and were conveyed to Strasburg, from which place the brigade footed it through a drenching rain to Kernstown and was ordered into camp there. Many of us having a longing desire to enter Winchester and greet our many friends and acquaintances, struck out for that destination, but were halted by the militia, who had a circle of pickets around the town, with strict orders not to allow the regulars to pass. The regulars held the militia in great contempt, and were little disposed to acquiesce in Richard O. Baylor. JO Bull Run to Bull Run. their orders, but, preferring peace to war with them, devised ways and means to evade and avoid them. Some flanked the posts, some deceived them with forged passes from Gen- eral Jackson; but it was left to the ingenuity of our comrade Jim Frazier to obtain for us a wholesale entrance. He elected himself captain of the flankers, and ordering us to fall in line, marched us up to the militia post in military style and order and halted us. Frazier then stepped up to the officer of the picket guard and saluting, informed him that General Jackson had ordered him to proceed to Winchester with his company and arrest members of our brigade found there without leave. His authority, backed by force, was at once recognized and we marched through, the militia f>osts giving the usual military salute — a part of a soldier's tactics and education in which they especially excelled. Out of sight of the post, we broke ranks, and each found friends and a comfortable resting place in hospitable old Winchester. I think it safe to say that fully half of the First Brigade visited Winchester that night. On December 4th, our brigade moved into camp near Stephenson's Depot, and Brigadier-General Garnett (a cousin of mine) was assigned to its command, and a review was had to show him what sort of looking fellows we were. On the 15th, General Jackson started us on what was generally termed the " dam trip," the object of which was to destroy dam No. 5 on the Potomac and cripple the Chesa- peake and Ohio canal. The undertaking was only partially successful, and we returned to camp at Stephenson's. The monotony of camp life was ill-suited to our juvenile tempera- ments and Winchester had many attractions we longed to enjoy. Why General Jackson had banished the young volunteers to this rural retreat and hard-tack diet, while the old seedy militia had comfortable quarters in the city and feasted on the best in the market, we could not easily under- stand, and were therefore inclined to rebel against such an unjust and arbitrary restriction, and daily devised schemes to Bull Run to Bull Rim, ji overcome it. The militia guards seemed to have no other occupation but that of opposing our entrance. We daily out- witted them and our oflficers, however, and gained admission. I remember on one occasion several of our company, Com- rade Flagg among the number, obtaining permission to visit Winchester on a Sabbath day to attend church and not returning for a week. On reporting to camp, each expected a berth in the guard-house and extra duty as a punishment for our offence; but Flagg was equal to the occasion, and when our captain demanded to know why we had absented ourselves without leave, as he had only given us permission to attend church, " Yes," says Flagg, " but when we got there we found it was a ' protracted ' meeting and lasted all the week/' The captain was put in good humor and all escaped punishment. On another occasion I remember approaching the militia pickets without passes. Comrade Flagg acting the part of a lunatic and we as his guard taking him to jail. The pickets for a while refused us passage, but just then our lunatic made such violent attacks and demonstrations on the pickets, that they, fearing great bodily harm, were only too glad to get rid of him and passed us through. On the 1st of January, 1862, General Jackson moved with his whole force in the direction of Berkeley Springs. The morning was fair, bright, mild, and beautiful; about sun- down, however, a northwester sprang up, and the night was very cold. To add to our discomfort, we had left our over- coats and blankets in our company wagons, and they failed to reach us. Our company laid down in a pile of leaves, hog- fashion, and tried to rest, but failed, as the night was too cold. Early next morning Sam Wright and myself flanked out to a little mountain hut to get something to eat, and only found buckwheat cakes and bacon gravy — a meal remembered by me still as the most enjoyable of my life. The weather grew colder and colder as we journeyed for- ward. On the 4th, after a little brush with our advance, the S2 Bull Run to Bull Run. enemy retreated, and Berkeley Springs was entered, and I found comfortable lodging with my greatuncle, John Strother, who, although a strong Union man in sentiment, did the kinsman's part to me and other relatives in our brigade. I was met at the door at Uncle John's by his grand- daughter, then a miss in her teens, and was kindly greeted and welcomed by her, notwithstanding the fact that the entrance of our troops had occasioned the flight of her father, then an oflficer in the Federal army. Uncle John had been a soldier in the War of 1812, held the Stars and Stripes in great reverence and affection; was an honest, earnest opponent of secession, and did not hesitate to proclaim his sentiments and tell us he believed we were in the wrong. " Yet," said he, *' I am proud to find you fighting for what you believe to be right." His faith was so strong and so boldly asserted that it commanded the highest respect and admiration. In the fall of 1861, he had been arrested by some of Ashby's cavalry as a dangerous enemy to our cause, and retained in Winchester a week or more under guard of a cavalryman, but not in confinement. His many friends in that place soon procured his release and he returned home. When we occupied Berkeley Springs he met and entertained his guard as his guest, telling us how kind and considerate the man had been of his welfare while he was a prisoner at Winchester. On the 6th, our regiment moved opposite Hancock, where we were drawn up in line to support Captain Bragg's artillery, a twenty-four-pound gun, which opened on Han- cock and served to scatter the enemy congregated there, if it did no further execution. After the firing ceased, we bivouacked for the night and awoke in the morning with a foot or more of snow on us. On the 8th, we moved back near Berkeley Springs and encamped for the night in the snow. Albert Hooff and myself celebrated Jackson's day with a personal encounter, in which the advantage was with me in the outset, but as the tide was turning, fortunately for me, friends separated us. Bull Run to Bull Run, 55 On the 9th, we began our retreat to Unger's Store. The day was bitter cold, and the horses and men tramped the snow until it became slippery as ice, and it was difficult for man or beast to stand up. Our march somewhat resembled Napoleon's from Moscow. Reaching Unger's Store, we turned to the right and moved to Romney, where the brigade remained several days and fed on Yankee rations abandoned by the enemy in their hasty retreat. With several of our company, I was posted at the bridge on the Potomac on the road to Moorefield, near the house of Mr. Gibson, whose family was exceedingly kind and considerate of our com- fort. After holding this position against the northwest wind for several days, we were called in, and with our brigade ordered back to Winchester. The shout that went up from the brigade when we learned this, evinced as much heart as lungs, for we were heartily weary of this midwinter tramp without any spoils and with much hardship and discomfort. As our brigade was preparing to start. Jack Terrill and myself determined to precede the brigade and by a forced march reach Winchester in one day and rest there in comfortable quarters until our regiment should arrive. With knapsack on our back, gun on our shoulder, and cartridge-box at our side, toiling up and down the hills, we walked the forty miles, reaching Winchester about 10 P. M., with legs so tired we could not sleep, though we had '' all the means and ap- pliances to boot." Our brigade came in on the third day after leaving Romney and again went into camp near Stephenson's, where it remained until Banks's force advanced up the Valley. About the first of March John Terrill, Charlie Manning, and myself succeeded in obtaining transfers from the infantry to the cavalry, and joined a company raised by my father in the summer of 1861, and attached to Ashby's command. Horses were soon procured, and we reported for duty to this com- pany, then stationed at Berryville, with Banks's army at 3 24 Bull Run to Bull Run. Charlestown. On horseback, I felt like a new man, and con- templated the war from a much more favorable standpoint. As Banks advanced, Jackson retreated up the Valley, Ashby's cavalry bringing up the rear and having daily en- counters with the enemy's advance. General Banks, after reaching Strasburg, soon retired to Winchester, and he and the greater part of his force passed over the Blue Ridge and joined Pope, leaving Shields, with about 10,000 men, at Winchester. Ashby, who was ever on the alert, followed the retiring foe, constantly reporting the situation to Jackson, who, being desirous of relieving, as far as possible, Johnston's situation at Richmond by compelling the enemy to keep a strong force in the Valley, determined to advance and attack Shields at Winchester. General Ashby, on the evening of the 22d, passed the outpost of Shields's army, and made a brisk attack just south of Winchester, in which General Shields was wounded. On the 23(1, General Jackson having arrived, dis- positions for an attack were immediately made. The main assault was made west of the turnpike, on the enemy's right, and for several hours an animated contest was maintained. Jackson had in this engagement about 3,000 men, while Shields opposed him with 10,000. A most favorable opportunity was afiforded me of viewing this engagement, and the day was highly favorable to our side until about 5 P. M. Our men early in the contest gained a stone wall, while the enemv's line was about one hundred yards distant, on a little slope in a piece of woodland. Regi- ment after regiment of the enemy was pressed forward in the attempt to dislodge our men from this position, until their line appeared to be twenty deep and a splendid target for our men. Both sides maintained their respective positions for about three hours, when the Federal trocps became so mixed and confused that all organization was lost and the men were wavering. A forward movement at this crisis would have given us the day, but, unfortunately, ^ i George E ay lor. 36 Bull Run to Bull Run. the ammunition on our side was exhausted, and the m^n were ordered to retire — a move which gave the enemy such courage that they rallied and pressed forward, and the day was lost. In the beginning of this fight, a call was made • for twenty men from our company to report to General Jackson. At this time a Federal batter}' a short distance off was pouring a vigorous fire into our ranks. When the call was made, it was accompanied with the report that Jackson wanted the men to charge that battery, and volunteers from the company were slow in responding. At this juncture, Charlie Crane, a youth then about sixteen, rode forward, saying, " Come on, boys, we have but one time to die," took his place in the detachment, and, others following his example, the number was soon complete. Great was our relief, however, when on reporting to General Jackson, we were directed by him to take position on his extreme left and report any attempt of the enemy to outflank him. Position was taken by our squad in advance of our left and beyond the enemy's right, and while out of the heat of the conflict, we had full view of all movements on both side? We fell back to Xewtown for the night. CHAPTER III. Then, farewell, home! and farewell, friends! Adieu each tender tie! Resolved we mingle in the tide. Where charging squadrons furious ride. To conquer or to die. 8€0tt. After the battle of Kemstown, Banks returned to the Valley and Jackson's forces retired slowly up the Valley, Ashby with his cavalry covering the rear and fighting the enemy's advance at every favorable opportunity along the route. It was on this retreat, just south of Mount Jackson, that Ashby lost his snow-white horse, the pride of his heart, and narrowly escaped capture himself. When Harrisonburg was entered Jackson turned to the left and took the road to Conrad's Store, which was reached on the 19th of April, and his forces went into camp. It was here, on the 21st day of April, 1862, that the '' Baylor Light Horse," Company B, Twelfth Virginia Cavalry, was organ- ized. Prior to that time the company was comparatively small, had no regular organization, and, besides the captain, no other commissioned officer. The new organization was composed largely of men who had enlisted at the outbreak of the war and served one year in the ranks of the Second Virginia Regiment of Infantry, in the famous Stonewall Brigade. Its members were principally sons of farmers of Jefiferson county, Virginia, mere school-boys, who had not attained their majority or completed their education. As now remembered, there were only three married men in the company. The Orderly Sergeant, Seth Timberlake, a brother-in-law of Charles Broadway Rouss, was a widower, and called by the boys, " Uncle Seth,'' on account of his [37] S8 Bull Run to Bull Run, seniority, though he was then quite a young man. In its ranks were youths who to-day stand in the front in various occupations of civil life. There was ex-Postmaster-General William L. Wilson; Charles Broadway Rouss, the merchant prince and philanthropist, of New York; Charles Henderson, vice-president and general manager of the Reading railroad; Hon. W. D. English, of California; Thomas D. Ransom, a prominent lawyer of the Staunton Bar; William L. Thomson, a leading member of the Atlanta Bar; H. D. Beall, of the Baltimore Sun; Julian Hutchinson, a capitalist and member of the City Council of Atlanta; Timberlakes, eight in number, all gallant soldiers; Washingtons, Mannings, Terrills, Cranes, Aisquiths, Gallahers, Alexanders, Craighill, Frazier, Mason, Sadler, Strider, McClure, Howell, Hunter, Lackland, Seldon, Yates, and many others whose names, in Virginia, suggest pride, prowess, and parentage. Robert W. Baylor was chosen captain ; Milton Rouss, first lieutenant; George Baylor, second lieutenant; and B. C. Washington (afterwards for gallant conduct) was made third lieutenant. No arms or equipments wxre furnished the com- pany by the Confederate Government, the men ow^ned their horses, and Uncle Sam very kindly and very soon provided us the very best pistols, sabers, saddles and bridles he had in stock. Everything but ourselves was branded U. S. For the carbine we had no liking and no use. Early in the con- flict we recognized the fact that the Federal officer was our equal, and that our chief strength and superiority lay in our rank and file. If our opponents were fought at long range, the officers had the opportunity to bring to their aid dis- cipline and authority over the actions and conduct of their men; when in close contact, they lost control, and their men, lacking individuality, became as sheep without a shepherd; while with us, every private was a general and needed no guidance or direction from his officer. In the camp and in the field the Confederate soldier was ruled by affection and example, and was treated as an equal. Especially was this Bull Run to Bull Run, jp the case in our company, where we bore the relation of brother, cousin, school-mate, neighbor, and friend. On the 27th, the company was taken on a scout to McGaheysville. After entering the town, a picket was placed on the western limit and the reserve posted just east of the town. About an hour after our arrival our picket was driven in by a company charge of the enemy's cavalry. The reserve was quickly mounted and a counter-charge ordered, and the enemy's cavalry repulsed and driven through the town to a point about a half-mile beyond, when their reserve opened with canister, and we in turn were forced to retreat. In this charge my father was severely wounded and C. H. Isloer was taken prisoner. My brother Richard made a narrow escape from capture. When the enemy opened with artillery, Richard's horse became unmanageable, and, in plunging, broke the saddle-girth and landed him in the road. Entering a house near by, he ran out of the back door, jumped into a chicken-coop and got up on the roost. This would have been a very unsafe proceeding after sunset, as the chickens usually occupy the roost after that hour and it would have been a certain point of inspection by Federal soldiers. The Yankees made diligent search for him and even looked into the coop, but not turning their gaze upward, failed to find him. As soon as the enemy left, he came out of his hiding-place and made his way back to the company. Though my father was seriously, and at the time supposed to be mortally wounded, we succeeded in bringing him oflf safely and back to camp. He never sufficiently recovered to enter active service again, and Lieutenant Rouss took com- mand of the company. The enemy's force in this skirmish was composed of two regiments of infantry, two companies of cavalry, and a battery of artillery, under the command of General Hatch, while our force was about 40 men. The enemy's loss was two killed and three wounded. Our loss, one wounded and one prisoner. 40 Bull Run to Bull Run, General Banks, in his report to the Secretary of War, says : " General Hatch made a reconnorsance in force yesterday. Two of our men were wounded, one mortally. Five of the enemy were killed and five wounded in the skirmish." Shortly after this skirmish, Jackson commenced the execu- tion of his plan to clear the Valley of the Federal troops. His small force being reinforced with Ewell's Division, he left Ewell at Conrad's Store, moved swiftly through Staunton, united his force with that of General Edward Johnson, and on the 8th of May, at McDowell, routed Milroy's command. Then, turning back to the Valley, he united his force with Eweirs at New Market, Banks having in the mean time fallen back to Strasburg. From New Market, Jackson crossed the mountains to Luray and moved down the Front Royal road, leaving only four companies of cavalry in the Shenandoah Valley (our company among the number) to watch the enemy's movements in that quarter. Our little command proceeded cautiously down the Valley to Woodstock, when Jackson's guns were heard at Front Royal. Being assured Jackson would drive Banks before him, we apj)roached Strasburg just as Jackson was striking the enemy at Middletown. Several thousand Federal troops were cut oflf at Strasburg and were ready to surrender, if any considerable force had presented itself, but our little cavalry band was too small and an attack deemed imprudent. No part of Jackson's command turning their attention to these Federal troops, on the night of the 24th they escaped through the mountains westward. On the morning of the 25th, our company entered Strasburg, picked up some straggling prisoners, captured many stores, and then joined Jackson near Winchester. After Banks's defeat at that point, the company was ordered in the direction of Charlestown, which place we entered the day following, finding a considerable amount of abandoned stores, but as we had no means of removing them, the enemy Bobt. W. Baylor, Jr. ^2 Bull Rim to Bull Run. returned the next day, drove us out, and destroyed them. As these stores were burning. General Winder, with the Stone- wall Brigade, put in an appearance, and the enemy hastily retreated. On this occasion the market-house and railroad station were destroyed by the enemy. General Winder moved with his brigade to the vicinity of Harper's Ferry^.but on the 30th received orders to retire up the Valley with infantry and cavalry, which order was executed, the cavalry reaching Strasburg on the 31st, where we found General Jackson engaged with Fremont's advance on the Wardensville road. On June ist, all of Jackson's troops having reached Stras- burg, he began the famous retreat up the Valley with Fre- mont directly in his rear and Shields moving up the Luray Valley. From every hilltop, Ashby opened with his artillery on the advancing foe, and daily encounters took place be- tw^een his command and the advance of the enemy, so delay- ing its movements that Jackson was enabled to save all his prisoners and captured stores. At a point about four miles southeast of Harrisonburg the enemy was so much emboldened that the First New Jersey Cavalry, under Sir Percy Wyndhafn, boldly charged into Ashby's command, and after a brisk combat, he and sixty- three of his men were successfully bagged and some thirty killed and wounded. Sir Percy was much chagrined at being dubbed a Yankee by our boys. He had made many boasts that he would soon capture Ashby, and the remem- brance of these boasts only deepened his sense of humilia- tion. But Ashby did not long enjoy the triumph of the morning. On the afternoon of the 6th, while in charge of two regiments of infantry, detached and sent to his com- mand, leading an attack on the enemy's infantry advance, his horse was shot and he himself soon after killed. Ashby was an ideal cavalryman — bold, dashing, cour- ageous, undaunted, and pure and stainless in life. He was the idol of the people of the Valley, and probably no one else ever enjoyed so much of their love and admiration. He Bull Run to Bull Run, 4^ was of the true type of chivalry, and to know him was to love and esteem him. His men idolized him, and no word of reproach ever fell from their lips. His great fault, if indeed it can be called a fault, was his reckless exposure of himself, in order to shield and protect his men. On the 8th, was fought the battle of Cross Keys, and Fremont was repulsed with heavy loss. On the next day. Shields was attacked near Port Republic^ and after a spirited fight, routed, with the loss of eight guns and 1,500 prisoners, and he and Fremont raced down the Valley faster than they had raced up. To Shields, defeat must have been a great blow, coming just two days after his celebrated order of the 7th, which \\\\\ be interesting at this point* Columbia Bridge, Va., June 7th, 2 A. M. Brigadier-General Carroll, Comd'g Fourth Brigade, Conrad's Store: Such is my anxiety that I rise from my bed to write to you. Captain Keily, who will hand you this, has just returned from New Market. The enemy passed New Market on the 5th, Blencker's Division, on the 6th, in pursuit. The enemy has flung away everything; knapsacks and their stragglers fill the mountains. They only need a movement on the flank to panic-strike them, and break them into fragments. No man has had such a chance since the war commenced. Few men ever had such a chance. You are in 30 miles of a broken, retreating enemy, who still hangs together. Ten thousand Germans are on his rear, who han^ on like bull- dogs. You have only to throw yourself down on Waynes- borough before him and your cavalry will capture them by the thousands, seize his train, and abundant supplies; and yet there is a strange want of enthusiasm in the command. The enemy is in retreat right before you. The men who follow him have no train — live by the way. This command can throw itself upon its flank, and yet I am pestered about shoes and stockings and clothing by officers like Colonel Gavin. Why, if the clothing was here, there is no time to get it. Take 5,000 of the enemy prisoners; then there will be 14 Bull Run to Bull Run. time to clothe you. Some of the officers are discouraging their men, instead of putting heart into them. Officers who do so at this time are not worthy of their places. The Ger- mans are not half as well off as you are, yet they hang on the enemy without respite. The enemy insulted the capital of your country; he is in retreat; you are in a day and a half of him, and you hesitate. I don't mean you personally, but some of your officers and men. This would be a disgrace. Can this be my boasted Shields's division? If an officer hesi- tates, send him back. Go on with the men. James Shields, Commanding Division. When Shields's boasted division started back from Port Republic, no further complaint was made about shoes and clothing, and the bombastic general himself was much like that King of Britain that never smiled again. Those hesi- tating men, upbraided so severely, knew Jackson better than Shields, or had a premonition of coming events and were averse to stirring up this hornets' nest. If General Shields had remembered the message of the King of Israel to Ben-hadad, King of Syria : *' Let not him that girdeth on his harness boast himself as he that putteth it off," not vaunted his deeds of to-morrow, he might have lessened the abase- ment and humiliation of defeat. A few days after these engagements, Jackson crossed the mountain and united his force with Johnston's in front of Richmond, leaving Company B in the Valley to watch the movements of the enemy in that department. Being sole guardians of the Shenandoah Valley, we felt a just pride in the trust reposed in us, and determined to show ourselves worthy of the confidence of our commander. After the departure of the army, an outpost was established at McGa- heysville, with pickets on the road to Luray and Harrison- burg, and we made frequent scouts in the direction of these points to ascertain the location of Fremont and Shields. As the enemy moved down the Luray and Shenandoah valleys, our posts were advanced. i^^ Bull Run to Bull Run, 45 On the loth of August, with 30 men, I started on a scout to Luray, expecting to fixid a small force of the enemy in possession of the town, but on reaching there, found the enemy had moved east that morning, and a few stragglers were captured. The night was spent in . Luray with our friends, and an incident of the night had much to do with determining the movements and success of the following day. Hospitable entertainment was accorded me that evening at the home of the Jordans, while Henry Beall and some others of the company had comfortable quarters at the Lion- bergers. Mr. Lionberger was then quite an old gentleman, and having expressed in the presence of Beall a desire to see the officer commanding the company, Beall kindly oflfered to go over to the Jordans and introduce him. He came, he saw, and was sorely disappointed. At that time I was a mere stripling boy, just twenty years of age, weighing one hundred pounds, and not very attractive or warlike in appearance. Mr. Lionberger returned home much disgusted, and so expressed himself to Beall, saying, '' What can you expect to accomplish with that stripling for a leader? '' Beall, like a true friend, reported his remark to me, and my blood boiled in my veins, but I said nothing — only thought. The next morning, with 25 men, I started on the road to Front Royal, inwardly resolved to do or die. No one knew how desperate the old gentleman's disparaging remarks had made me. We inquired along the route as to the enemy's position, but failed to elicit any further information than that it occupied Front Royal. About noon of the nth, we had reached the vicinity of that town, but had encountered no foe. About one-half mile south of the place, however, we came suddenly upon the enemy's cavalry picket-post, and a charge was immediately ordered. Recklessly we dashed into the town, capturing the cavalry picket reserve, and finding the town occupied by a large infantry force. Our men were soon scattered, pursuing fleeing Yankees in every direction. Noticing a company forming in front of the hotel, with about 46 Bull Run to Bull Run. 40 men in line, I called Henry Beall and Charlie Crane to my assistance, dashed in among them, and drawing my pistol on the officer in command, demanded a surrender. He turned to his men and commanded them to ground arms — an order quickly obeyed. Securing the officer, I directed the men to march out by the Luray road. Just then another officer appeared on the scene, and he, too, was made prisoner. General Redden, who was in command of the force, made his escape on a cart-horse. Our handful of men were soon over- whelmed with prisoners, and I was satisfied we must beat a hasty retreat. In looking up our boys and getting them together, I found John Terrill and Bob North in among the infantry tents, slashing them with their sabers and ordering out the men. Our situation was critical indeed, and, gather- ing up as many of the prisoners as could hastily be gotten together, our retreat was begun. We left Front Royal with about 300 prisoners, most of them infantrymen, and among them a major and two captains. When about a mile south of town, the enemy's cavalry, about 300 strong, appeared in our rear. About 15 horses had been captured from the enemy. On these, prisoners were mounted, and with residue on foot, in charge of 15 men, were started off at a rapid pace towards Luray, while with 10 men I undertook to cover the retreat. The enemy was held in check for some time, but finally broke our little rear-guard and succeeded in releasing the foot prisoners, but those on horseback were brought off safely. In a running fight of five miles, with counter-charges, we kept this body of cavalry sufficiently in check to permit the mounted prisoners and guards to keep at a safe distance from recapture. In one of the enemy's charges Baker, of our company, was captured, a counter-charge was ordered and Baker released. In this engagement George Timberlake was slightly wounded, Orderly-Sergeant Seth Timberlake, known as the fighting sergeant, had his horse killed, and my horse was wounded in shoulder and neck, and, though losing blood, Henry D. Beall. 4^ Bull Run to Bull Run, bore me safely through the conflict. The enemy's loss was lo killed and wounded, and two officers and 13 men prisoners. These officers were Captains Darrell and Baker, of the Third Delaware regiment. After following us about five miles, the enemy abandoned the pursuit, and our little band returned to Luray, camping near that place for the night. Comrade Beall relates that on our retreat from Front Royal he discovered Tustin Starry standing on a hill over- looking the town, having failed to follow the company in its charge, and upbraiding him for his shameful conduct, asked him " why he did not go.'' To which he coolly replied, " I went as far as I thought it was prudent." General White, in his report of this affair to General Pope, says : '' The enemy's cavalry, some 25 strong, dashed into Front Royal yesterday, and captured two captains on pro- vost-marshal duty. They surprised our picket and guards. Our cavalry pursued and captured one prisoner." On August 4th, the Army Record shows General Redden had at Front Royal the Third Delaware regiment, over 800 strong, 400 cavalry, and a battery of artillery. General Banks had wired him on that day, " had sent him Captain Munther, an engineer, to arrange his ifortifications, but that the enemy near him w^ere not numerous, there are no rebel troops in the Valley, and only guerrillas in your vicinity. If you are fortified they will not attack you at all. A few. men can defend the w^orks, and nearly your whole force will be free to attack them. No better opportunity is offered for active service. These guerrillas are outlaws. It is not recognized warfare, and no engagement with them should be regarded." Yet, notwithstanding these precautions, the little band of Company B surprised General Redden on the nth follow- ing, capturing the town, and could have taken the whole garrison if it had had men sufficient to guard them. When Captain Darrell surrendered he was wearing a gold- mounted sw^ord bearing the inscription, *' Presented to Cap- Bull Run to Bull Run. 4p tain W. B. Darrell by Co. C, Third regiment, D. V.,'' which I promised to return him after the war was over. At its close I made inquiry after him and found he had been killed in front of Petersburg, so I thought no more about the matter until I received a letter from his cousin, living in Buflfalo, New York, in June, 1898, asking if I would part with the sword. I learned through my correspondence with this cousin that Captain Darrell's wife was still alive and her address was furnished me. My assent to return the sword was readily given, but I 'suggested that the wife should have the preference over the cousin. So I wrote to this lady at Manchester, New Hampshire, and on June 22, 1898, received the following courteous reply : Captain George Baylor: My Dear Sir, — I am just in receipt of your favor of June 20th, and hasten to express my gratification at your kind- ness in giving me the little history of the sword, which ren- ders the event of its restoration exceedingly interesting — and in order that you may comprehend my ignorance in regard to it, permit me to make a brief explanation. When the Third Delaware regiment was stationed at the Relay House, Maryland, in 1863, I met Lieutenant-Colonel William B. Darrell for the first time. This was after he had the fortune to become the prisoner of so generous a toe as yourself. After the exchange, he was commissioned lieu- tenant-colonel of his regiment (and later, just before his death, he was nominated colonel). We were married January, 1864 — and in less than four months he was ordered to the front. After much active service, he received his death- wound at the Weldon railroad battle before Petersburg, Virginia, June 18, 1864. He was but twenty-four years of age. Our lives were so full of immediate events — and the terrible shock of his death, which came to me when but little more than a child, crowded out all memory of his former experiences a;nd his capture, if he ever recounted them to me in detail — and I was oblivious of the incident of the sword until his cousin, Mrs. Margaret Said Gail, wrote me that she had been seeking for it for years, and at last was rewarded by finding its faithful keeper. She asked if I would be willing 4 50 Bull Run to Bull Run. for her to have it, to which I assented, not through any indif- ference, I do assure you, but through a spirit of unselfish wilHngness to yield to her a trophy so coveted, and indeed deserved, by her for her perseverance in securing it. I greatly appreciate your kind thoughtfulness in requesting my con- sent before handing it to Mrs. Gail, and let me thank you, Captain Baylor, for keeping so sacredly the promise you made to your prisoner, which shows wonderful integrity of character, and which has given such satisfaction, even if melancholy in sentiment, to his beloved ones. It greatly enhances its value — and if I erred in supposing you were one of his own loyal officers, I take great pleasure in recognizing you as an honorable officer in a " cause which you believed just '' — and the differences that existed then, are, I hope, obliterated by years and the common call which unites our whole country to-day against the most cruel monarchy of Europe. Very respectfully and gratefully yours, Virginia Darrell Grafton. After receiving this letter, the sword was forwarded by express to Mrs. Gail, in Buffalo, and the following letter acknowledging its receipt received : 374 Richmond Avenue, Buffalo, New York. My Dear Mr. Baylor: Please pardon my not writing you sooner thanking you for the sword. I appreciate your goodness and kindness in giving it to me, for it certainly was noble in you to give it up, for I know it must have been dear to you, having been in your possession so long. My son was more than happy the day it came, and it now hangs on the wall in his room. If you or your family ever come to Buffalo, my husband and I will be pleased to return the kindness you have done us. My daughter was delighted to make you a member of the " Red Cross Society." I think she wrote you yesterday. Thanking you again, I remain very respectfully, Margaret S. Gail. There is an incident connected with the Front Royal raid, told me by Dr. R. C. Buck, then a boy in his teens, worthy of narration here : Daniel F. Bell. 32 Bull Run to Bull Run. Dr. William Marshall, now a resident of Milford, Delaware, was at the time of this raid surgeon of the Third Delaware regiment, and from all I know and have heard of him, a very- estimable gentleman. While this regiment was stationed at Front Royal he had taken comfortable quarters at the resi- dence of Mr. William Buck (father of Dr. R. C. Buck), just south of the town, and was very much esteemed by the Buck familv for his uniform courtesv and kindness. On the morn- ing of the raid he said to Mrs. Buck, " It may appear silly- to you for me to say it, but I dreamed last night of being captured by the biishzchackcrs, and it has made such a strong impression on my mind that I cannot throw it off." Mrs. Buck laughingly told him, " Why, Doctor, you should wear your green sash for protection." " Oh,'' hq replied, " I dis- like to be decked out with gingerbread decorations." As he left the house after breakfast Mrs. Buck requested him to bring her a bottle of vinegar out of his hospital supplies, which he promised to do. He had visited his patients at the hospital, and was walking down the street on the road to dinner, when the Rebs entered the town, and seeing his shoulder straps, supposed him an officer of rank in the line and gobbled him up." Speedily mounting him on a horse, without saddle or bridle, his captor seized the halter-strap, and the Doctor was hustled out of town in a mode and man- ner not the most agreeable. When about three miles south of the town, the enemy still driving us, the Doctor having been bounced up and down until his agony had become unen- durable, in desperation he slipped off the rump of the horse, made for the bushes and escaped. Dr. Buck says, having heard of the Doctor's capture, he promptly claimed his pistol and sword, which were left in his room at his father's house, as his part of the spoils, but, unfortunately for him, just as the sun was sinking behind the hills, in walked the Doctor, dusty and dirty, and while he was pleased to see him, could not but feel a boy's disappointment at not being: the. possessor of the pistol and sword. The Doctor's experience Bull Run to Bull Run, 55 with the bushwhackers, as he is pleased to term us, seems not to have been very pleasant, as he writes me that " my escape — that is, the manner thereof being known, too well known to you to forget, suffice it to say that I bear the marks in my own body." What he means by this I am unable to divine; as I am credibly informed he was not wounded, he must have suflfered ill-eflfects from his bare-back ride. If he uses this figure of speech to express his utter abhorrence of the wild Mazeppa ride on that occasion, I cannot find fault with him for so doing. If he still treasures up the wrong against me, it may be some consolation for him to know that his people, in the February following, gave me a bare-back ride in return. " For time at last sets aU things even — And if we do but 'watch the hour, There never yet was human power Which could evade, if unforgiven. The patient search and vigil long Of him who treasures up a wrong.*' On our return to Luray, the company met with an ovation and were feasted right royally. All doubts as to our fighting qualities were now removed, and Company B was on the ladder of fame. Mr. Lionberger very frankly congratulated me, and was ever after a warm friend and admirer, and one of his fair daughters composed and set to music a little song dedicated to the " Baylor Light Horse.'' Only one verse can now be recalled : (( At a town among the mountains, Where amid the sparkling fountains Camped a host of Yankees in their boasted might, Baylor boldly charged among them; From their sleep he did arouse them, And^ like Murat, rode bravely thro* the fight. CHORUS. " Come, come, come boys, come, Come all ye who'd live in story. He will lead you to glory O'er fields cold and gory, He'll lead you, boys, where honor's to be won." 54 Bull Run to Bull Run, The good people of Front Royal after this dash, and during- the war, received us with great kindness, and the resident survivors of that conflict still refer to this incident with pride, as show'ing the daring of our soldier boys. The effect of this raid was such that on the day following" Front Royal was evacuated, and the garrison retired to Winchester, thus opening to our raids the entire lower Valley. CHAPTER IV. Thrice hath the lone owl hooted^ And thrice the panther cried, And swifter through the darkness The pale brigade shall ride; No trumpet sounds its coming, And no drum-beat stirs the air. But noiseless in their vengeance, They wreak it everywhere. Kn Klux. Returning to camp from the Front Royal raid, our horses and ourselves were rested and prepared for another escapade down the Valley, and as I have in my possession a letter written at the time by a distinguished member of our com- pany, giving a full and detailed account of our trip in that section, I will adopt it as a much more accurate account of our doings and proceedings than I could write after such a lapse of time : Harrisonburg, August 26, 1862. Messrs. Editors: In a letter written two weeks ago, giving you an account of the expedition of the " Baylor Light Horse " into the town of Front Royal, I promised that the company should be heard from again very soon. I am now seated to redeem my promise, by furnishing you with an account of our recent successful expedition into the county of Jefferson — the land of our childhood and the beloved home of our riper years. On Wednesday last Company B, under the command of Lieutenant Milton Rouss, was ordered from camp at Harri- sonburg to Mount Jackson, for the purpose of relieving Captain Rinker's company from picket duty. We encamped for the night on Rude's Hill, and arrived at Mt. Jackson at an early hour on Thursday morning. But our young officers [55] 56 Bull Run to Bull Run, could not brook the idea of remaining so far from the enemy, and determined to make a trip down the Valley. Leaving a sufficient picket force for the post, under the command of a sergeant, the balance of the company (30 men, with Lieu- tenants Rouss, Baylor, of Front Royal renown, and Roland) proceeded towards the point of proposed operations. Thursday night was spent in the beautiful and hospitable village of Woodstock, where all that was necessary for our bodily comfort was done. Smiles and sweet notes of music from accomplished ladies nerved us for the task undertaken, and we left Woodstock at noon on Friday in the best possi- ble s])irits — some say under the influence of a variety of spirits. But, 'pon 'onor, that must be a mistake. We readied Strasburg in time to partake of a bountiful supper served up by mine host, Mr. Richardson, and at nightfall resinned our march. We reached the village of Newtown at TO o'clock, and were met enthusiastically by almost the entire population, men, women and children. Some refresh- ments were partaken of, and then towards Yankee soldiers we again proceeded. (It may be proper here to remark, for the benefit of some of your readers, that Newtown is on the Valley turnpike, eight miles from Winchester, where the enemy's force consists of one brigade of infantry, one com- pany of artillery, and 290 cavalry. The pickets on this road are posted one mile from Winchester.) It may be improper, for the purposes of our officers, that I should discover to your curious readers the route we took from Newtown. It may be possible that we camped for a few hours in Hampshire county, and it may be that we did not. But I will remark that we travelled nearly all night in ahnost complete silence, the only sounds heard being those occasioned by our horses pounding through brush and rock- breaks. We arrived, a few minutes before daylight, at the ])Iace selected for our camping, and sunrise found us snugly ensconced in the bushes, in close proximity to the hospitable mansions of some of the most loyal men in the lower Valley. Oliarlee J. Berry. ^8 Bull Run to Bull Run, Here we quietly remained, holding our position, until the afternoon of Saturday, when we emerged from our conceal- ment, and proceeded in the direction of the Winchester and Potomac railroad, Lieutenant Rouss having determined to capture the mail train, if within the range of human possi- bility. The point arrived at was midway between Summit Point and Wade's Depot, at each of which places the enemy had a force of 80 infantry and five cavalry. The distance between the two depots is four miles, hence in either direc- tion we were only two miles from the enemy. At 4 o'clock the road was reached, and in a few minutes the sound of the engine was heard. And now began the exciting hour. The music of the engine fell with more consoling eflfect upon our tired band than the sweetest strains from lovely women. Eagerness was depicted upon every countenance, and proud anticipations were indulged in, in view of the prospective reward. A quick disposition was made of our force, and obstructions were at once placed on the track to bring the train to a halt. On came the train, which had now reached within 100 yards of the obstruction. The command was given to halt, but the frightened engineer took no heed of the comriiand. A fire was at once opened upon the speeding train from more than a dozen revolvers, and in a moment the obstruction was reached, and the train came to a dead halt. The engineer was at once dethroned, and the cars entered. The first thing to be done was to secure the Yankee soldiers on board, eight in number, who were on their way to join their companies in Winchester. The poor creatures looked the picture of astonishment and despair, and submitted with- out resistance to the " rebel boys." A few citizens were on board, but as there was no possible use to which they could be put, they were permitted to go on their way rejoicing only, I guess, that their lives had been spared. The agent of the Adams Express Company, in an attempt to escape, was shot at and badly wounded in the thigh. The express car was entered and a rich exhibition unfolded itself to our almost Bull Run to Bull Run. 5p famishing boys. Baskets of champagne, boxes of delicious peaches, apples, pears, oranges, lemons, etc., were discovered, and *' pitched into.'' Never did men partake of good things with better aj)petites. The boys drank to the health of every- body in general, and their sweethearts in particular, and jollity and good cheer reigned supreme. One individual of my acquaintance, very near to me, having surfeited himself on champagne, compelled the alarmed engineer to tap a ten-gallon keg of cider, hold it up for him, and then with a gusto he drank to the health of " Jefif. Davis, the Southern Confederacy, and my sweetheart only a few miles ofif." But we had not made the dash simply for the purpose of securing eatables and drinkables. Something else was to be done. The express safe was opened, and United States money, to the amount of $4,000, consigned to some Federal paymaster at Winchester, was extracted, together with a number of other valuable articles. The United States mail was also secured, containing, amongst other documents, official dis- patches from General Pope to Brigadier-General White, commanding at Winchester. These dispatches have been forwarded to General Jackson, and will doubtless prove of great value to the old hero. A number of letters to different parties came into our possession, many of which will be valuable as soon as our troops regain entire possession of the Valley. All the valuables having been secured, nothing was left to be done at this point but to destroy the cars. Fires were built in the two passenger cars and one express car, and the pine piled on to facilitate the burning. And here a sigh involuntarily escaped from some of us. To see the old " low-back cars,'' upon which many of us had made pleasant journeys, consigned to the devouring element, brought up in memory's train remembrances of " Lang Syne," and thoughts of mothers and sisters near came rush- ing over us, for the old train had been the medium of many happy hours and pleasant communications between us and home. I felt the force of these reflections sensiblv, but dutv 6o Bull Run to Bull Run. ^ dictated that all the damage possible should be done our ruthless invaders. The old cars burned magnificently, and the fiery tongue of the flames seemed almost to lick the lower clouds. Good-bye, old Winchester train, you survive now only in memory — your uncouth but always pleasant form is now consigned to the past. A full head of steam was put on the engine, and with the furnace heated *' ten times hotter than it was wont to be/' the old machine was started in the direction of Winchester. No tales could be told, for she was entirely unoccupied. The progress of the engine up the track, as far as could be seen, was rich indeed. The old thing went thundering along, and the unevenness of the track caused ** der machine " to tumble up and down in a promiscuous manner. How far she went, and what was thought of her progress, I do not pretend to say. The engineer declared it was a ruined institution, and that the trip would exhaust all the vitality the old thing had remaining in her. Farewell, old friend ! you have been blowing a long while, but your career is now ended. The uses to which you have been of late months put have been too base, and your fate is a fitting one for your sinning. You are now beyond the hand of Federal resurrection, or rather reconstruction, as the Yankees will have it. The telegraph pole was now ascended, the wire disengaged from the pole, and destroyed for a distance of more than 200 yards. At the time of cutting the wire a message was being sent over the line. A '' stop '' was certainly put to that proceeding — a stay in the execution of some villainous design. And now we determined to leave this point, but not to beat a retreat towards th^ upper Valley yet. Lieutenant Roland, with 13 men, took charge of the prisoners, and started back by the route we came, whilst the 17 remaining men, under Lieu- tenants Rouss and Baylor, determined to penetrate farther into the enemy's country. The track was crossed, and " for Smithfield " was the rallying cry. Smithfield is in the county of Jefferson, six miles from Charlestown, 14 from Winches- Bull Run to Bull Run, 6i ter, and five miles in the direction of the Potomac from the point where the track was crossed. Approaching the town in a slow trot, we had arrived within about a half-mile of the place, when the blue uniforms of the Yankee pickets were discovered. Our gait was unchecked, and the .pickets seemed not at all disturbed, thinking, of course, we were a scouting party of their men. They did not discover their error until we had approached within 20 yards of them. The command to charge was given, and in an instant the three pickets were ours, together with their horses, equipments, etc., they not having had time to fire a shot at us. On ques- tioning them, it was found that the force in town was 14. The charge was ordered, and thundering into the town went the boys. The Yankees were taken completely by surprise, only one man having time to mount his horse, and he being speedily overtaken. They failed to fire a shot, and we had the extreme satisfaction of knowing that 17 rebel cavalry had surprised and captured 17 Yankees of the same branch of the service without having had a shot fired at them. The spoils at this point were 17 horses, some of them very fine ones; 20 revolvers, Colt's army and navy pattern, of the finest quality, nearly new; 5 Sharpens carbines, in splendid condition; 18 Yankee saddles, bridles, and other trappings, such as were just necessary to make our company the best- equipped one in the regiment; also, a large number of gum overcoats, blankets, etc. And now the time had arrived for us to commence our retreat, if such it might be called, as we were all loaded down with Yankee prisoners and plunder. I will not be indiscreet enough to tell what hole we creeped out of, for it might be stopped up should I do so. I will state, however, for the benefit of the '' Feds," that we were not far from Winchester, and at midnight saw the camp-fires on Shultz's Hill, from which we were distant only three miles ! We camped for one hour, at daybreak, only five miles from old Winchester, towards which place many of us directed longing eyes and 62 Bull Run to Bull Run. anxious thoughts. But we hope to be there soon and will not occupy ourselves with useless repining. The retreat was conducted with great discretion and we arrived safely in camp with our booty on Monday morning, having travelled about 175 miles in three days and been in our saddles two nights. It is inferred that the boldness of our dash caused a fluttering amongst the Yankees along the Hne of the road. It is fair to presume that General White became considerably whiter and that old Wool presented a more sheepish appear- ance than ever. I have thus hastily, Mr. Editor, given you a few incidents of the trip. The roughness with which they are thrown together and detailed must be forgiven. I am tired and exhausted, and will endeavor to do better next time. When Company B makes another raid down the Valley I will try and be on hand to furnish you an account of their doings. I am truly, yours, H. D. B, P. S. — Since the above was written information has been received to the effect that the raid on the train caused the greatest consternation in Winchester. Preparations were at once made to evacuate the town, and a cavalry force of 200 men was sent out in search of the audacious rebels. Berry- ville, Wade's, and Summit Point were visited by the cavalry, with the hope of finding our boys. But the birds had flown, and General White failed to trace the direction they had taken. The engine, after performing a variety of antics, came to a dead halt three miles from Winchester, and expired from sheer exhaustion. H. D. B. The enemy's account of this affair will be found in the following telegrams and reports : Baltimore, August 24, 1862. Hon. P. H. Watson, Assistant Secretary of War : We have advices that yesterday at 4 P. M. a squadron of the enemv's cavalry stopped the passenger train between James O. Oonklyn. 64 Bull Run to Bull Run. Harper's Ferry and Winchester, took the agent of Adams express and all on board prisoners except two, who escaped, and burned the train and cut the telegraph wire. The com- mand of Lieutenant Milling, at Smithfield, a point west of the Winchester road, and on the route to Martinsburg, was captured during the evening. John W. Garrett, President. Winchester, Va., August 23, 1862. Major-General Pope : The railroad train from Harper's Ferry to this place was fired into and burned this afternoon, the mail captured and telegraph wire cut; a few soldiers coming here were taken. With what mounted force I can muster, I am trying to inter- cept the marauders. This may be nothing more than a raid of bushwhackers, or it may indicate movements of the enemy down the Valley. 1 give you the facts for whatever they are worth. Julius White, Brigadier-General Commanding. Winchester, Va., August 24, 1862. Major-General Pope: The railroad train from Harper's Ferry to this place was captured and burnt by a party of Ashby's cavalry last even- ing and the telegraph cut. I have had the latter repaired. Workmen are clearing the track and repairing the road. What mounted men I can command are in pursuit of the enemy. Julius White, Brigadier-General Commanding. Washington, D. C, August 25, 1862. Major-General Pope : Ascertain, if possible, if the enemy is not moving down the Shenandoah Valley. H. W. Halleck, General-in-Chief. Camp Bolivar, August 25, 1862 To Colonel Dixon S. Miles: Sir, — In obedience to an order received from Captain Henrv A. Cole, commanding battalion, bearing date August Bull Run to Bull Run. 65 4, 1862, I proceeded to Smithfield with 20 men for the pur- pose of picketing, as well as to arrest all returned rebel soldiers, capture their horses, arms, and also to keep all con- traband articles from being conveyed to the enemy. Which duties I performed until Saturday evening, August 23d, when we w^ere surprised by Baylor's rebel cavalry. My pickets were first captured by them. They then charged through the village, capturing the following of my men — viz., , making 17 in all, and had it not been that I had with me on duty Sergeant Winters and two men, we would in all probability be with them. The rebels numbered from 30 to 40. R. H. Milling, First Lieutenant, Commanding Pickets. This honest and truthful report, it seems, was not very satisfactory to Colonel Miles, for he writes Lieutenant-Col- onel William D. Whipple, Assistant Adjutant-General, as follows : Harper's Ferry, Va., August 25, 1862. Sir, — I have the honor to receive a report of Lieutenant Milling, of the Maryland cavalry, of the loss of 17 n)en, while on picket at Smithfield, Va., on the 23d instant. This officer was esteemed trustworthy and attentive, and he was par- ticularly charged to be vigilant and on the alert against sur- prise. His report is unsatisfactory, and he deserves signal punishment. I would advise his name to be stricken from the rolls of the army. I am. Colonel, Very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. S. Miles, Colonel Second Infantry, Commanding. General Wool indorses the above recommendation: Headquarters Eighth Army Corps, Baltimore, August 28, 1862. Respectfully forwarded with remarks of Colonel Miles, and recommend that First-Lieutenant R. H. MiUing be dis- missed the service. 5 66 Bull Run to Bull Run. Adjutant-General L. Thomas forwarded it to the Secretary of War with indorsement as follows : Respectfully submitted to the Secretary of War, with recommendation that the officer be dismissed the service. It was approved by the Secretary of War and poor Milling dismissed without a hearing, and solely because he was the creature of unfortunate circumstances. There was no lack of vigilance on his part, his pickets were on post and surprised without his fault, and his reserve captured while he was oflf on duty. The frankness and candor of his report ought to have commended him, and I feel confident that the Federal service in the dismissal of Lieutenant Milling lost a good and worthy officer. On our retreat from Smithfield, we took the route by Bunker Hill and around through ''Apple Pie Ridge," cross- ing the Northwestern Grade a few miles west of Winchester, making a complete circuit around General White and .•striking the Valley turnpike near Middletown. While we ^vere passing round west of Winchester, General White's cavalry were scouring the country east, to intercept us. dt^ CHAPTER V. Their eyes are flames of fire. They roll in search of the land. Their mighty hands are oq their swords. Lightning pours from their sides of steel. They come like streams from the mountains; each rushes roaring from the hills. — Ossian. After the capture of the train of cars and Lieutenant Milling's command, Company B was not long idle. Moving down the Valley and taking lodgement in the counties of Clarke and Jefferson, it continued to harass the enemy on every favorable occasion. His pickets and outposts were daily attacked, and communication between Winchester and Harper's Ferry broken until the 2d of September, when General White, who commanded the former post, unable to keep the way open, became so much alarmed, that, after spiking many of his larger guns and destroying a large amount of his stores and ammunition, he hastily evacuated Winchester and retired on Harper's Ferry, by way of Mar- tinsburg, when there was only actually threatening him about 100 men of our company. This move led to his cap- ture and the capture of his command on the 15th following. The situation is best described in his own report to General Halleck : Marti xsBURG, W. \\\., September 6, 1862. General : I have the honor to report, that in accordance with the telegraphic order of ]\Iajor-General Halleck, of the 2d instant, the troops under my command evacuated the fortifications near Winchester, Va., on the evening of the same day, falling back on Harper's Ferry without opposition, and arriving there on the afternoon of the 3d instant. Owing to deficiency in transportation and the imperative nature of the order, as Zi'cll as the authenticated presence of three or four brigades of the enemy in the Valley, it was impracticable to luring away all of the government propertv accumulated at [67] 68 Bull Run to Bull Run, the post. The four 32-pounclers, mounted on the works, it was found impossible to remove with the requisite celerity, and they were in consequence spiked, the muzzles and sights battered, the trunnions strained, and balls wedgjed in the bpres. The carriages were broken and burned. All of the ammunition which could be conveyed bv rail was so re- moved, leaving about one-third in the main works, which was fired and the works almost entirely destroyed by the explosion. The well was choked. Of quartermaster stores some 70,000 pounds of forage was destroyed, and of the commissary stores some 60,000 rations, accumulated for the defence of the place. These, as well as the tools, etc., used in constructing the works and the property of the several commands, which they were unable to transport, were burned. I am, sir, your very obedient servant, Julius White, Brigadier-General Commandinjg. Brigadier-General Cullum, Chief of Staflf. Poor White ! He magnified one company into three brigades, and in his great haste to get away, his imagination created intentions and embodied forms of things unknown to him. The guns were very slightly injured, and a large amount of j)roperty, consisting of guns, ammunition, clothing, forage, 175 to 200 barrels of bacon, and other valuable stores, fell into our hands. The good people of Winchester laid in their winter supply of meat and groceries. Colonel Mallory, in his testimony before the court-martial ordered to try General White for so hastily evacuating Winchester, says : " There were abandoned about 120,000 rations and about 190 to 200 barrels of bacon." The testimony of the various witnesses before this court-martial show how greatly our little force had impressed the enemy. Colonel Thomas H. Ford testifies: "Question. Do you know or not, whether there was not a force of the enemy constantlv around Winchester all the time we were there? Answer. I do know there was. I know our pickets were attacked almost every night. I do not think there was a Ohas. O. Oonklyu. JO Bull Run to Bull Run. night passed, but what you directed me to detail one or more companies to reinforce pickets. We could hear the firing on our pickets.'' Question by General White : '' Were there not frequent skirmishes with parties of the enemy by parties I sent oflf for that purpose? Answer. Yes, sir." Major A. W. Corliss testifies : '' Question. Was it not well known that the Twelfth Virginia Cavalry was in our imme- diate vicinity for at least a week or ten days prior to the evacuation? Answer. I never heard the number of the regi- ment; I know there was a regiment about there.'^ Lieutenant Carness testifies : '* Question. Was there a cavalrv force immediatelv about Winchester? Answer. Yes, sir. Question. Was it in sufficient force to have taken pos- session of Winchester and any stores that we might have left there at the time of the evacuation? Answer. Yes, sir. Question. Do you know whether they did so or not after we left? Answer. According to the best information I have got, they were in there about the time we were out." On September 2d, the day General White evacuated Win- chester, about 9 A. M., with six men, we attacked the enemy's picket near Keyes Ford, a short distance south of Harper's Ferry, taking eight prisoners, with their horses and equipments, without loss. The Federal account of this little dash is as follows: Tuesday, September 2, 1862. Lieutenant Bierney, with an orderly, went to Keyes Ford to ascertain the truth of the reported capture of Cole's cavalry pickets, and ascertained the facts to be as follows : A party of 25 Confederate cavalry dashed down the Kabletown or River road and captured the outer vidette, a quarter of a mile from his comrades, and forced him to inform them of the position of the others, who were at that time in a corn- shed, dismounted. They dashed in and captured the party without resistance on the part of our pickets. This party Bull Run to Bull Run. jl of Confederate cavalry was led by a Lieutenant Baylor, son of the notorious Captain Baylor, or Colonel Baylor, who was killed at the battle of Winchester. My father had been severely wounded April 2y^ 1862, at McGaheysville, and reported by the enemy as killed, and no doubt this gave rise to the statement above. On September 4th, Lieutenant-Colonel Massie, with Company I, of our regiment, and a squadron of the Eleventh Virginia Cavalry, joined us at Bunker Hill, and on the 5th moved down near Darkesville. On the 6th, our company drove in the enemy's pickets on the Martinsburg turnpike, a short distance from the town, capturing eight prisoners. Ascertaining that the force at Martinsburg was too strong for us, we began retiring, and had reached Darkesville, when suddenly the enemy charged our rear. Company B, covering the retreat, soon faced about, met the enemy's charge and repulsed it, taking some dozen prisoners, killing the lieu- tenant-colonel and 12 men of the Twelfth Illinois Cavalry. The Colonel's saddle and bridle graced my horse the re- mainder of the war, and was allowed me at the surrender. But the enemy, greatly outnumbering us, charged a second time, broke our column, and after a severe struggle, routed our force and pursued it nearly to Bunker Hill. On September 6, 1862, Lieutenant Bierney reports: " Colonel Voss, with the Twelfth Illinois Cavalry, met the enemy, and after a severe fight, routs them and takes 45 prisoners, horses and equipments. The enemy's loss was 15 killed and a large number wounded. Colonel Voss loses two killed and 12 wounded." And Colonel Voss in his report says " he had the Twelfth Illinois Cavalry, four companies of the Sixty-fifth Illinois Infantry, and a section of Captain Phillips's Battery. The enemy's loss was 41 prisoners and 25 killed. We had none killed, 13 wounded, most of them badly, and one prisoner." I do not now remember the loss on our side beyond that in 72 Bull Run to Bull Run. our company, which was two prisoners, not actually in the fight, but captured at a house near by, while getting a lunch. I am sure, however, it was not as large as claimed by the enemy in the above reports. On the 7th, Company B took up position near Charles- town, and remained there until the morning of the i^itx, when we were attacked by four companies of the First New York Cavalry about a mile west of the town, and after a sharp brush the enemy retired. In this encounter Lieutenant Rouss and Carev Selden were wounded. About noon we again entered Charlestown and followed the enemy to Hall- town. While occupying a position near Halltown, we were surprised at seeing General Jackson's advance approaching on the Martinsburg road, en route to Harper's Ferry. From them we learned that our troops were moving on Maryland and Loudoun Heights and investing Harper's Ferry. On the 14th, Colonel Massie coming up, the cavalry was assigned to duty on the left of Jackson's line, which position we held during the investment and until the surrender of the enemy, on the morning of the 15th. The sight at Harper's Ferry on the night of the 14th was grand. Our batteries on Maryland and Loudoun Heights and on School-House Hill were playing on Miles's forces, now shut up in a narrow space along Bolivar Heights, and the pyrotechnic display was magnificent. In the early morning our infantry line and artillery began moving- up the slope to Bolivar Heights, and soon the enemy, driven out of his works, took refuge on the eastern slope of the ridge in easy range of our batteries on Maryland and Lou- doun Heights. Early in the action the white flag appeared, and Miles surrendered; but before we could signal our bat- teries on the Heights to cease firing. Miles was killed by a bursting shell, and General White completed the terms of surrender. Jackson's loss at Harper's Ferry was very small. The enemy lost, besides killed and wounded, 11,000 prisoners, 13,000 small-arms, y^ pieces of artillery, 200 Bull Run to Bull Run. /j wagons, and a large amount of stores. General Miles, antici- pating the surrender of his forces, had issued all the clothing in stock, and on the 15th, when the Federal troops were drawn up in line preparatory to surrender, they all appeared in new suits, and made quite an imposing display in contrast with our foot-sore, weary, and ragged veterans. As our troops were passing in front of the Federal column and the Yankees and our men were guying each other, a " blue- belly " .called out, " Hello, Johnny, why don't you wear better clothes? " and in an instant came the retort from an old North Carolinian, '' These are good enough to kill hogs in." The Federal prisoners were paroled, and, Jackson having finished his work at Harper's Ferry, on the 15th we took up our line of march for Sharpsburg, and took part in that memorable engagement, and found it an exceedingly hot contest. We were, with three companies of our regiment, placed in a position to protect one of our batteries — the most trying duty of a soldier on the field of battle. After a severe conflict, both sides became exhausted and seemed willing to rest from their labors. On the 1 8th, Company B was ordered back to Harper's Ferry, with instructions to picket the Potomac at that point and report any movement of the enemy in that direction. This position was held by our company until the enemy crossed in force and drove us back to Halltown. We re- mained at Halltown until the i6th of October, when a column of the enemy under General Hancock advanced, and, after a brisk fight just east of Charlestown, our small force of cavalry under Colonel Mumford was driven back, and Charlestown was occupied by the enemy. On the afternoon of the 17th, General Hancock withdrew his command to Harper's Ferry, and Charlestown was again occupied by us and pickets posted at Halltown. General McClellan having now crossed the Potomac east of the Blue Ridge, began his march southward, and General Lee, who 74 Bull Run to Bull Run, had been resting his army near Bunker Hill, moved across the mountains to confront him, but our company was left at its post. On November ist, while our company reserve was occupy- ing a little woods on the Brown farm, we were surprised in our camp in the early morning by a dash made by the enemy's cavalry. Our horses were unsaddled and unbridled and tied to trees. Awakening from our slumbers and real- izing the situation, we fought the enemy on foot and drove them out of camp and over a hill in our front; then, while keeping up a fire with a few men, the others retired to camp, saddled, bridled, and mounted, and, making a charge on the enemy, drove them back to Halltown. Just in front of Mr. Shaeffer's house my horse received a fatal wound and I a slight one in the calf of my leg, which was not sufficient to render me Iiors de combat, I led the noble animal, which I dearly loved, and whose very life seemed bound to -mine by dangers shared and daily companionship, to the roadside, where she laid down on the green turf. Her breathing too plainly indicated that death was near. As her eyes rested on me in fondness and affec- tion, human nature could not resist, and, kneeling down by her side, and clasping my arms about her neck, I wept. When I arose she was dead. She died, and with her life passed away my hopes and aspirations for her whose name she bore. The dream of my young life vanished, and the hopes of the future were dissipated. The enemy having made a stand at Halltown, our com- pany passed unobserved to the south of the turnpike, in the rear of Rion Hall, coming in their rear just east of the town, and, making a dash, routed and drove them in confusion over the hills. In this fracas we captured seven prisoners. This force proved to be Cole's Cavalry battalion. After this occurrence matters remained quiet in our front until the first part of December, when a column under Gen- eral Geary, about 5,000 strong, advanced on Charlestown. Charles L. Crane. 76 Bull Rim to Bull Run. Just east of the town we engaged his advance, and after a spirited contest, were driven back. In this fight, Sergeant Timberlake, Richard Baylor, and Charles Isler were wounded. The enemy passed through Charlestown and continued its route through Berryville to Winchester. Company B, falling in in its rear, harassed the enemy along the route and captured some prisoners. Geary's cavalry (Cole's Battalion) kept close beside the infantry and could not be induced to part company. The remainder of our regiment was stationed at Winches- ter, and after a skirmish with the enemv, it retired south on the Valley turnpike. After occupying Winchester one day, General Geary re- turned to Harper's Ferry by way of Bunker Hill, Smith- field, and Charlestown, having accomplished nothing but the loss of some fifteen prisoners and • having made a narrow escape from capture himself, at Charlestown, on his return, in a dash made on his rear by our company. In his report of this trip, he says : Bolivar Heights, December 6, 1862. Colonel : We marched by the Harper's Ferry and Win- chester turnpike to Charlestown, which we reached at 8:30 A. M., coming suddenly upon two companies of the Twelfth Virginia Cavalry, who had taken position in vacant houses and in the woods about three-fourths of a mile this side of town. A skirmish here occurred between our advance and this body of the enemy, which latter prosecuted a constant firing for some fifteen minutes, resulting in their rout and the loss of four or five wounded and several horses killed. John W. Geary, Brigadier-General Commanding. General Geary is not very accurate in his report, as our force consisted of Company B alone, and we were without any help this side of Winchester, 22 miles away, and it is not usual for cavalrymen to take position in vacant houses. Bull Run to Bull Run. yj m and there were none east of town. We foug-ht the General in open field, about 60 men against 5,000, and, having done the best we could, retired in regular order through the town, and after he passed through we acted as his file-closers to Winchester and back again to Charlestown. We kept his men in line, and gave them no opportunity to plunder along their route. After a day's reflection. General Geary reports as follows : " I have the honor to report, as an addition to the report of the recent reconnoissance to Winchester, that in the skir- mish near Charlestow^n among the rebels wounded were Lieutenant Baylor, who had his arm blown off, and Privates Isler and Timberlake, all of the cavalry." I am thankful to report my arms are still on, but the Gen- eral has no doubt confounded me with my brother Richard, whose arm was broken bv a musket-ball. Company B continued to hold Charlestown, with no sup- port nearer than Winchester, until January, 1863. On the 20th of December, with 25 men, we moved down the River road and attacked the enemy's reserve cavalry picket near the double toll-gate, just west of Bolivar Heights, capturing seven prisoners, horses and equipments, and as we were returning to Charlestown, at Lucas's gate, just west of Hall- town, encountered about 200 of Cole's cavalry under Col- onel Vernon, who, it seems, had started out on a raid to Charlestown, but on hearing the cannon firing at Bolivar heights had turned back to Harper's Ferry. At the first glance we supposed them to be some of our regiment from Winchester, sent down to look after us, but soon realized the true situation and prepared for an attack. Five of our men had charge of the prisoners captured, which left us only 20 effective men. Both sides charged, we met near the cake and cider shop, and after a short struggle positions were exchanged,. the enemy passing on to Harper's Ferry and we 7<S ' Bull Run to Bull Run, to Charlestown. We brought off safely our seven prisoners, and wounded several others of the enemy. We lost one prisoner in the fight, W. L. Wilson. The enemy about a mile east of Charlestown picked up my father, who was unarmed, still a sufferer from his wound, and on a visit to some wards, but I was not aware of it until I returned to Charlestown. I met Colonel Cole that evening under flag of truce, and after inquiring after my father, proposed to him to make an exchange for him and Wilson, first offering him three for two, and finally offering his seven men for our two, but he declined. My father remained a prisoner from that time until late in 1864, but Wilson was soon exchanged and back with the company. In a volume lately published, entitled ** History of the Troops from Maryland Who Served in the Northern Army During the Civil War,'' and under head of *' Cole's Cavalry," note the following: *' On the 20th day of December, 1862, a portion of the Twelfth Virginia Cavalry, under a certain Cap- tain Baylor (who had achieved an unenviable notoriety by firing upon a flag of truce amongst his other exploits), con- cluded to wipe out of existence Cole's cavalry and moved rapidly down the Valley to surprise them. Cole's cavalry had, however, been promptly advised by their scouts of the movements, and Companies A and C, under Captain Ver- non, leaving their pickets in position, moved around the left flank to the rear of the attacking column, and although out- numbered, charged them, capturing Captain Baylor and a large part of his command, driving them four miles. Cap- tain Baylor was subsequently tried at Harper's Ferry for his life for violating the laws of civilized warfare." If this is history, it ought certainly to be named Ananias's history. Ananias and Sapphira would have enjoyed the com- pany of another shade had this modern historian lived in those days and been amenable to the same law. The false- hood of Ananias had some of the ear-marks of truth. He sold a possession and kept back part of the price. He rep- Bull Run to Bull Run, 7P resented he had sold a possession and the money he brought was all the price. His heir at law in lying, the late historian, has also some of the semblance of truth in his statement. A fight occurred between 25 men of Company B, a portion of the Twelfth Virginia Cavalry, under Lieutenant Baylor (my title then), and companies A and C, of Cole's cavalry, under Captain Vernon, but Captain Baylor was not in command nor was he captured in the fight, but was picked up alone and unarmed while at a house engaged in civil business, and had never fired on a flag of true or violated the laws of war, and it was so found by a Federal general and Secretary of War (a court certainly not biased in his favor), and ordered exchanged. There was no moving rapidly down the Valley to wipe out Cole's cavalry, for Company B, under my command, un- aided and unsupported, had occupied Charlestown for more than a month prior to this occasion and for more than a week afterwards, within eight miles of Cole's cavalry and its sup- port. Every opportunity was afforded them, for a trial of combat and it was declined, while on the other hand, Cole's cavalry kept close within infantry protection and under the protection of their artillery. That morning, when with 25 men its outposts were attacked, their artillery opened on us. In this fight the only member of our squad captured was William L. Wilson, our ex-Postmaster-General (who is a living witness of the fact), and therefore a large part of our command zvas not captured, unless Wilson was a large part thereof. The flag of truce violated was Uncle John Sorrell, a faithful old colored man of my father's, standing on our side of the Potomac, at Harper's Ferry, in the fall of 1861, calling over to the Yankees on the other side to come over for him, and the violation was committed by five members of my father's company, concealed under the Baltimore and Ohio railroad trestling, who fired into the enemy, killing and wounding several of a boat-load of Federal robbers, who 8o Bull Run to Bull Run, had responded to Uncle John's call. My father at the time was in Charlestown. It was a ruse de guerre, planned and executed by the men engaged in it, and Uncle John was a mere decoy duck. This was legitimate warfare and was so decided by General Kelley, and his finding approved by Secretary Stanton. Christmas day was spent in Charlestown, and the boys were the recipients of many presents at the hands of the fair and patriotic ladies of the town and vicinity, and all enjoyed the best that the countv could afford. In the midst of our festivity and hilarity, Colonel Cole and a couple of attendants came in under a flag of truce bearing a Christmas gift of a permit from Colonel Kenly allowing my mother to enter the Federal lines to visit my father, which was gladly accepted and the visit paid. Inter anna leges silent, but not the hearts, and combatants still preserve some of their humanity, and occasionally extended each other little courtesies and civili- ties which served to ameliorate the hardships and severeties of war. Joseph Crane. CHAPTER VI. Eternal spirit of the chainless mind! Brightest in dungeons, liberty, thou art! Byron. In the winter of 1863 o^^^ brigade, under command of General William E. Jones, encamped near New Market. After lying idle several weeks, some of our boys grew rest- less and longed to be on the move and to break the mo- notony of camp life. Permission was asked of General Jones for the company to make a scout in the lower Valley, but the request was refused on grounds we esteemed unreason- able and insufficient. Plans were then laid by some of the men, including Lieutenant Rouss and myself, to outgeneral the General. The camp-itch, a disease peculiar to soldiers living on hard-tack and mess-pork, was then prevalent m our brigade. Taking into our confidence our regimental surgeon. Dr. Burton, one morning about a dozen of us ap- peared before the surgeon's tent and made application to be sent to the hospital at Harrisonburg to be treated for this disease, and certificates were accordingly granted us. Re- porting to the surgeon in charge of the hospital, Dr. Wad- dell, a Virginia gentleman of the old type, our certificates were presented and we were booked as patients at that insti- tution. Without critical examination into our cases, some anointing ointment and a little bottle of Fowler's Solutioa of Arsenic was furnished each of us and permission granted to make our stay with friends and acquaintances in the vicinity of the hospital, with directions to report occasionally at the surgeon's office. Having now arranged our program satisfactorily, the following morning we started down the Valley, determined to trv our hands on the Yankees in that section, well assured [82 ] Bull Run to Bull Run, 83 that a successful venture would make the amende honorable and sufficient excuse with our officers for our little deviation from the line of military rectitude. Our little band of about a baker's dozen was composed of Lieutenant Rouss, John Chew, Billy Manning, Charlie Henderson, Charlie Crane, John Yates, John Coleman, George Crayton, Billy Gibson, Up Manning, Joe Crane, Duck English, and myself. We crossed the mountain to Luray and passed through Front Royal, stopping at regular intervals with friends along the route. February 12th found us at Summit Point, where informa- tion was received of a small scouting party of the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry, numbering 21 men, passing that place a short time before our arrival, going in the direction of Middleway or Smithfield. The Federal troops at that time occupied Winchester and various points in that vicinity, and dailv sent scouts to the outlving: countrv. This information g'reatly pleased us, and off we started in pursuit of the Yankee scouting party. Passing " Happy Retreat,'' the abode of one of our sweethearts, we were urged not to pur- sue, as the enemy was too strong for us, but we had travelled 60 miles in hunt of a fracas, and nothing could dissuade us. In fact, we were spoiling for a fight. As Middleway is approached from the direction of Summit Point, there is a straight stretch of road, probably a mile in extent, just before entering the town. Here the enemy was in full view, slowly sauntering along, totally oblivious of the fact that anv foe was in the vicinitv. Near- ing the hill just south of the town, our gait was accelerated, our pistols made ready, and we struck its rear, with the head of its column just over the hill. So intent were they in conversation and so unmindful of our presence, that the rear file was shot down and we were pressing into the column before they were aware of danger. Xo resistance was made, but pell-mell down through the town they ran, with our little band, yelling like hyenas, in 84 Bull Run to Bull Run. close pursuit, suffering mostly from their mud-pelting, and closing the race at the toll-gate just north of the town. In their mad rush for liberty and freedom they knocked over an old woman's churn in front of her house and sprinkled the street with her buttermilk. As the result of the fight four were killed, three wounded, seven men and 11 horses and equipments captured, with no casualty on our side. The dead and wounded were left on the field. With the prison- ers and horses we returned to Summit Point, and thence down to Locke's shop, where a stop was made to let Lieu- tenant Rouss have his horse shod. Fatal stop. The smith had nearly completed the job when a body of Yankee cavalry was seen approaching from the direction of Charlestown. The prisoners with horses and small guard were hurried down Locke's lane, and with a handful of men a dash was made on the advance of the enemy's column, to hold it in check a few moments, to give prisoners, captured horses, and guard a little start. The movement was more success- ful than we anticipated, as the head of the column was broken and thrown into confusion. In this charge, John Chew and Charlie Crane displayed conspicuous gallantry. The prisoners and horses had now gotten a pretty good distance in advance. We therefore fell back, in good order, down by Locke's house, through the Griggs place, striking the public road leading east to Feagan's mill and west to Summit Point turnpike. Here the advance, instead of turning east as it should have done, followed the road westward until reaching an angle in rear of Slifer farm, and then attempted to rectify the mistake by striking across his farm. At the first cross-fence the Yankee horses refused to jump, and the enemy pressing us from the rear, the prisoners and horses were recaptured. Learning, no doubt, from the recaptured men of the paucity of our numbers, they pressed us more vigorously. At the next fence Manning's horse fell, pin- ioning him to the ground, and he was captured. A short distance farther on Coleman met the same fate. Haying Bull Run to Bull Run, 85 passed across the Slifer farm, the retreat was continued down through the Dovenberger place, across in the direction of Porter's factory. On this trip, I was riding my father's horse Bony, a fine runner and jumper, and keeping in rear with a few well-mounte'd men to protect and shield those with weak and less agile steeds, when, on coming to a ditch in the field, my horse bounded over, slipped on the ice and fell, throwing me. In an instant Bony was up and gone, and poor, un- fortunate me, at the mercy of a fast-advancing foe. Just south of me I spied a rail fence, which in an instant I leaped, and while the Yankees were pulling it down to get over, I made the best run of my life across a wheat-field, with bullets knocking dirt over and around me. From the noise in my rear, I feel justified in concluding that the whole squadron took a shot at me. Before they got through the fence I reached the Keerl House (now Levi Porter's) and ran in the front door and out of the rear, down into the garden, and fell exhausted, under a gooseberry bush. I soon ob- served the Yankees in the yard and around the house, and before I could recover breath for another run they rode into the garden, spied me under the bush (poor protection in February), and made me a prisoner. My horse carried off my pistols and saber, and bore them safely back to camp. With the posse that captured me was a Lieutenant Hill, an exceedingly gentlemanly fellow for a Yankee, who, on learn- ing my name, treated me with much kindness and considera- tion. While standing in the garden talking with the party, up rode a big lager-beer Dutchman, who, in an excited manner, leaped off his horse, and, giving me a good Dutch cursing, placed his carbine to my breast and said: " Kill the damned rebel." I sighed inwardly for my pistol and a minute of freedom, that there might be one less Dutch hireling in this country. Just then Lieutenant Hill, pointing his pistol in the Dutchman's face, said : " If you shoot him, Til shoot you." This brought the cowardly scoundrel to his senses, 86 Bull Run to Bull Run. and he sneaked away like a sheep-killing dog. The attack- ing party was a squadron of the Fourteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, under Major Gibson. The further pursuit of our men was abandoned at this point, and Lieutenant Hill and five of his men took charge of me, taking me to Porters pump to allow me to wash some of the mud from my face. Colonel Porter, a citizen and gentleman of that neighborhood, kindly came down with a bottle of old rye, offered me a drink, which was de- clined, and then offered one to my captors, which they gra- ciously accepted. Thoughts of escape then entered my head, and I accordingly gave Colonel Porter the wink to offer them another drink, which he did, but to my sorrow they all declined. Not having an extra horse, I was mounted behind one of my guard, on a blanket, and thus ignominiously located, started for Charlestown by way of Feagan's mill and the Summit Point and Charlestown road. When the gate oppo- site the Isler House (now Carrell's) was reached, I met Tom Rockenbaugh; a neighbor, on his way home. I spoke to him and was about to request him to tell my mother that I was a prisoner, but not hurt, when, putting whip to his horse, he started in a full run. My guard shouted halt, and fired a couple of shots, but he never slackened pace. When I saw him next after this, I inquired why he had acted so strangely. " Why,'' said he, " If I had recognized you, they would have killed me, sure.'' We reached Charlestown about 4 P. M. I had entered the place so often as victor, and felt my humiliation so deeply, that I covered my head so that my friends would not recog- nize me. My escort kindly permitted rne to stop at the east end of the town, at my cousins' the Rutherfords, where I borrowed $20 in gold for use during prison life, which I anticipated would be long, as at that time there was no ex- change of officers. On resuming our journey. Lieutenant Hill kindly oflfered J no. Coleman. 88 Bull Run to Bull Run. me his horse, quite a nice animal, but like most Yankee horses, not bridlewise. He was anxious to get my opinion as to its qualities, which I readily assented to give after a trial; so I started off down Hunter's Hill in a lope, and if the guards had not followed so close, with their carbines drawn on me, calling halt, I would have given his horse a fair trial through Tate's woods, down the Kabletown road and away to freedom. Those fellows were evidently mind- readers, and by vigilance frustrated my plans. Lieutenant Hill now mounted his own horse, and I was placed on a very dilapidated steed, much like Don Quixote's Rosinante, which bore me in humble style to Harper's Ferry, while his rider took my place on the blanket behind his comrade. When captured I was wearing a pair of spurs, presented to my father by his friend, Hon. Henry Bedinger, and pur- chased by him in Denmark, while minister at that court. I recognized them as a legitimate prize of war, but riding along the way. Lieutenant Hill asked me if I would like to part with them. I told him their history, and said that while I wished to retain them, I was aware he had a right to them. " Well," said he, " if you wish to keep them, do so, but take them off and put them in your pocket, or some fellow will take them from you.'' I took his advice, put them in my pocket, and brought them safely back to Dixie. At Harper's Ferry I was put in charge of a lieutenant of infantry, whose name I cannot now recall. He took me to an oyster saloon and filled me with oysters, which were heartily enjoyed. After eating, the lieutenant informed me there was a ball in the Ferry that night, and I thought he was about to propose that I should attend, but on the con- trary, said that would prevent him from taking me to his quarters for rest, though he disliked to put me in their guard- house. I thanked him for his courtesy and good intentions, and expressed my willingness to go to accommodate him. He then took me to their prison under the Presbyterian Bull Run to Bull Run, 89 church, on Shenandoah street, and I have been a little shy of Presbyterian churches ever since. If it was Heaven above, it was surely hell below. I appreciated that night General Charles Lee's solemn request not to be buried " in any Pres- byterian church-yard, or within one mile of any Anabaptist meeting-house, as he had been forced to keep so much bad company during life that he wished to avoid it in death." The lieutenant advised me if I had any money or valuables to place them in the hands of the officer of the guard, as my fellow-prisoners were a disreputable set, and might rob me. The advice was taken and my gold watch and $20 were handed over with a vague suspicion I would never see them again. In this miserable den I found comrades Manning and Coleman and a crowd of Yankee deserters. I was much pleased to see my friends, for misery loves company. Sleep failed to weigh our eyelids down that night. Our couch was mud and dirt and our associates the vilest of the vile, fiends and devils incarnate. Morning was welcomed, our names were called, and as w^e passed out my watch and money were handed me, much to my surprise and gratification. A guard then marched us to the Baltimore and Ohio station, where we boarded the cars for Baltimore, arrived there about noon, and were taken to General Schenck's headquarters. The Federal account of our little raid is found in the report of General Schenck to General Halleck : Baltimore, Md., February 13, 1863. I have received the following dispatch from Brigadier- General Kelly: Harper's Ferry, V a., February 13, 1863. Yesterday about i P M. a squad of Baylor's rebel cavalry attacked a small party of the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cav- alry from Kearneysville, near Smithfield, killing four, wound- ing two, and capturing six men and several horses. About 4 P. M. my scouts here fell in with the same party a few miles go Bull Run to Bull Run. south of Charlestown, and after a running fight of several miles, recaptured our men and horses, and captured Lieuten- ant Baylor and two of his men and several horses. B. F. Kelly, Major-General Commanding. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, Robert C. Schenck, Major-General Commanding. After being interrogated by General Schenck as to my whereabouts when he chased Jackson up the Valley, and politely informing him I was at Cross Keys and Port Re- public, we were ordered to be taken to the Provost Mar- shal's office. My comrades and myself being more of the stature of David than of Saul, and very boyish in appearance, were pointed out on the streets of Baltimore as living evi- dence of the fact that Jeff. Davis was robbing the cradle for soldiers, if not the grave. While in the Provost's office a little orange girl, seeing we were prisoners, looked on us with kindness and affection, and her little heart burning with sympathy and compassion, quietly approached us, while the guard's attention was turned, and from her scanty store, gathered by work, priva- tion, and suffering, handed each of us an orange, and when offered pay, refused to accept. How much good there is in the world w^e wot not of. Her little act was more than a sermon. This little waif of the street had taught us the kinship of all men. CHAPTER VII. Three were in a dungeon cast, Of whom this wretch is left the last. Byron, After several hours in the Provost's office, an officer appeared (I learned he was the Provost Marshal, Colonel Fish,), who, seeing us sitting there, said, in an insolent and contemptuous manner, '' What are you doing here? Get out of here! Guard, take these rebels to the guard-house.'' I longed then to have a chance to repay that scoundrel his gratuitous insult. But as he is now receiving the just reward of his actions, I can only wish the penitentiary may reform him. Just here, I cannot refrain from giving an extract from my father's diary, of date January 25, 1864, when he was a prisoner at Fort McHenry. He says: ** My paper was put into my tent, as usual, and I learned from it that the former Provost Marshal, Colonel Fish, was confined a prisoner in his own negro jail, where he had ruth- lessly confined so many of his fellow-men. Retribution is sure. ' Vengeance is mine, I will repay, saith the Lord.' Although I have reasons for believing Colonel Fish has been very vindictive towards me, I feel for him in his suffering and degradation. It cannot benefit me to have him punished, and if he has a family my sympathies are with them." The station-house was a dirty, filthy place, an unfit habita- tion for human beings. Shortly after our incarceration there, .two drunken women were placed in an adjoining cell, sepa- rated from us by an iron-grated door, and Coleman, who had never seen a drunken woman before, seemed to enjoy their alternating extremes of piety and wickedness. [91] ^2 Bull Run to Bull Run, About 6 P. M. our cell was unlocked and a squad of soldiers appeared, who conducted us to Fort McHenry and put us in an old stable there, used then as a military prison, where we met some thirty Confederates, among the number Strother Davis, brother of ex-Sheriff Davis. This building was full of vermin, and I roosted on a roof-brace, preferring to risk my neck at this altitude rather than sleep in the infected quarters below. Our fare here was exceedingly hard. Black water, called coffee, and hard-tack, for breakfast and supper, and bean soup for dinner. No meat was cooked with the beans, and none was necessary, for the worms in the beans furnished the requisite grease. The coffee was made in the same camp-kettle as the soup, without rinsing, and appeared with a greasy scum on top. Is Moro Castle worse than this? On the second day after our installation in this stable, most of the privates, including Manning and Coleman, were taken to City Point for exchange, but in a few hours others took their places. Imprisonment in this foul hole soon became unbearable, and I determined to attempt an escape. Preparatory thereto, my jacket was stripped of all insignia of office, and dirt rubbed in where the braid was torn off, to make it appear old and shabby as the rest. My intention was confided to a few of our men, who I felt could be implicitly trusted, and who promised all help possible. In a few days another exchange boat appeared at the wharf to take off prisoners for exchange, and, as their names were being called and they were passing out by the guard, I answered to one of the names and passed the sentinel unchallenged. We were marched to the boat and embarked for the trip. But an evil genius presided over my destiny that day. I had been on the boat about half an hour, when I was startled by a call for me, and, looking up, I saw it proceeded from a Federal officer. It unfortunately happened that a couple of ladies from Baltimore came to the fort and asked for permission to see me, which was granted, and the officer Lucien Chamberlain. (^4 Btill Run to Bull Run. was sent to the stable for me and found the horse out. Sus- pecting that I had escaped among the privates he came to the boat and called me. No answer being made he com- menced a tour through the prisoners. Being small and kept apprized of his movements, I eluded his vigilance, until his patience was exhausted. Asserting that he knew I was on the boat, he ordered all our men off. I went with them and fell in in the rear rank on shore, trusting he would be unable to identify me. On the first round he passed me by, and my spirits rose; but on his second tour, he slapped me on the shoulder and said, " You are my man,'' and my heart went down into my boots. He ordered a file of soldiers to take me before General Morris, the commandant of the fort, which they did, and reported my attempt to escape. The old Gen- eral, turning to me, said : " I am informed you have been trying to escape." " Yes, General," I said, " but you are too much of a soldier to blame me for that." " Oh, no; I do not blame you," he said, '' but we will have to take better care of you. Guard, put him into the left of the sally-port." I was not much versed in military lore, and did not realize my destination until it was reached and 1 found myself in a dun- geon under the parapet. I soon discovered I was not alone. It was too dark to see faces, so I inquired who were my fellow- prisoners. My first acquaintance was James Tilghman, from the Eastern Shore of Maryland, a very clever gentleman, I soon ascertained. As I was giving him a narrative of myself, Ben Whittington raised up from a corner, exclaiming, " Lieu- tenant, is that you? " I recognized Ben's voice and gave him a cordial greeting. I ascertained from him that he was charged with being a spy, horse-thief, and guerrilla. Tilgh- man was charged with burning some Federal boats. We slept on the fioor, with only one blanket to cover us, and did not dream of marble halls, although our bed was about as hard as that material. Of these three inmates, I am the only survivor. Tilghman after a long imprisonment, was sent South, became a o^allant soldier in the Marvland line. Bull Run to Bull Run, g^ and died in Queen Anne's county,, Maryland, some ten years ago. Ben Whittington died in this county about five years ago. The morning after I was put in the dungeon, when the officer of the guard came around and inspected our cell, I called his attention to the fact that Ben was a member of our company, and a regular Confederate soldier. He promised to look into the matter, and in a few days Ben was taken out of the cell, and, as I learned, exchanged on the next exchange day. During the day the guard would open the door and allow us a little light and air, and though the place was very dreary, it was more comfortable than the old stable. After being there several days I was taken before General Morris, who said he had learned that my father was a prisoner at Fort Delaware, and asked if I would like to join him. I told him if I had to remain a prisoner I would, of course, pre- fer to be with him. He then promised to send me up on the first boat. While in this cell I was permitted to see friends calling for me, and I shall ever remember with kindness the good people of Baltimore. On one occasion I received a visit from Misses Lee and Crichton, accompanied by the brother of the latter, Malcolm Crichton, who brought me some dainties and sub- stantials. Mr. Crichton, observing that I was without an overcoat, took ofif his own and generously insisted I should take it, which, though reluctantly accepted, was sorely needed. He may have forgotten his act of kindness and the recipient of it, but it has been warmly treasured by me, and I trust he may one day hear those comforting words, " I was naked and ye clothed me, in prison and ye visited me.'' While at Fort McHenry I made the acquaintance of Lieu- tenant Morris, nephew of the General, and a member of the Eighth New York Artillery, which was stationed for some time at Harper's Ferry, to whom I am indebted for many little courtesies. p6 Bull Run to Bull Run. On the 23d of February I was taken out of this cell, and, with some officers from the stable, put on board of a boat and taken to Fort Delaware, landing there in the night, and great was my father's surprise to meet me. Though he had learned of my imprisonment, he little dreamed that Fort Delaware would be my Bastile. He received me very joy- ously, but did not, kill the fatted calf, as his herd was exceed- ingly small and thin at this time. My father kept a diary during his twenty months of impris- onment, and a chapter from it will not be uninteresting : '' Tuesday, February 24th. — Was disturbed last night by the arrival of 18 prisoners from Fort McHenry — Captain Emmett Alorrison, Company C, Fifteenth Virginia infantry; Captain J. P. Cooper, Company E, Fifth Tennessee; Captain W. T. Marberry, Company C, Thirty-third Tennessee; Lieu- tenant J. B. Milam, Company A, Fifth Tennessee; George W. Purvis, Ewell's escort; George F. Everhart, Company A, White's Battalion; J. H. Eldridge, Company A, Thirty-sec- ond Virginia; George Baylor, Company B, Twelfth Virginia cavalry, and ten political prisoners. My son came into my room. All the officers and Purvis came into our mess. The remainder joined mess No. 2. All settled down and soon became verv sociable. '' February 25th. — I have added to my bed and taken George with me. No news to-day. Every one very sociable. '' February 26th. — Colonel Perkins, Adjutant Commel, and Quartermaster Clarke visited our rooms. Colonel Perkins was very polite and accommodating. He requested me to act as inspector of the rooms and see that they were properly cleaned. We are getting along quite comfortably and cheer- fully. '' February 27th. — All hands cleaning out and scouring rooms. " February 28th. — Ready for inspection. Colonel Perkins, Captain Stephenson, Captain Young, Adjutant Commel, and Quartermaster Clarke came up and inspected our quarters Bull Run to Bull Run. p/ and pronounced them clean and in good order. John O. Murray received two boxes from Baltimore, containing three hams, bread, apples, etc. The old clerk, James R. Gemmil, returned to his post, having been absent for ten days on a visit to Pittsburg, his home. " Sunday, March ist. — Colonel Perkins absent and Major Burton commanding post. " March 2d. — Received a letter from my wife and wrote to Margaret Aisquith and Miss Maria Cheeseborough. '' March 3d. — Wrote to Colonel Perkins to permit us to- walk out to-day. Wrote to my son Richard at Petersburg, per flag of truce. Colonel Perkins kindly granted permission,, and we walked out on the beach for an hour under an escort of two soldiers. We had permission to remain three hourSy but it being raw, we only remained one. Received a letter from Miss Cheeseborough to-day, also one from Dr. Worrel, with a box of thread, tape, buttons, etc., sent to me by a Maryland lady. Miss Annie Comegys, Kent county. Wrote to Miss Cheeseborough, Dr. Worrel, and William Seevers. Drew draft on William R. Seevers, in favor of Miss E. B. Cheeseborough, for $50. Sent Dr. Worrell $2 to pay for Enquirer. " March 4th. — New order this morning, requiring us to give up all our money. I handed over to clerk $16 and George $10. " March 5th. — George wrote to Maggie and I enclosed a note to my wife. All in good spirits expecting to hear of general defeat of Yankee army before Vicksburg. " March 6th. — Wrote to Miss Annie Comegys, Kent county, Md., thanking her for a box. Received letter from Mrs. Egerton, Baltimore, notifying me of a box of eatables sent prisoners. An accident occurred yesterday by the dis- charge of a gun in the hands of a sentinel, resulting in the death of one Dutch abolitionist and the wounding of another. " March 7th. — New order to-day; instead of butcher selling us such things as we need, as has been the custom, it must 7 p8 Bull Run to Bull Run. now be handled bv Lieutenant Harris, the Provost Marshal. Presume they think us overfed, and would have him inspect our provisions to reduce them. Nothing increases by hand- ling, and I am sure our provisions will not. Received a box from Mrs. Egerton to-day, the Provost Marshal having de- tained it since yesterday. The clothing in the box was all retained bv order of Colonel Perkins. The eatables were more or less mutilated. A nice cold turkey came to us shorn of its breast, it having been amputated by the cormorant Provost. Some of our pies and delicacies also went into his pouch. Had a good supper on the things sent us by the ladies. Colonel Perkins sent us all the clothes over. " March 8th. — Had an interview with Colonel Perkins rela- tive to clothing. Found him disposed to accommodate and grant reasonable requests. " March 9th. — ^Wrote to Mrs. Eger);on and Dr. E. S. Sharpe. Washed out our room and cleaned up generally. Walked out on the island this eviening for an hour. Captains Shearer, Rison, League, Pilot, and Pritchet ordered to Wash- ington. What is to be their fate, we cannot conjecture. " March loth. — Shearer and party left this morning, and George fell heir to Shearer's bed. The number in our room now reduced to three — Murray, George, and myself. Re- ceived letters from my wife. Misses Essie and Maria Cheese- borough. Had addition to our number in the arrival of two Jews from Philadelphia, Jackson and Solomon, arrested as contrabandists. We played a joke on them, by personating Colonel Perkins, making them disclose the whole affair, and ordering them to cells and to take the oath." On this occasion referred to in my father's diary, my father was dressed as Colonel Perkins, Murray was his adjutant, and some six or seven of us composed the Colonel's escort. The Jews' room was entered, and their blockade business extorted from them under threat of immediate death. The oath of allegiance was then offered them. Solomon at once offered Bobart Oookua. 100 Bull Run to Bull Run, to take it, but Jackson refused, saying he was a Southern man. Solomon was so unstable, we named him Reuben, but Jackson we called Judah, by reason of his firmness. Solomon, having agreed to take the oath, was taken out of the room and marched down the hallway to a little closet about five feet square, in which he was put and the door closed, Murray saying, in a stentorian voice, " Sentinel, if he moves in there, shoot him/' We then returned to our rooms, and poor Solo- mon remained in the closet all night, but Jackson was treated with much kindness. In the morning we told Gemmil what we had done, and he, and Jackson, too, enjoyed the joke on Solomon, but Gemmil went to the closet and released him from close confinement. My father, as I have before related, was taken prisoner in December, 1862, before recovering from his wound, and had been retained in prison under charges which had no founda- tion in fact, and were vague and indefinite in character. In vain, from time to time he had urged upon his adversaries a speedy trial, but without favorable result, although, in justice to some of the Federal officers, I will say that they fully recog- nized the injustice which was being done him and asked a hearing for him. In the War of the Rebellion, Official Records, note the following correspondence regarding him : Adjutant-General's Office, Washington, D. C., January 2y, 1863. Colonel William Hoffman, U. S. Army, Commissary-General of Prisoners, Washington, D. C. : Sir, — Please inform this office, if within your knowledge, whether charges have been preferred against Captain Robert W. Baylor, Twelfth Virginia Cavalry, for violation of a flag of truce near Harper's Ferry, Va., about the 6th of February, 1862, and if this officer is in confinement at Fort Delaware. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. T. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant-General. Bull Run to Bull Run. loi General Townsend seems to have been moved by some of the compunctions of the Roman Governor more than eighteen centuries ago, when he said to King Agrippa, " For it seemeth to me unreasonable to send a prisoner and not withal signify the crimes laid against him/' much more Un- reasonable to retain him a prisoner, without granting him a hearing or specifying the nature of the offence. The case after this seems to have fallen into hurtful repose for several months, and then again resurrected. Office of Commissary-General of Prisoners, Washington, April i, 1863: Colonel D. D. Perkins, Commanding Fort Delaware : Colonel : You will receive orders from the headquarters. Middle Department, to forward rebel officers, prisoners of war in your charge, to Lieutenant-Colonel Ludlow, agent for exchange of prisoners at Fort Monroe, for exchange. If it should not be so stated in the order, you will not include with them Captain Robert W. Baylor, who is charged with serious crimes, nor any other officer who may be held on any other charge than that of being in the rebel army. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, William Hoffman, Colonel Third Infantry, Commissarv-General of Prisoners. And on the 7th of April, William H. Ludlow, agent for exchange of prisoners, writes Colonel Hoffman : " Colonel : Will you order an investigation into the case of Captain Baylor, detained at Fort Delaware under charges of murder and violation of a flag of truce, that in case of acquittal he may be sent with other Confederate officers for exchange?'' . And again, on April nth, he writes Colonel Hoffman: " Colonel : All the citizen prisoners delivered to us have been declared exchanged, their equivalents having been de- livered to the Confederates. All the officers delivered to us 102 Bull Run to Bull Run. whose names I have from time to time sent vou have been declared exchanged, their equivalents also having been de- livered. / hope that the case of Captain Baylor may be speedily investigated, that in case of acquittal he may be subject to exchange with other officers/' Colonel Hoffman, on April 12th, writes the Provost Mar- shal of Baltimore : " Sir: On the 22d of December last, Captain Robert W. Baylor, Twelfth Virginia Cavalry, was sent by an order from vour office to Fort McHenrv with a statement that he was charged with murder in having killed one of the men when bearing a flag of truce. If there are any written charges against him in your office, or any evidence by which the charge can be established^ I have to request you will for- ward it to this office, to the end that the case may be investi- gated." Nothing having been done towards the formulation or investigation of any charges, my father sent a petition to Colonel Hoffman, asking an immediate examination into his case, or for an exchange, and while the petition itself is lost, Colonel Hoffman, in a letter to Judge-Advocate-General Hqlt (of Mrs. Surratt fame), refers to it: "I have the honor to refer to you, for your consideration, the petition of Cap- tain Robert W. Baylor, an officer of the rebel army, now a prisoner of war at Fort Delaware, for an investigation of the charges against him, or for his exchange. The accompany- ing papers are all that I have been able to obtain to support the charge against him. Previous to my indorsement of the 1 8th instant, I addressed a letter to the military Provost Marshal of Baltimore, requesting him to furnish me any charges or evidence against Captain Baylor which might be in his office, but to this letter I received no reply. On the 1 8th instant I addressed a letter to Major-General Schenck, commanding Eighth Army Corps, requesting that he would direct that any testimony in the possession of the Provost Bull Run to Bull Run, 103 Marshal of Baltimore, or any other officer, bearing upon the case of Captain Baylor, should be forwarded to this office; but to this letter also I have received no reply, .and I am therefore compelled to submit the case in this imperfect con- dition.'' Colonel Ludlow, on April 30th, again writes Colonel Hoff- man : '' If the case of Captain Baylor, confined at Fort Delaware, has not been examined, I would recommend that it be as soon as practicable. The effect of keeping the release of a Confederate officer suspended on charges is always to retain one of our own officers in confinement, for while official notice of retaliation is not given, I am satisfied that such retaliation is really practiced." Colonel Ludlow was correct in his supposition. An officer of equal rank was retained by the Confederate Government in confinement at Libby Prison to await the action of the Federal authorities in my father's case, but I have always thought that the real power behind the throne with Colonel Ludlow, who was agent for exchange of prisoners at Fort Monroe, was my father's nephew. Colonel Thomas G. Baylor, of the United States army, who was stationed at that time at that place, and whom I know was exerting all his influence to effect his release and exchange. CHAPTER VIII. Lake Leman lies by Chillon's walls, A thousand feet in depth below Its massy waters meet and flow. Byron. Fort Delaware is situated on an island near the mouth of the Delaware river. During the war a ferry-boat plied be- tween the island and the mainland at Delaware city. While I was a prisoner there, the Confederate officers were confined in the interior of the fort. The rooms occupied by the prison- ers opened on a long hall, which led to a broad stairway lead- ing to the ground floor. At the head of this stairway senti- nels were placed to confine us to the apartments above. There was also a stairw^ay leading above to the parapet. From this parapet to the water below was probably forty feet. The windows of our apartments opened on the water and were secured with iron bars. The rooms were comfortable, though scant of furniture. The prisoners had free access to each other, and visiting was allowed at all times. The number con- fined in the interior of the fort during my stay did not exceed twenty or fall below twelve. There was on duty at the fort a German regiment, and those with whom we were thrown in contact seemed clever enough. Some of the Federal offi- cers paid us frequent visits, and were, with a few exceptions, kind and considerate. Colonel Perkins was commandant, and his clerk, Gemmil, was in our quarters daily and entered into many of our sports. Through him our mail was sent and received, it being inspected by him in going out and coming in, to prevent contraband matters. No rations were furnish- ed us, but, in lieu thereof, a commutation of sixteen cents a day, with liberty to buy. We divided into messes, and our [104] George Oreaton. io6 Bull Run to Btill Run. mess had as .cook one of our men, held on some trumped-up charge, and who was glad to get on the interior of the fort, as those without were treated very harshly. Our townsman, J. Ogden Murray, was our commissary-general, and with a little aid to our commutation money from our individual means and the charity of lady friends, we lived, compared with those at other prisons, comfortably. We varied the monotony of prison with cards, drafts, chess and backgammon, which aided materially in relieving the tedium. The few books in our store were eagerly de- voured, and the Bible was not forgotten. At times we played pranks of various sorts on each other. One of our prisoners. Lieutenant Tormey, of the First Maryland, was quite a con- ceited youth, and spent much of his time in regaling us with episodes concerning his many sweethearts in Baltimore. Mur- ray and myself, by treasuring up Tormey's revelations, soon knew Tormey's sweetheart about as well as Tormey himself, and conceived the idea of personating her and inditing to Tormey a fervent epistle. With the aid of Gemmil, who readily entered into the scheme, we wrote the letter, got Gem- mil to copy, stamp, and deliver it to Tormey. How Tormey's spirits revived on the reception of it ! He was so full of it he could not keep the secret, so he made us his confidants. He was kept busy several days composing an answer, which he finally delivered to Gemmil for inspection and mail. Gemmil gave us a copy and mailed the original, but whether the young lady received it or not we never knew. She certainly did not answer it, but we did, keeping up a brisk correspond- ence for some weeks, and doing Tormey as much good as if the letters had been genuine. He did not discover the cheat until a few days before our departure, and, good-natured soul that he was, took it all very kindly. Not so with Lieutenant Purvis, upon whom we played a similar joke, who, when he found us out, refused to speak to Murray, my father, or myself, until the day of our departure, when he relented and forgave us. Bull Run to BtUl Run, 107 In the last chapter I quoted my father's diary to March loth. I will now resume and continue to the date of our separation : March nth. — Ground covered with snow. No news. March 12th. — Colonel Perkins sent for me to-day relative to the removal of all privates from our quarters into the outer barracks. I tried the Mason on him to-day, and he responded promptly. March 13th.— Two of our officers left us for Fort McHenry to be exchanged — Captain Cooper and Lieutenant Milam. They took leave of us at 7 P. M. The remaining officers much dejected at being left behind. March 14th. — Arose about 7 A. M. Made up my fire and bed, took a good bath and dressed. Our house looks some- what deserted this morning. Wrote to Misses Heiskell and Clements, two ladies of Philadelphia, who had sent me their photographs. Got a bottle of cod-liver oil and whiskey from surgeon. March 15th. — My thirteenth Sunday in prison. Snowing fast. March i6th. — Received box from my friend, Miss Cheese- borough, containing suit of clothes for George, pair of shoes, travelling shirt, two pairs of socks, two towels, chest protec- tor, necktie, and ball of soap, and for me 40 paper collars, two silk handkerchiefs, pair of suspenders, two crash towels, five pairs shoestrings, teapot, tea, sugar, crackers, butter and jelly. Provost-Marshal Harris retained George's travelling shirt, necktie, and chest protector. He also retained all the articles sent Murray, Ryle, Blanton, Marberry, Cooper, Milam, and Purvis. Captain Marberry received a very nice box of eatables from Miss Warner, of Tennessee. Received letter from my wife to-day. March 17th. — Colonel Perkins permitted George to have the travelling shirt made for him by Miss Maria Cheese- borough. Wrote home. io8 Bull Run to Bull Run. March i8th. — ^The boys sold Lieutenant Purvis badly. He wrote to Mrs. Beall some days ago and expressed much affec- tion for her. They answered the letter for her and feigned that it was a proposal of marriage, and that she accepted his offer. He answered the letter, explaining to her that she had misconstrued his language and intentions; that they were not those of love, but of esteem. After his letter had been forwarded to Mrs. Beall, he discovered it was a joke of the boys. Permission was granted Morrison, Murray, George, and myself to visit Mrs. Weaver and Mrs. Hays, from Baltimore, at the Colonel's office. I did not avail myself of the privilege. The others did. The ladies brought them a box of provisions. March 19th. — George wrote to Miss Maria Cheeseborough yesterday. They numbered our rooms. My number is 6. We walked out this evening on the island. March 20. — Arose and made the fire, as usual, and made up my bed. George and Murray in bed asleep. Purvis re- ceived a box of things, eatables, etc., from Mrs. James, of Baltimore. Received letter from my wife to-day. News from my county gloomy. March 21. — As usual, had to make up my fire. George and Murray in bed. March 22. — We walked out on the parapet in the after- noon. A beautiful day. March 23. — ^Arose and made my fire. George and Murray in bed. Received a letter from Mrs. Eliza Cheeseborough, of Philadelphia. It breathes the language of true and disin- terested friendship. I cannot express the deep gratitude I owe to this strange lady and her two daughters for their great kindness to me since I have been in prison in this fort. March 24. — All hands washing out room. No news to-day. Walked out on island. March 25. — Suffering with rheumatism. Held court to- day and convicted Murray and Kyle of improper conduct. Received a letter from my nephew, Captain Thomas G. Bay- Bull Run to Bull Run, lop lor, from Fortress Monroe, stating that all prisoners cap- tured before January 12, 1863, would be exchanged. March 26th. — All lively this morning, buoyed up with the hope of a speedy exchange. This day has been set apart by President Davis as a day of thanksgiving in the Confederate States. I observed it here in my prison. March 27th. — Time passes more heavily as the days in- crease in length and the spring advances. Wrote to Miss Cheeseborough. March 28th. — Suflfering with rheumatism and down in spirits. No news. March 29th. — Still suflfering with rheumatism. My fifteenth Sunday in prison. March 30th. — ^All hands scrubbing out to-day, expecting a new commandant to take charge to-morrow. All in high spirits. The papers state an exchange of ofificers has been agreed upon. George received a letter from Miss Maria Cheeseborough, one from Mrs. Egerton, and one from Jennie Rutherford. March 31st. — We were aroused by the arrival of 23 addi- tional prisoners — Dr. Jesse Stocker, Mr. P. H. Rouss, Dr. Robert A. Lucas, Captain James W. Glenn, and Robert Lucas, Jr., from Jeflferson county. The others are from Lou- doun and Botetourt counties and city of Baltimore. We took Dr. Stocker and Mr. Rouss into our room. Nine of the gen- tlemen joined our mess. About 12 o'clock an order was received to remove all the prisoners who arrived last night to other apartments. Wt parted with our friends with much reluctance, knowing they will be far less comfortable than they would be with us. To-day is inspection day. Our quarters were visited by the Colonel and his staflf. The Colonel, as usual, was very polite, and told us that he thought we would all be exchanged in a few days, and that he would leave us for more active service in a day or so. Captain Stanislaus McClowskis made me a present of a nice silk tobacco purse and tobacco; the purse was knit by his no Bull Run to Bull Run. wife. Captain McClowskis is a Prussian. Sent over five blankets to our countymen in prison. Captain McClowskis thought some of our countymen had tarn bad physiosiqiies. April 1st. — The prisoners sent to the fort yesterday are charged with being secret enemies, spies, horse-thieves, and traitors, and kept in close confinement. Paid my mess bill for month of March, cash $4.33, and commutation $4.96, making $9.29 each for the month. We are all expecting to leave. April 2d. — ^The Adjutant came up this morning and took down the names of all the officers and privates here for ex- change, and notified me that I would not be exchanged. Very great disappointment to me. The order for my detention read as follows: "Captain George Baylor (meaning Robert), a prisoner at Fort Delaware, is charged with violating a flag of truce and murder, and will be retained in confinement." George W. Purvis was also detained. They all went off this evening in good spirits. Purvis moved into my room. We are left sole heirs of all the plunder. Colonel Perkins came up to see me this evening and promised to do what h^ could for me in Washington. George received a letter from Julia to-day. I will answer it to-morrow. The parties who went off to-day were Captains Price, Marberry and Morrison, Lieutenants Kyle, Blanton, Murray, Tormey and Baylor, and all the privates. Purvis and myself passed the night very quietly. Received from Mrs. Egerton one box of cheese, six hams, four beef tongues, one dozen jars of pickles, and three bottles of essence of ginger. Wrote to Captain Thomas G. Baylor by Grcorge. April 3d. — A very fine day for the boys to go down the bay. I made an earnest appeal this morning to Colonel Buchanan (our new commandant) to have removed to our quarters Captain Glenn, Mr. Rouss, Drs. Stocker and Lucas^ and R. Lucas, Jr. He said he would give my application a favorable consideration. Received a very kind letter from Miss Nannie Comegys, of Chestertown, Md. Robert. T. Orai^hlll. 112 Bull Run to Bull Run, Before giving an account of my journey, after leaving Fort Delaware, I wish to explain a portion of my father's diary. It is very patent that the expression for several mornings, " George and Murray are in bed asleep," was intended as a reflection on our conduct. Filial duty may have required me under other circumstances to have risen early and made the fire, but sleep was the greatest comfort enjoyed in prison, and I often remonstrated with my father for his early rising and begged him to permit me to sleep away as much of prison life as possible. Indeed, making the fire was a pleasure, for I craved some occupation and employment. The petition mentioned in my father's diary was not granted, and our countymen were closely confined on the exterior of the fort, in miserable barracks, and very inhu- manly treated. After we left Fort Delaware for exchange my father con- tinued to press his c&se upon the attention of the Federal authorities, and on May i, 1863, Colonel Hoffman, Commis- sarv-General of Prisoners, writes General Schenck : '' General : Permit me again to ask your attention to the case of Captain Baylor, a prisoner of war at Fort Delaware. He is charged with the commission of a very obnoxious crime, and it is very desirable, if possible, to obtain evidence that will convict him. In the letter of Major A. G. A. Con- stable, Provost Marshal at Baltimore, of December 22, 1862, addressed to General Morris when Captain Baylor was sent to Fort McHenry, charges have been made, he having killed one of our men while bearing a flag of truce, and it is sup- posed that the Major may be able to point to some source where the necessary evidence may be procured. The Judge- Advocate-General cannot decide as to what disposition shall be made of him until it is ascertained whether the charges against him are true or false, and as the negotiations for the exchange of our officers are embarrassed by the detention of Captain Baylor, I have respectfully to request you will direct such reports to be made by his captors, giving the names of Bull Run to Bull Run, 113 the witnesses, as will establish whether he is guilty or not. I beg your early attention to this matter." On the 1 6th of May, General Schenck answers Colonel Hoffman's letter as follows: " The prisoner, Captain Baylor, killed a man named Roher under a flag of truce at Harper's Ferry. Colonel Schley (William Louis), from Point of Rocks, telegraphs that he will send statement in full, and that witnesses can be obtained w^ithout trouble. Communicate this to Judge-Advocate." This was the first definite information received concerning the charge, and it came from a certain Colonel William Louis Schley, who, according to the Federal Secretary of War, was guilty of a more heinous crime than that he attempted to fasten upon an innocent prisoner. His great manifestation of zeal in the cause of his country appears as a cloak to cover his own infamy and treachery, for on the 6th of June, 1863, Secretary Stanton wires General Kelly at Harper's Ferry and Colonel Fish at Baltimore: " Captain Alexander, Provost Marshal of Richmond, and three, perhaps four, other rebel spies, some in the military service, are or were yesterday in Washington, and design leaving here for Richmond or Culpeper to-day or to-night. They will probably go by Point of Rocks, Berlin, or Harper's Ferry, probably Berlin. Alexander has a large amount of Confederate money and plans of the forts around Washington and other valuable papers. He will be disguised. Some officer at Berlin or Harper's Ferry is treacherous and acting with them. They say Colonel Schley is the man, and also that Captains Means and Marsh will pass them. Colonel Schley and Captains Means and Marsh should be watched, and every method taken that your skill and experience can devise." Among my father's papers I find a statement of Colonel Schley to General Schenck, in which he denounces my father 8 114 Bull Run to Bull Run, in the bitterest terms, and says that all the people of Harper's Ferry would be glad to have him punished and would testify against him, and in accordance with his wishes, on May 22, 1863, my father was sent to Harper's Ferry for trial by Fed- eral court-martial, and this court having heard all the evidence in the case, adjourned to meet again on the 15th of June to report its findings, and it so happening that General Jackson appeared near there about that time, the court dis- appeared, and no further action was had by this court, and my father, growing weary of continued confinement, wrote the following letter: Fort McHenry, July 13, 1863. Colonel Hoffman, Commissary-General of Prisoners, Washington City: Sir, — At the interview I had with you on the i6th of April last at Fort Delaware, you assured me that my case should receive your earliest attention. I am still a prisoner, having been held in confinement seven months. On the 22d of May, I was sent to Harper's Ferry for trial by a court-martial. The court did not meet until the 3d day of June, and, without proceeding to business, ad- journed to the 8th instant. On the 12th the evidence was closed, and the court adjourned to meet on the i6th. On the 15th, I was sent to this fort, where I am still held in confine- ment, no action being had in my case. The evidence clearly and positively proves that the boat had no Hag of truce, and never did carry a Hag of truce; that the parties in the boat were not soldiers; that they were heavily armed; that one of them attempted to fire; that they were engaged in an illegal and unlaw- ful business; that they zvere spies, and there was no evidence that I had anything to do zvith the affair. It is therefore extremely unjust that I should longer be detained in confinement. Lieutenant-Colonel D. D. Perkins, who was chief of Major-General Banks's staff, afterwards commandant of Fort Delaware, was conversant with the whole affair, and called at the department in Washington about the middle of April last, and wrote to the Adjutant at Fort Delaware to inform me that he had explained the trans- action to the satisfaction of the Department, and that I would Bull Run to Bull Run, 115 be exchanged. I desire to call your attention to the case, in order to have a speedy decision. Having been severely wounded by a shot through my lungs, previous to my capture, the long confinement I have had to suffer has made me an invalid for life. Let me ask your earliest attention to my case. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Robert W. Baylor, Captain Twelfth Virginia Cavalry, C. S. A. The foregoing letter bears the following indorsements: Office Commissary-General of Prisoners, Washington, July 17, 1863. Respectfully referred to Major-General Schenck, com- manding Middle Department. W. Hoffman, Colonel Third Infantry, Commissary-General of Prisoners. Headquarters Eighth Army Corps, Baltimore, Md., July 28, 1863. Respectfully returned to Brigadier-General W. W. Mor- ris. The court-martial for the trial of Captain Baylor was only suspended or adjourned in consequence of the arrival of his friends in the neighborhood of Harper's Ferry, thus inter- rupting the proceedings. That court will have to be reas- sembled to resume the trial, or another court ordered and convened to which the case may be submitted. By command of Major-General Schenck. VV. H. Cheeseborough, Assistant Adjutant-General. This letter of July i6th effected no favorable result, and my father addressed Colonel Hoffman the following letter: Fort McHenry, October 7, 1863. Colonel Hoffman, Commissary-General of Prisoners, \\^ashington, D. C. : Sir, — I addressed you, through the commanding officer of this fort, on the 13th of July last, calling your attention to my case. On the 8th of August I addressed a communi- cation, through the same officer, to the Secretary of War, ii6 Bull Run to Bull Run, asking him to have my case referred to the Judge-Advocate- General for a decision, if proper; or that I might be sent to Brigadier-General Kelley, commanding at Harper's Ferry, to be paroled to go to my home, inside of the Federal lines, on account of my infirm health from long confinement, until a final decision could be had. I again addressed you on the 26th of August, referring you to my letter of August the 8th to the Secretary of War, asking you to take some action to- wards efifecting my final discharge and exchange. Not having heard from you, I am constrained to address you again, hoping that some action may be had in my case. Justice asks it; humanity demands it; God enjoins it; " do unto all men as vou would thev shouid do unto vou.'' I have been in confinement ten months. The evidence in my case has all been taken and recorded, and as I stated to you in my letter of July 13th, to which I refer you, there is not a particle of evidence to criminate me. There zcas no flag of truce; the parties zcere not soldiers, hut spies, and it was positively proven that I was in Charlestown, eight miles from the place where the crime, with which 1 am charged, took place. I was cap- tured prior to any interruption of exchan^-es, and all officers captured long since have been exchanged. I am entitled to my exchange, as soon as the charges against me can be re- moved. I certainly have been detained sufficiently long to have had a full and fair investigation, and should not be made to sufifer when innocent. Permit me to urge this matter, hoping that you may give it your earliest attention. Very respectfully, Robert W. Baylor, Captain Twelfth Virginia Cavalry, C. S. A. This letter is indorsed as follows : Approved by command of Colonel Porter, commanding fort. H. R. (Cannot decipher name). Assistant Adjutant-General. Headquarters Eighth Army Corps, Department of Baltimore, Fort McHenry, October 8, 1863. Respectfully forwarded through Department Headquar- ters Eighth Army Corps to the Commissary-General of Prisoners. " P. A. Porter, Colonel, Commanding Fort. Jos. H. Eaaterday. iiS Bull Run to Bull Run, The following reply was received : Office of Commissary-General of Prisoners, Washington, D. C, October 13, 1863. Colonel Porter, Commanding Fort McHenry, Baltimore, Md. : Colonel, — Please say to Captain Baylor that his several letters have all been laid before the proper authorities, and he must wait their action. His letter of the 7th will be duly attended to, and final action in his case hastened as much as possible. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W.. Hoffman, Colonel Third Infantry, Commissarv-General of Prisoners. CHAPTER IX. It might be months, or years, or days, I kept no count — I took no note; At last, men came to set me free, I asked not why and reck'd not where. Byron. In justice to officers and men on duty there, I must record the fact that, excepting in a few instances, our treatment while at Fort Delaware was such as reflects credit on them, and deserves commendation. James N. Gemmil, clerk to the commandant, with whom we had daily intercourse, could not have been more genial, pleasant, and considerate of our feelings and welfare had he been a kinsman and brother. If he has not met his reward in this life, I feel assured his good deeds will speak with trumpet tongues in his behalf when he stands before the great judgment seat. The noble women whose names are mentioned in these pages, though strangers to us, were un- tiring in their efforts to ameliorate our condition and soften the asperities of prison life, and what human effort could do, they cheerfully and generously did. The recording angel has written their names above, and their treasure is laid up " where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, nor thieves break through nor steal." Fair hands may strew our graves with flowers, but these noble women have softened our hard- ships and filled our lives with their generous deeds — which is far better. Sympathy and tenderness shown the living is above all the scutcheons on the tomb. Crown my life with blessings. The dead need no friends, " for in death there is no remembrance of thee; in the grave who shall give thee thanks? " I want your love just while I live, While I can still that love return; It will not joy or comfort give When lamp of life has ceased to burn. [119] 120 Bull Run to Bull Run. When the soldier's companion falls. He waits to see the pause of life, Then onward goes where duty calls, And drowns his woe in battle strife. Thus when 'tis fate for me to die, Breathe but one sigh for memory dear. And gently close the fading eye, Affection asks not e'en a tear. Pluck not, I pray, the wild flowers' bloom. Nor chaplet wreathe or rustic crown,: — To deck a cold and lifeless tomb. Where mortal dust alone is found. Can sweetest flowers illume the grave. Or cheer or bless the tenant there; Knows he the hand that loving gave Those flowers so beautiful and fair? I can as calm and sweetly sleep. In death's silent, reposing lair. Without a friend to sigh or weep. Or place in love a rosebud there. But love me, friends, while I can still Clasp hand with hand in kinship given, Meet heart with heart in joyous thrill. And feel this earth is nearing heaven. While I longed for freedom, it grieved me much to leave my father in prison, an invalid suffering from his wound, and retained under charges to be tried by a military commission, needing only accusation to insure conviction. I earnestly urged Colonel Perkins to release him, but was informed by that officer that he had no discretion in the matter; that orders had proceeded from a higher source. He promised, however, to intercede for his trial or exchange, which promise I believe he faithfully kept. On the evening of April 2, 1863, ^ bade farewell to my father, Purvis, and Fort Delaware, our little party boarded a steamer bound for Baltimore, and were landed the following morning at Fort McHenry. Lieutenant Morris, whose acquaintance had been made while a prisoner at this fort, met Bull Run to Bull Run. 121 me at the landing, and kindly gave me parole of the fort, and extended me many little courtesies and attentions. 1 found there my friend, Captain W. B. Compton, now a prominent lawyer in Harrisonburg, Va., detained under charges which I deemed trivial, but upon which he was after- wards tried by a military commission and sentenced to be hung; which penalty he evaded by a miraculous escape from his cell a few days before his execution was to have taken place, and after his gallows had been erected. Note from my father's diary the following : " May 16, 1864. — Last night five of our officers, who were in the interior cell (Compton, Dorsey, Shearer, Lamar, and Gubbins), made their escape by cutting a hole through the roof and getting over the parapet.'' And on the 25th of May the following: " I was awakened from my slumber by the noise of a large body of armed men drawn up in a hollow square around the gallows erected to hang Captain VV. B. Compton, who made his escape a few days ago. In a moment I discovered the victim was Leopold, a Confederate officer tried and convicted by a military commission held at this place last February, since which time he has been confined in a cell. I learned the sentence was read to him this morning just before they brought him out to ascend the scaffold. Our officers were all aroused from their beds to witness the execution. Leopold ascended the scaffold firm and undaunted. He said he died in defence of his country, for which he was willing to part with his life without a murmur. He trusted that God would yet give her independence and liberty. He then pointed to General Morris, who was present on horseback, and said that the old gray-headed gentleman there was the cause of his death; that he was about to suffer a felon's death, but God was the Judge, not he; that he forgave General Morris, and hoped to meet him in Heaven. He waved his handkerchief twice to the Confederate officers, offered a prayer to God, f^^ Bull Run to Bull Run. and tlien told them he was ready. EHjah Brown, of the Second United States Infantry (Company I), who had volun- teered as the Jack Ketch, adjusted the rope, went down and touched the spring, and at 5 130 A. M. he was launched into eternity. He died bravely and without a struggle. He was allowed to hang thirty minutes, when he was taken do\vn and carried to the dead-house. General Wallace and his staff, who had come out from Baltimore, remained on the ground until the bodv was taken down. General Morris rode off m as soon as the trap-door fell. Leopold died as a brave man should do, ])raying first for his country, then for his widowed mother and familv, and, lastlv, for himself.'* Andrew Leoi)()ld was a gallant young soldier from the vicinity of She])herdstown, arid enlisted in the beginning of the war in Company F, First Virginia Cavalry (Colonel Mor- gan's com])any). His mother is still alive, and resides now in Washington county, Md. After his execution his body was taken to She])herdstown, and is interred in the Confederate lot in the cemetery there. Is it strange that General Lew Wallace fled so i)reci])itately at Monocacy? The ghost of the murdered Leoi)ol(l, no doubt, appeared to him there. On the (lay following our landing at Fort McHenrj'', some eighteen officers, including our Fort Delaware contingent, were i)ut down in the hold of a boat bound from Baltimore for Norfolk, with a lot of our men suffering with small-pox, and not allowed to ])ass above. This precaution was taken evidently to ])revent the passengers on board from knowing" the condition of the prisoners below. On our arrival at Fortress Monroe mv cousin, Colonel Thomas Ci. P)aylor, ordnance officer at that fort, came aboard, took me out of the hold and to the Captain's cabin, and intro- duced me to the Ca])lain, who soon had prepared for me a royal feast, which was doubly enjoyed, as I was without breakfast. Shortly afterwards the prisoners were placed on an exchange boat, where we remained several days before going up to City lV)int. My cousin accompanied me to the Juo. Easterday. 124 ^w^^ ^^^'^ to -Sw// Rim. exchange boat, introduced me to Colonel Mulford, Federal commissioner of exchange, and I was allowed a state-room and treated with great civility. During my stay there my cousin gave me every attention possible, and made my stay exceedingly comfortable. Although he occupied a position of trust in the Federal army, having graduated from West Point just preceding the war, he was as genial and kind as a kinsman could be, and I felt as much at home with him as when years before, at my father's, we had played and hunted together. It was during one of these visits that I met for the first time my little cousin Kate, his daughter, now the wife of a prominent surgeon in the army, stationed at Hot Springs, Ark. Blood is thicker than water, and, not- withstanding the bitterness of the conflict, no unkind feelings were generated between my relatives in the Federal army and myself, or our family, and when the war closed, our ante- bellum intercourse was renewed. On the morning our boat started for City Point, my cousin Tom and his daughter came on board to bid me good-bye, and were present when the guard passed through, searching our officers for everything contraband, which meant every- thing not on their backs and some things that were. I saw my cousin give the officer the wink, and I was passed by un- molested, though having much greater possessions than my brother officers. Such partiality made me feel a little humiliated, but, on second thought, I accepted my good for- tune as part of that luck which seldom failed me during the war. I even brought safely through the pair of spurs Lieu- tenant Hill so kindly permitted me to keep. Our boat weighed anchor, and we were soon sailing up the James, past the wrecks of the Congress and the Cumberland, until we reached Citv Point, where we waited some hours the arrival of our agent of exchange. Some time was ex- pended after his arrival in arranging a cartel, and, at one time, 1 feared that an agreement would not be reached, and that we would have to return. Our fate trembled in the Bull Run to Bull Run. 125 balance. Our hearts sickened at the thought of return, but, happily, matters were finally adjusted and we were landed on Southern soil. My heart leaped with joy when I was turned loose, and realized that I was a free man again. In the ardor of my affection, I knelt down and embraced my Mother Dixie Land. No one like a prisoner, loosed from his bonds, can truly appreciate the boon and blessing of liberty. My Uncle Tom lived a short distance from City Point, and, after bidding farewell to my prison-mates, I started for his home, which was reached in a few hours, and a warm welcome was accorded me. Remaining there a couple of days, I was off for Richmond, where I met many old comrades. Learn- ing that our brigade was encamped near Harrisonburg, I hastened to report for duty and make amends for my ** absence without leave." General Jones greeted me with a cordial shake of the hand, saying, " Well, George, I think the Yankees have punished you sufficiently for your escapade, and I will let you off." I found in camp my horse and equipments awaiting my return. A few days after joining my regiment our brigade started on the famous raid through West Virginia, and 1 was careful thereafter to make no more visits North during the remainder of the war. Looking back, 1 do not regret my little prison episode. It gave me an opportunity of seeing that phase of a soldier's Hfe generally esteemed an unpleasant one. It made me fully realize that our world is made up of all sorts of people; some kind, noble, and good; others cruel and inhuman. Experience has taught me, as it has taiight others, that harsh and inhu- man treatment was seldom inflicted by soldiers who had served in the field and facel cannon and musket, but came from home-guards, who had not smelt powder or crossed swords with a foe. Such instincts do not accord with cour- age. '' The bravest are the tenderest.'' Our Fort Delaware contingent, as will be seen by General 126 Bull Run to Bull Run. Halleck's order, made a very narrow escape from prison, for within a few days after our exchange, the Federal and Con- federate Commissioners of Exchange got into a wrang^le over Colonel Streight's officers, captured while raiding through Georgia, and the afifair culminated in the following order and a total cessation of exchange of officers : War Department, Washington, D. C, May 25, 1863. GENERAL ORDER. No Confederate officers will be paroled, or exchanged until further orders. They will be kept in close confinement, and be strongly guarded. Those already paroled will be confined. H. W. Halleck, General-in-Chief My father, who had been sent to Harper's Ferry for trial by court-martial, came under the ban of this general order, and that of a special order, as follows: Baltimore, Md., May 29, 1863. Brigadier-General Kellev, ♦ Harper's Ferry, Va. : Captain Baylor, rebel army, will be placed in close con- finement according to orders. W. H. Cheeseborough, Assistant Adjutant-General. \\nien brought before the court-martial at Harper's Ferry, my father had asked permission to be allowed counsel, and had selected John W. Kennedy, Esq., of Chariest own, a Union man, well known to my father, but the Federal author- ities objected to him, and he then selected Mr. Edwafd Cooke, also of Charlestown, but he, too, was persona non grata, and not permitted to appear, as will be seen by the following letter: Headquarters First Division Eighth Corps, Harper's Ferry, Va., June i, 1863. Sir : I am directed by the General Commanding to acknowl- edge the receipt of your letter of inquiry of to-day, and to Bull Run to Bull Run. 12/ inform you that a general court-martial has been appointed to meet at Harper's Ferry for the trial of yourself upon charges enclosed. I am directed to inform you that Mr. Cooke is more objectionable than Mr. Kennedy as your counsel, and that he has no objection to your employing Mr. Pendleton to act as such. I have the honor to be, very respectfully. Your obedient servant, Robert Adams, Jr., Captain and Assistant Judge-Advocate. What a travesty on justice and fairness. A prisoner being tried fof his life and yet denied his choice of counsel, and told that he must employ an attorney selected by his adver- saries and accusers ! After an abortive attempt at a trial at Harper's Ferry, my father continued a prisoner at Fort McHenry, but his enemies treated him with less rigor, and on the 26th day of December, 1863, he was given the following parole: Fort McHenry, Md., December 26, 1863. I, Robert \V. Baylor, now a prisoner at Fort McHenry, in consideration of being allowed the privilege of the follow- ing grounds — viz. : An area bounded on the north by the sea-wall, on the east by the east lines of the brick stables projected to the water and to within 50 feet of the roadside, then south by a line parallel with the road and distant from the center thereof 75 feet, and on the west by the east line of the easterly long barracks building projected to the water and to within 50 feet of the road, do hereby give my parole of honor to the commanding officer of the post, that I will not pass the limits above described except to go to Mrs. Graham's for my meals; that I will not attempt to escape nor aid others to escape; that I will have no correspondence or communica- tion with any person, except sutlers, hucksters, and washer- women, who shall have received permission to hold such cor- respondence, or with the official of the post. Robert W. Baylor. Given and subscribed before me at Fort McHenry, Md., the 25th day of December, 1863. S. P. Webster, Lieutenant and Commissary of Prisoners. 128 Bull Run to Bull Run, But there is a sad side to a prisoner's life beyond his per- sonal trials and hardships, and I must be pardoned for lifting the veil and intruding for a moment into the domestic affairs of the family. In August, 1863, "^y eldest brother, Richard' (who subsequently fell mortally wounded at Parker's Store, near Fredericksburg, on November 29, 1863,), was married, and my father, then confined at Fort McHenry, was apprized of the fact, and wrote the bride the following touching letter: ** Fort McHenry, Md., August 27, 1863. !' My Dear Daughter: I am pained to think I was deprived of the pleasure of being present to witness and bless the union of my dear son to the fond one of his choice, but I am none the less gratified to receive and welcome you as one of my children, and I shall strive to act towards you as one of my own. You are now leagued together with us not only in as- sociation, sympathy, and family ties, but also in habitation and name. Let us learn, therefore, to bear and forbear one another; to curb our imperiousness, to repress our impatience, to pour oil on the billows, instead of adding fuel to the flame. of passsion, occasioned too often by petty jealousy and com- plaints. Let us start out by bearing with one another's foibles and excitements and by forgiving one another's oflfences and neglects. I hope and trust you will never let any punctilious ceremony prevent you from looking up to me as your dear and only earthly father; but at the same time, my dear daughter, you should not forget you have a Heavenly Father to love and serve, and let me earnestly entreat you to ask His guidance and direction in all your worldly actions and duties, not only to prepare you for the trials of this life, but for death, judgment, and Heaven. I know, if you do, He will give you more comfort and happiness than this world can bestow. Your earthly love may not be less deep and- fervent because it may be subordinate to a love yet higher. '' You have become the partner in life of my dear and devoted son. He has always been a great comfort to me and a most dutiful and obedient son. His wife cannot be other 'Warren D. Entrlleh. .N" Bull Run to Bull Run. xx^vc. My affection for him shall be equally shared by you. N xM< have now new duties and trials. His is a life of great p\Mil i\\n\ danger, and you must not expect to pass through \\\\\ loml)lc struggle of carnage and blood without many l^loomy forebodings, and, perhaps, the loss of what may rtp|»r«r to you as the only tie which binds you to earth; but \\\\\ nnisl struggle against such feelings. You must put your \\\\s{ in (iod and fear not what man may do unto you and \Mnrs. You must pray to God to spare him, and above all In prepare him to meet you in that world where neither death nor strife can harm you, should God, in His wisdom, take him lh»m you. My home is his home, and must be yours until \\v can provide you a better one. My dear wife is your mother; be kind and affectionate to her and try to merit her maternal sympathy and love, and all will work well together. I hi not let slight and trivial irritations mar future happiness. < ind alone knows whether we shall all meet again, and after hII, how few will be the remaining years that can be spent by ine with my children here, compared with that endlesss ett^rnity beyond. I earnestly implore God that it may be His will that we may be united again on this earth, and have many happy hours together; but if He wills it otherwise. He will tearli us to look up and say, ' Thy will be done.' '* My dear wife will give you the news. With much love to ynn and all my dear children, farewell. May God make you happy, bless you both, and prepare you for an endless eternity i^ the prayer of your fond and affectionate father." ( )ur government was not unmindful of its duty in the premises and urged upon the Federal authorities action in my father's case. As early as possible action was taken. A i^'ederal officer held as hostage and Colonel Ould, our agent of exchange, requested of the Federal authorities my father's release. After the trial at Harper's Ferry the following letter was sent : Bull Run to Bull Run. iji Confederate States of America, War Department, Richmond, Va., July i8, 1863. Lieutenant-Colonel William H. Ludlow, Agent of Exchange : Sir, — Some months ago, I called your attention to the case of Captain Robert W. Baylor, who was captured last year in Virginia, and who was held upon some charges. I have understood that after many delays a court was convened in his case, but that he was not allowed to choose his own counsel, or introduce any witnesses in his behalf, who would not take the Federal oath of allegiance. Can you inform me what was the finding of the court in the case, or whether there was any finding, and if there was no finding, what is proposed to be done with Captain Baylor? His case is certainly a very hard one. He is entirely innocent of the charges preferred against him. He has been a prisoner for more than five months and has been very roughly treated. Even now he has no bed and not a seat to sit upon. How do these things happen? I hope this communication will meet a different fate from most of the others wherein I have ventured to make specific inquiries or bring particular cases to your notice. I trust I shall at least receive some answer. Respectfully, your obedient servant, Ro. OULD, Agent of Exchange. As the information requested in this letter was not given, on August 5, 1863, Colonel Ould wrote again: Confederate States of America, War Department, Richmond, Va. Brigadier-General S. A. Meredith, Agent of Exchange : Sir, — On the i8th of July last I addressed two communi- cations to Lieutenant-Colonel William H. Ludlow in relation to Captain R. W. Baylor, Lee A. Dunn, Captain Compton, Major Arnessy, Lieutenant Davis, Captain W. F. Gordon, and Captain Camp. I have received your letter of the 4th 1^2 Bull Run to Bull Run. instant in answer to those communications. May I request of you the favor to read over those communications and ask yourself whether the reply is a frank one? Has one substan- tial inquiry that I made been answerd? I have had occasion frequently heretofore to complain that no -notice was taken of my inquiries. This sort of notice, however, is little better than silence. If your inquiries of me and mine of you are not freely and frankly answered, it is useless for us to write. If a response cannot be given to the inquiry, why cannot at least that be said? I again request that an answer be given to my inquiries of the i8th ultimo. Ro. Ould, Agent of Exchange. These letters and inquiries failed of any favorable result, and my father was still detained as a prisoner, even though some high in authority on the Federal side were satisfied the charges were groundless. On November 17, 1863, Major- General Hitchcock reported " that a careful review of the testimony has led him to the opinon that a verdict of guilty cannot be found on it, and that another trial could not bring out any new evidence, and recommends that Captain Baylor be placed on the footing of an ordinary prisoner of war." But Judge-Advocate-General Holt, the doughty soldier that warred on women and would have crucified the Saviour of mankind, dissents from the opinon of General Hitchcock, and advocates another trial by court-martial. A second court-martial was accordingly convened at Cum- berland in February, 1864, and after the mockery of a trial on the charges: " Charge i. — Violating a flag of truce. " Charge 2. — Murder.'* The specifications of these charges set forth that on the 7th day of February, 1862, the prisoner exhibited, or caused to be exhibited, on the south side of the Potomac river at Harper's Ferry a flag of truce, and thereby induced one George Rohr, a loyal citizen of the United States and in the military service thereof, and in charge of a flag-of-truce boat, to proceed across the river toward such flag, and that when Bull Run to Bull Run, ij^ said boat had arrived at or near the place at which said flag or signal was exhibited it was fired into by the said Baylor or by his command, and the said Rohr was fired at and wounds inflicted on him, of which he died on the said 7th of February, 1862. And, although the evidence showed conclusively that there was no flag waved from the south side of the river, the boat in charge of Rohr was no truce boat, the men in it thoroughly armed, and my father at the time in Charlestown, eight miles distant, the court found a verdict of guilty; but its finding was immediately set aside by General B. F. Kelley, command- ing the department, and his action approved by Secretary of War Stanton, and the prisoner ordered held for exchange. The flag of truce on the south side of the stream was Uncle John Sorrell, a servant of my father's, shouting across the river to the Yankees to come over and get him, that he wanted to get over, and the crew of the boat were pirates and robbers, fully armed, crossing the river for the purpose of aiding and helping Uncle John to escape. But Uncle John was true to his colors, and having accomplished his ruse de guerre, made tracks for Charlestown and left his quondam friends to the mercy of a picket detail of my father's company stationed under the trestling of the Baltimore and Ohio rail- road at this point. When Uncle John heard of the treatment my father received on account of this affair, he lived in holy horror of falling into the Yankees' hands, and remained with the company during the war, and died some years after the war at the old homestead, where he was kindly cared for by my father and family. After the second trial my father continued a prisoner with no intimation of an exchange, so on the 29th of February, 1864, he addressed the following letter: Hon. E. M. Stanton, Secretary of War : Sir, — I have been a prisoner fifteen months. I was cap- tured in December, 1862, being at the time severely wounded 134 ^w^^ ^wn to Bull Run. in the lungs, and the long confinement and exfKDsure I have been compelled to endure has tended greatly to increase my feebleness. I have been held under changes which I never com- mitted, which many of your officers, high in rank, who were familiar with the circumstances, could attest. These charges have been removed, and I am now held as a prisoner of war, for exchange. I was captured prior to any interruption of exchanges under the cartel. All officers captured months after have been exchanged. -I was held under charges which, being removed, should entitle me to an immediate exchange. If you should reject the above application for my ex- change, can I not be permitted to go South, on parole for a period of sixty or ninety days, with the understanding that if my government will not release an officer of equal rank now held by it, I will return to captivity at the expiration of the parole? Very respectfully, Robert W. Baylor, Captain Twelfth Virginia Cavalry. But the above application for exchange and parole were refused, and my father remained in close confinement until October, 1864, ^ period of twenty-two months in all, when he was finally exchanged and released from a cruel barbarity. Holy Writ teaches us there is a great tribunal where justice is fully administered and the wrongs of this world are righted. Somebody must answer for the misery caused and the cruelty inflicted on my father, and I will only say, as one of our pious artillerymen used to pray, as he touched off his guns, " May the Lord have mercy on their souls." "Wm. O, Prazier. CHAPTER X. The fierceness of the fight! How saber drove At sword! How swift and strong the strokes that fell! Their dreadful deeds I pass unsung; they dwell With unessential night, whose awful screen, Hid them from notice; they were deeds that well Deserved a noon-day sun, and to have been By the whole world at once in cloudless glory seen. Tasso, » On the 2 1 St of April, our brigade, under General William E. Jones, broke camp at Lacey Springs, Rockingham county, Virginia, and moved westward across the mountains on what was familiarly known as Jones's West Virginia raid. On arriving at Moorefield we found the Potomac swollen by recent rains and impassable. The brigade was compelled to ascend the river to Petersburg to effect a crossing, and even at that point the passage was attended with danger and loss of life, and our artillery, the loss of which was soon realized, had to abandon the trip and return to the Valley. The passage of the Potomac was alarming and exciting and many sad and many laughable incidents occurred. Some feared to cross and remained anxious spectators on the bank. Two men in the Sixth Cavalry were drowned. Sergeant-Major Figgat, of the Twelfth, was swept from his horse, but saved himself by grasping his horse's tail, and was safely landed with his steed about a quarter of a mile below. Many of our officers and men prepared themselves for the emergency by shifting their coats and arms to their horses, and making all necessary preparation for a struggle with the waters. As the art of swimming was unknown to me, I trusted in God alone to bear me safely over. I remember yet the depressing still- ness of the men on this occasion, as the column slowly moved through the water. The Israelites never moved through the [136] Bull Run to Bull Run, jj/ Red Sea "with more awe and solemnity. As we neared the opposite bank, beyond the danger line, this awful silence was broken by the stentorian voice of Sergeant Trussell, " Close up, men; bear up the stream.'' This great display of courage, after the crisis was passed, caused much mirth among the boys at the Sergeant's expense, and the order was often repeated along our journey, never failing to pro- voke laughter and jollity. On arriving at Greenland Gap we sorely missed our artil- lery, as the enemy was found in buildings commanding the pass and his dislodgment cost us a loss of six men killed and twenty wounded. With one piece of artillery this loss would have been avoided and precious time saved. In the attack on this place, seventy-five prisoners, arms, and equipments, and several wagons were captured. Hurry- ing on from Greenland Gap and reaching the Northwestern Grade, the Maryland Battalion and the Twelfth Cavalry were sent to Oakland. Company B had the advance, and entered Oakland at ii A. M. on the 27th of April (Sunday), and sur- prised and captured a company of fifty-seven infantry and three officers. Many of the Federal soldiers were found (much to their credit) at church with their sweethearts, and it was with much regret that we were compelled to sunder these loving hearts for a short time. We found the girls more pugnacious and less tractable than the men. A very pious member of our company, ordered to arrest a Yankee who was walking with a girl, approached the couple with a courtly bow, tipping his hat and courteously informing the combatant he was a prisoner. The soldier recognized the situation and succumbed at once, but the girl broke out in a most awful tirade of abuse, which culminated in, " You bald-headed son of a ." As our pious comrade re- turned with his prisoner, he exclaimed, " Please God, I never heard a woman talk that way before." It was on this occasion that ex-Postmaster-General Wilson humorously accosted a lady, apparently not pleased with the 138 Bull Run to Bull Run. new visitors, and asked if she did not think " the rebels were better looking than the Yankees/' to which she contemptu- ously replied : *' You good looking ! You look like your mous- tache had been dyed three weeks in buttermilk/' This was not very flattering to the pride of our embryo Postmaster- General, who even yet prides himself on that moustache. Destroying the railroad bridges east of the town, the rail- road and turnpike bridges over the Youghieny, and a train of cars, our column moved on Cranberry Summit (now Terra Alta), capturing a lot of maple sugar and fifteen soldiers and twenty home-guards, who were paroled and released, as were also the prisoners taken at Oakland. Moving rapidly west, Kingwood and Morgantown were entered without opposition, and on the morning of the 28th, our force rejoined General Jones and the remainder -of the brigade near Independence. While in Morgantown our boys cut down the Stars and Stripes, found floating from the top of a tall flag-pole near the court-house, and as I have no expectation of running for office, I must, in justice to the truth of history, penitently acknowledge that I was an accessory before, in, and after the fact. It was while in this town that two of the most gallant and chivalrous members of Company B were with difficulty ])revented from fighting a duel in the street of the town over the charms of one of its fair ladies. After resting a few hours near Independence, we again entered Morgantown, capturing many fine horses, which had been successfully' run oflf at our first entrance and brought back after it was supposed our forces had made their final departure. Hon. W. L. Wilson's canvass for Congress in after years was much burdened by the capture of these horses, as he was charged with having stolen them all. Passing over the bridge at Morgantown, we started in the direction of Uniontown, Pennsylvania, but prudence counsel- ling us that a further advance into the enemy's country was dangerous, in the extreme, we counter-marched and moved south. Bull Run to Bull Run. 139 On the 29th our brigade attacked Fairmont, which was defended by 400 infantry and 300 home-guards. As the enemy seemed inclined to dispute our entrance, the larger part of our command was dismounted and the assault begun. Our squadron (Companies B and I), under command of the gallant Captain Charles T. O'Ferrall (now ex-Governor of Virginia), were directed to reconnoiter on our right, where, being assured a charge would be successful, we dashed into the town and the enemy fled in confusion. Finding the flooring of the suspension bridge torn up, we speedily relaid it, and our regiment and a portion of White's Battalion cross- ed, and, passing up to the railroad bridge, found it guarded by 300 men. After a vigorous assault on both sides of the river, the enemy raised the white flag, and 275 prisoners were secured. A few moments after the enemy stacked arms, a train with artillery and infantry arrived to reinforce this guard, but they were met by our men and soon forced to re- treat. The bridge was destroyed. One piece of artillery, 300 small-arms, and many horses were captured, twelve men killed, and twenty wounded. Our loss was three wounded. Leaving our wounded in the hands ot friends, at dark we re- sumed our march, and the next day reached Bridgeport, where forty-seven prisoners, arms, and horses were captured, a bridge destroyed, a train run into the stream, and the trest- ling burned. Continuing our march, we entered Philippi about noon the next day. From Philippi we moved to Buck- hannon, where we found General Imboden, and after a short halt proceeded to Weston. On May 6th, a portion of our brigade, including the Twelfth regiment, moved to West Union, where the bridges to the right and left of the town were burned and ninety-four prisoners taken and paroled. On the 9th we reached Oil Town, where a large accumulation of oil on the banks of the river was set on fire, and the burning fluid, spreading over the river, the novel spectacle of a river on fire was presented, 140 Bull Run to Bull Run, and some fleeing boatmen just ahead of the rolling flames ren- dered the scene exciting indeed. From Oil Town we jour- neyed to Glenville, Sutton, and Summersville, where we re- joined General Imboden. From this point we returned by slow marches to the Valley. In thirty days our brigade travelled nearly 700 miles, killed twenty-five to thirty of the enemy, wounded seventy-five to eighty, captured 700 prison- ers, with their arms and equipments, one piece of artillery, two trains of cars, burned sixteen railroad bridges, and de- stroyed one tunnel, 150,000 barrels of oil, and brought home with us about 1,200 horses and 1,000 cattle. The consterna- tion caused among the enemy by this raid was astonishing, as will appear from a few telegrams : Wheeling, April 28, 1863. General Ripley: Post-ofiice and banks are all packing up to leave; 1,500 Imboden's Cavalry within thirty miles. I have no men nor trains. Shall I blow up the depot in case it is necessary? A. R. Buffington, Captain of Ordnance. Washington, April 28, 1863. Major-General Schenck, Baltimore, Md. : Have you no troops in Pennsylvania and Maryland which can promptly be thrown into Wheeling by the Pennsylvania railroad? The enemy seems to march more rapidly than we move by rail. H. W. Halleck, General-in-Chief. Washington, April 29, 1863. Major-General Schenck, Baltimore, Md. : Two companies have gone from Sandusky to Wheeling, and Governor Todd has also sent, it is said, some others to the same place. The enemy's raid is variously estimated at from 1,500 to 4,000. You have 40,000 under your command. If you cannot concentrate enough to meet the enemy, it does not argue well for your military dispositions. H. W. Halleck, General-in-Chief. 14^ Bull Run to Bull Run. Harrisburg, April 28, 1863. Hon. E. M. Stanton: It is reported to me that the rebels have taken and now hold Morgantown in force. Please say if you have any infor- mation, and if force will be sent on, if there. We have no force in the State, and you could send troops before we could organize any. A. G. Curtin, Governor of Pennsylvania. But President Lincoln, with his usual sagacity, sums up the situation in a nutshell, and replies: Hon. A. G. Curtin : I do not think the people of Pennsylvania should be uneasy about an invasion. Doubtless a small force of the enemy is flourishing about in the northern part of Virginia on the '' screwhorn " principle, on purpose to divert us in another quarter. I believe it is nothing more. We think we have adequate force close after them. A. Lincoln. Our brigade reached the Valley the latter part of May, and in the first part of June crossed the Blue Ridge and joined the cavalry corps under General Stuart near Culpeper Court- house. On the 7th, General Stuart had his great cavalry re- view on the plains near Brandy Station, and on the 8th, Gen- eral R. E. Lee reviewed us, preparatory to a forward move- ment on the 9th; but the enemy anticipated this movement by crossing the river with the Federal cavalry corps under General Pleasanton, 10,000 strong, and two brigades of in- fantry. Early on the morning of the 9th, the ball was opened north of Brandy Station near St. James church, the enemy driving in our pickets and attacking the reserve of the Sixth Virginia Cavalry of our brigade about 6 A. M. Our regi- ment, which was camped near, was hastened forward to re- inforce the Sixth, and the fight soon became animated, charge and counter-charge, first one side, then the other being the victor. The two opposing forces of cavalry were nearly equal in numbers, about 10,000 on either side, the Federals having the advantage alone in the infantry support. The fighting Bull Run to Bull Run, 143 on the center of the line was entirely on horseback, and the ground was well adapted to cavalry movements. Here was fought the greatest cavalry engagement of the war, and fought in real cavalry style and manner. The sight was grand. Sabers clashed and horses and riders fell together. Our first onset was with the Sixth Pennsylvania Cavalry, and as we drove them back from our guns, which were almost in their grasp, to the woods from which* they had emerged, another regiment issued forth to its aid, met and repulsed our charge, and soon they in turn were repulsed. These charges and counter-charges continued until noon, without any de- cisive advantage to either side, but with considerable loss to both, in men and horses. At this critical juncture, our regiment and White's Bat- talion were, ordered to repair in haste to Fleetwood Hill, about a mile in our rear, to meet a column of Federal cavalry under General Gregg which had passed to our right and rear and was in possession of Brandy Station. The Twelfth regiment moved off in a gallop. Company B in the advance, with instructions to charge the enemy as soon as he appeared in sight. The regiment, in the great haste with which it repaired to the point designated, became much scattered and lengthened out, with Company B consid- erably in advance. When the summit of Fleetwood Hill was gained, we discovered the enemy's cavalry, which proved to be the First Maryland, coming up the southern slope of the hill, in platoons, with its flag and guidons fluttering in the breeze, closelv followed bv the First Pennsvlvania and the First New Jersey to our left, all under the command of Colo- nel (Sir Percy) Wyndham, who, in 1862, our brigade had captured near Cross Keys. These Federal regiments pre- sented a beautiful, but awe-inspiring, sight to our little troop; but Lieutenant Rouss, in obedience to orders, gave the com- mand to charge, and down the slope we darted, striking the head of the column and throwing it into rout and confusion. But our success was of short duration, for the First Pennsvl- 144 Bull Run to Bull Run, vania, now charging, by force of numbers pressed our com- pany back to the top of the hill, when the residue of the Twelfth regiment coming up, the fight for the possession of the hill became general. Colonel Wyndham, in his official report referring to this part of the engagement, says : *' The First Maryland, which consisted of little more than a sciuadron, led by Lieutenant-Colonel Deems, charged, but were met by fully a regiment of the enemy, posted behind the buildings and drawn up in the garden and orchard, and, after a brief and spirited fight, were compelled to fall back. The First Pennsylvania coming up, charged next. Colonel Taylor, leading part of the regiment, struck the enemy in front, while Lieutenant-Colonel Gardner, with the balance, dashed on his flank next to the house. Attacked at both points, he was forced back, cut off from the house, his rear gained, and driven from his cover into the open plain below, where he was again met by the First Maryland Cavalry, which had rallied. Thus assailed on both sides, his force was completely scattered, a large number being killed, wounded, or captured. My loss is one officer killed and fourteen wounded or missing; fourteen men killed and 120 wounded or missing." Colonel Broderick, of the First New Jersey, was killed, and Colonel Wyndham, commanding the brigade, wounded. The return of the casualties of this brigade, as compiled, makes the number larger than Colonel Wyndham's report, and is as follows : '' Three officers killed and fifteen enlisted men; ten officers wounded and forty-two enlisted men; two officers captured and seventy-eight enlisted men, the aggre- gate loss in the First Maryland alone being sixty-three." While the Twelfth Cavalry was wrestling with the enemy for the possession of Fleetwood Hill, Colonel White, with his battalion, arrived, and, making a gallant charge, drove the enemy back and seized their guns, just planted to the south of the hill; but after holding them for a few minutes was Bull Run to Bull Run. 145 driven back. General Stuart in person now joined us in the fight, and the contest was renewed with increased vigor under General Stuart's personal leadership, without much regi- mental or company organization, but more as a body-guard. Several times the enemy reached our guns, which had taken position on the hill and had become our rallying point; but after a desperate struggle, had been driven back in confusion and with great loss. We were now fighting Gregg's entire division of cavalry and Russell's brigade of infantry. At this juncture, the Sixth, Seventh, and Eleventh Vir- ginia Cavalry of our brigade came up, and, charging the enemy, captured their guns and drove them back and away from Brandy Station, causing Gregg to retreat in rout and confusion, and so the day's fight was virtually ended. General Pleasanton at 11 A. M., while our brigade was fighting him near St. James church, reports as follows : " General : All the enemy's forces are engaged with me. I am holding them until Gregg can come up. Gregg's guns are being heard in the enemy's rear." But at 12:30 P. M., after Gregg had been driven from our rear, he again reports : " General Gregg has joined me, and I will now attack the enemy vigorously with my whole force. Prisoners report that Stuart has 30,000 cavalry here. Both Lees, Jones, and Hampton are with him. We have had a sharp fight and have lost heavily, as we had the whole force in front of one-half of my command. Colonel Davis, Eighth New York, and Cap- tain Canfield, Second United States Cavalry, are killed; Major Morris, Sixth Pennsylvania Cavalry, is a prisoner, with a number of others. We have about 100 in hospital, wound- ed, Major Beveridge, Eighth Illinois, among the number. Buford and Ames have driven the enemy's whole force out of his strongest position. It zvould be zvell to send a good force of the Fifth Corps toivard Brandy Station, if it can be spared." When the enemy doubles and trebles the opposing force, 10 146 Bull Run to Bull Run, it may be assumed his fears have gotten the better of him; but when he calls for help, you may rest assured he has g-otten enough, and so it was with Pleasanton. His vigorous attack was made in his report only. He was more than satisfied, and rested from his labors, and the great fight was virtually ended. We had fought the whole day without anything to eat or drink, and with no food or water for our horses, and we were glad of an opportunity for both to get refreshment. Com- pany B lost in the fight near St. James church: Hec. Isler, killed; and at Fleetwood Hill, George Lewis, Up. Manning, and Warren McKown, killed; and four men wounded, and Lieutenant Rouss and Buck Ranson, the former of whom re- mained a prisoner until the close of the war, prisoners. The loss in our corps was severe in both men and horses, but not so great as that of the enemy. General Pleasanton admits a loss of 907, while General Stuart reports his loss at 480. The field between Brandy Station and the river was dotted over with dead men and horses. There were other battles during the war between the opposing cavalry forces, where fully as large numbers were engaged, but these en- gagements were fought in great part by dismounted cavalry, while Brandy Station was unique in that it was a distinctly cavalry fight, the horses suflfering equally with the riders, and individual prowess and daring was more conspicuous. In this engagement on our side were the three cavalry di- visions of Fitz Lee, W. H. F. Lee, and Hampton and the horse artillery, while Pleasanton had the three divisions of Gregg, Buford, and Kilpatrick, and the infantry brigades of Ames and Russell, with the horse artillery, both infantry bri- gades being actively engaged in the fight. While the enemy's cavalry and infantry had met a repulse ^and severe loss, the cavalry had gained confidence in them- selves, and this body of men, who, prior to this time, had afforded us more amusement than work, had now emerged from their state of inefficiencv and had become foemen worthy of our steel. James Nelson Ckillaher. CHAPTER XL O! there are men who linger on the stage To gather crumbs and fragments of applause When they should sleep in earth — who, lik^ the moon, Have brightened up some little night of time, And 'stead of setting when their light is worn. Still linger, like its blank and beamless orb. When daylight fills the sky. Alexander Smith. A few days after the fight at Brandy Station, our cavalry corps moved in the direction of Fauquier county, interposing between the Federal army and General Lee's infantry column, passing down the Shenandoah Valley. The move- ments of our army produced consternation in the enemy's camp. Hooker was so dazed he did not know what to do, and was constantly worrying President Lincoln about the situation. It was at this time that Lincoln sent him this unique and caustic message: Washington, D. C, June 14, 1863. Major- General Hooker: So far as we can make out here, the enemy have Milroy surrounded at Winchester and Tyler at Martinsburg. If they could hold out a few days, could you help them? If the head of Lee's army is at Martinsburg and the tail of it on the Plank road, between Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville, the ani- mal must be very slim somewhere. Could you not break him? On the 19th, our brigade reached Union, in Loudoun county, where position was taken on Stuart's left. On the morning of the 21st, brisk firing was heard in the direction of Middleburg; soon after, Jones's and Chambliss's brigades were attacked by Buford's Division. Our position was main- tained until noon, when Generals Jones and Chambliss were [148] • Bull Run to Bull Run. 14^ ordered to retire in the direction of Upperville. As Upper- ville was approached, it was apparent the enemy were driving General Stuart on the Middleburg turnpike and were then in close proximity to Upperville, and a deflection to our rig'ht was necessary to effect a junction with Stuart's forces. While in the execution of this move, our brigade was vigo- rously assailed by Buford's Division and a severe contest en- sued. Our artillery was quickly brought into action; our regiments, one after another, were drawn into the fight, and after a brisk contest the enemy was driven back. In the hottest of the engagement our squadron com- mander, Captain Charles T. O'Ferrall, severely wounded and supposed to be killed, was carried from the field on horse- back in front of one of our men. His true condition was not ascertained until a place of safety was reached and his body was being placed in an ambulance. The contest around Upperville was spirited on both sides, but opposing numbers were too great, and we were forced back to Paris, fighting each step of the way. We engaged on this occasion Gregg's and Buford's divisions of cavalry, three brigades each, and Vincent's brigade of infantry; on our side we had Hampton's, Robertson's, Chambliss's, and Jones's brigades; yet with this disparity in numbers, it had required the longest day of the year to drive us six miles. About the close of the fight I witnessed a charge on the enemy led by that sturdy old soldier. General Wade Hamp- ton. Gregg and Buford were pressing our forces near Paris quite vigorously, and one of their regiments had the temerity to charge into our slowly retreating column, when Hampton, seemingly angered, looking a veritable god of war, drew his saber, called to the First North Carolina to follow him, plunged into the charging column of the enemy, and soon reversed the situation. The hostile force vanished under the saber strokes of the General and his men. The enemy, severely punished, did not molest us further. The relations between Generals Stuart and Jones were by ^50 Bull Run to Bull Run. no means cordial, and this unfriendliness was the source of much regret to officers and men of our brigade, who esteemed both generals highly. When Stuart, therefore, obtained per- mission to pass around the Federal army and between it and Washington, the brigades of Hampton, Fitz Lee, and W. H. F. Lee were selected, and Jones and Robertson left behind to protect the right flank of Lee's army on its march north of the Potomac. Our brigade remained in Loudoun county until it was as- certained that Hooker had crossed the Potomac into Mary- land, then crossed into the Shenandoah Valley, and General Jones, leaving the Twelfth regiment in Jefferson to picket and watch the movements of the enemy (who still occupied Harper's Ferry) on the right and rear of General Lee's army, crossed the Potomac with the remainder of the brigade and joined General Lee. Company B was posted to watch and observe any move- ment from Harper's Ferry. On the 30th, having obtained permission from Colonel Massie, commanding regiment, to attack the enemy's cavalry picket reserve in Bolivar, just before daybreak, with 40 men of Company B, we evaded the outer picket by passing close along the banks of the Potomac and under the shadow of Bolivar Heights, until the rear of the town was reached; then, pressing rapidly into the town, we found the reserve asleep, and, killing one in the melee, captured one officer, 19 men, 21 horses and equipments, with- out loss and brought them safely into camp. In his official report, Colonel Massie says : " The affair was well planned and gallantly executed." On the next day, July ist, the enemy withdrew his forces from the south side of the Potomac, and Company B took possession of Harper's Ferry, finding commisssary, quarter- master, and ordnance stores, abandoned by the enemy. On the 3d we crossed the river and scouted down to within five miles of Frederick City, without encountering any force of the enemy. At this time, the guns were booming at Gettys- Bull Run to Bull Run. 151 burg, and the great battle was in progress. On the 7th, the enemy reoccupied Maryland Heights and on the 14th crossed the Potomac. Colonel Harman, who had been wounded at Brandy Station, returned and took command of the regiment, then camped about a mile west of Charlestown. On resuming command, he called for Company B, and moved us down the » turnpike as far as Halltown, where Company K's reserve was posted. Then, taking a squad of six men with him, he moved to the front in the direction of Bolivar. A short time afterwards, hearing some firing in that direction. Company B was ordered to mount, and had just crossed the railroad at Halltown, when the Federal cavalry appeared, pursuing some of our men, who had gone forward with Colonel Harman. A charge was ordered, and the enemy was met in the stream. We soon turned the tide and pursued to beyond Bolivar Heights, capturing one major, one lieutenant, 30 men, and 31 horses and equipments, and killing and wounding several. Captain Blakelee, commanding the First Connecticut Cavalry, in his official report of this affair to General Naglee, says: " Major Famsworth, myself and 50 men, crossed the Poto- mac by order of General Naglee, to reconnoiter the enemy's position beyond Bolivar Heights and ascertain their strength. About two miles from Harper's Ferry the advance guard (18 men), under myself, charged upon the pickets of the enemy, numbering about 30 tnen, and drove them in confu- sion back on their reserve. Major Farnsworth coming up, now charged on the whole reserve of the enemy, about 200 strong. The enemy charged, and it became a fierce hand-to- hand fight, in which, owing to the disparity of our numbers, they repulsed us and rescued several prisoners whom we had previously taken, and I am sorry to add, captured Major Farnsworth and 24 men. The Major's horse was shot under him, and he foug'ht most gallantly on foot with his saiber, until he was overpowered and taken prisoner." 152 Bull Run to Bull Run, The gallant captain has reversed our numbers; we had the 50 men and the Major had the 200. It was w'hile engaged on this picket duty and prior to the reoccupation of Harper's Ferry by the Federal army, that late one evening I was visited by our Lieutenant-Colonel and a gallant captain (now dead), who informed me of a little project they had on hand for the night, and in which they needed the assistance of myself and some half-dozen trusty men. I made the selection, the scheme was unfolded and the reward promised, which was sufficient inducement of itself for our hearty co-operation. About 10 P. M. our little party passed through and beyond our picket lines and entered the lower part of Harper's Ferry, where our horses were fastened and the house of a lady known to us, by reputation at least, entered. Here two men were found, who said they had crossed the Potomac that night with a considerable lot of goods, which they wished to take into the Confederate lines. We were requested by these men and instructed by our Col- onel to treat them roughly, so as to impress the people of Harper's Ferry Avith the idea that they were our unwilling captives. Accordingly some of the boys, versed in the art of swearing, lavished on them a few of their choicest oaths, while Henry Beall, remarking to me that he believed they were real, veritable Yankees, walked up to one of them and landed his foot rather severely in his rear. The fellow, as he rubbed the spot to ease the pain, looked as if he thought that felt too genuine for a sham and partook more of the vicious- ness of the mule than the gentleness of the lady. The goods were gathered together and placed in Old Man Nat. Allison's wagon, which was impressed for the purpose, and with the two men as prisoners, we passed within our lines and halted near our reserve, where Company B's contingent received a handsome donation for its services, my portion being a pair of cavalry boots, a pair of gauntlets, a couple of overshirts, and some handkerchiefs — quite a handsome outfit for the times. Jno. SbEtmion OallEtber. 154 ^w// Run to Bull Run. Here the Colonel and the Captain took charge of the men and wagon and moved off in the direction of Chaxlestown. The next day I was informed that these men had been arrested by order of General Lee as spies and their goods confiscated. General Lee's army was then encamped near Bunker Hill. I also learned that the General was seeking information as to how the men and goods got through his lines, and we were requested by our Colonel to keep quiet on the subject, which we did. Whether or not these men were spies, I know not, but I do know they did not make much profit on those goods. I always felt that our conduct in this matter was questionable, notwithstanding the fact that it was authorized and sanctioned by a superior officer. Our portion of the goods, however, served a good purpose and supplied our particular needs. The Federal army having crossed the Potomac below Har- per's Ferry, moved in the direction of Culpeper. Our army hastened to confront it, and our brigade, after several unim- portant skirmishes, took up position near Culpeper Court- house, in the nighborhood of Brandy Station, where it re- mained quiet until September 13th, when the enemy advanced, drove it through Culpeper and across the Rapidan, capturing three pieces of Thomson's battery, which, through inadvert- ence or negligence, had been left without support in an ex- posed position. In this engagement our brigade, commanded by General Lomax, was opposed by the divisions of Buford and Kilpatrick, and received no assistance until south of Cul- peper, where it was joined by the brigade of W. H. F. Lee. While stationed at Culpeper, General Jones was assigned to the command of the Valley Department, and took leave of the brigade he had so successfully commanded for more than a year past, much to the regret of its men, who had formed for him an ardent attachment. Colonel Lomax was made briga- dier and assigned to the command in his stead, much to the chagrin of the Twelfth, if not of the whole brigade. General Lomax had been a school-mate of General Stuart at West Point, and owed his promotion more to the clanish feeling Bull Run to Bull Run. 155 existing among the graduates of that institution than to any merit as a leader of men, and to the fact that he had acted < gallantly in some Indian fight with Stuart when all retreat was cut off. He ought to have died then! West Pointers were rather disposed to assume that they knew all that could be learned in the art of war, and that a soldier from civil life w-as a mere gawk and machine. They had no use and no kind word for such men as Forrest, a born prince among men and a natural genius in the art of war. Lomax was a very strict disciplinarian, fully imbued with the idea that discipline was the alpha and the omega of a soldier's qualification, and that individual valor and courage were naught in the conflict. Our brigade, composed of noble, high-born spirits, accus- tomed to the lenient authority prevailing among the volun- teer soldiery, naturally rebelled at the adoption of the austere rules and regulations prescribed by Lomax. The result of the Culpeper fight was not unexpected in the brigade, and was due in large measure to the unpopularity of its leader. A horse may be led to the trough, but kindness and gentle- ness will make him drink much sooner than force. One morning, just prior to the Culpeper fight, I was sur- prised at the number of absentees from roll-call in Company B, and on inquiry of the Orderly Sergeant, was informed that a dozen or more of the company had gone to Jeflferson, on what soldiers termed a flank. As required by orders, the fact was reported by me to regimental headquarters; the Colonel reported it to brigade headquarters, and in a few moments thereafter I received orders to report in person to General Lomax. I found the General in a surly mood, inquiring about the absentees, and he called them deserters. I frankly dis- closed the fact that the boys had gone home, some to get fresh horses, others to get winter clothes, and said I was assured they would be back in a few days. The General then said: ** Do you think they will ever come back? *' to which I in- dignantly answered, " I know they will come back; they are gentlemen.'' " Well,'' said the doughty General, " I will have 1^6 Bull Run to Bull Run, some of these gentlemen shot/' I then mounted and returned to camp, consoling myself with the thought that if any of those gentlemen were shot, a general not so much of a gen- tleman would be shot also. The absentees returned in a few days, bringing with them as a peace offering several prisoners, whom they had captured in Jefferson, and, most fortunately for them, the bloody-shirt disciplinarian had the day before their return, been removed from our brigade. Colonel Funsten, a gentleman by birth and education and a soldier from patriotism and not by profes- sion, was in command, and the boys escaped all punishment. But for this change in commanders, Washington would have lost an eminent physician, Atlanta a prominent lawyer, Cali- fornia a representative in Congress, the revenue-tariff bill its- author, Cleveland his Postmaster-General, Washington and Lee University its president, and the government itself an office-holder, who assumed office as a spoilsman, and now retains it as a civil-service reformer. On the 2 1 St I was directed by General Stuart to take 20 men, get in rear of a column of the enemy's cavalry passing in the direction of Madison Courthouse and ascertain its numbers and composition. During my absence on this scout, Buford and Kilpatrick's divisions having reached Madison Courthouse, separated, Buford moving down the Gordonsville turnpike, while Kilpatrick moved down the Orange Court- house road, with orders to meet Buford at or near Jack's Shop and Burtonsville. Stuart moved back and attacked Buford near Jack's Shop, and while engaged in a severe contest with him, learned that Kilpatrick was in his rear, cutting him off from the ford at Liberty Mills. He immediately disposed his forces to meet this new danger, and the battle was soon limited to a narrow space between these two forces of the enemy. Our artillery, from the same position, was firing in both directions, and the enemy's bullets were passing both ways over our lines. At this juncture, the Twelfth regiment was directed to charge the enemy in the rear. This order was gallantly exe- Bull Run to Bull Run, 757 cuted, and Kilpatrick's men were driven from the road and the ford, and Stuart, retiring from Buford's front, passed his artillery and men safely over the river, and the fig-ht was ended. In this engagement Tad Baney, a brave soldier of Company B, was killed, and B. C. Washington engaged in hand-to-hand saber contest with Major Mclrwin, of the Second New York Cavalry. Washington being left-handed, held his saber in his left hand, while the Major, a West Pointer, versed in mili- tary art, h«eld his in the right. Washington made the first pass, and the skillful Major attempted to parry his blow, but his saber being constructed to guard against a right-hand antagonist, Washington's saber struck the Major's, passed down the blade, and there being no guard on that side, the blow fell on the Major's hand, causing him to drop his weapon, and Washington, taking advantage of the situation, forced his surrender. In speaking of this contest, while a prisoner, the Major said he had n'ever been taught to fight with a left-handed man. When Washington brought the Major to General Stuart, he recognized him, and said, " Hello, Mclrwin, what are you doing here? I paroled you in Penn- sylvania." " Yes," said the Major, " but our people would not recognize your parole and ordered me to duty." The Major's horse and trappings were given to Washington, and the Major sent to the rear. For gallant conduct on this and other occasions, Washington was made second lieutenant in Company B. General Davis, in his report of this engagement, speaking of the Second New York, says : " Their loss was, however, very heavy, and we have to mourn over many gallant officers and brave men who fell into the hands of the enemy. Major Mclrwin, Captain Hasty, Lieutenants Jones and Ternple, with 69 brave men, fell into the hands of the enemy." While these scenes were being enacted, I had returned to our deserted camp, with the information for which I was sent, but found no one to receive it. 75* Bull Run to Bull Run. Having ascertained that Stuart had fallen back, and that the enemy was between us and our forces, I moved my little posse, much. increased by some 30 men of Cobb's Legion, cut o(T by the enemy during- the fight, to a thick wood near the road, and waited for night and further information. Just after dusk, hearing cavalry and artillery passing along the n>ad, leaving my horse, I noiselessly approached the road, and, lying down in a fence-corner, heard the battle of the day discusssed, and learned that the Yankees were retiring in the direction of Culpeper. This column seemed interminable, and fearing daylight would discover our whereabouts, I re- turned to the men, and, mounting, started westward, guided in mv course bv the stars. We had n^ot travelled more tlian five miles when, hearing: cavalry passing a short distance south of us, I sent Will Thomson to a house near by to learn the situation, while we halted to aw^it his return. Thomson rode up to the house, w^hich was in view by star- light, and tapped on the window. Just then I heard some one from the Yankee column, not over 200 yards distant, eallop up to the house, and, nearing Thomson, inquired in a loud voice, " What are you doing there? Get back into ranks.*' Without replying, Thoms'on turned his horse and struck back in our direction in a full run, the Yankee follow- itie him. Instead of stoppincr with us, Thomson keT>t up his retreat to a wood a short distance bevond, but the Yankee drew up, when he saw us, and asked to what command we belonged. T replied, '' Second New York," and, he being apparently satisfied, rode back and joined his column. From his straps, T knew he was an oflicer, but couldn't see clearly enough to tell his rank. T would have taken him prisoner, but feared the firing of a shot would have alarmed the column and have resulted in the capture of our party. Diverging a little northwest, we now continued our way, and at davbreak reached Wolfetown, where, turning our course southeastward, we soon joined General Stuart, who congratulated us on our safe exit. After this engagement our ^■A- Jno. 8. Oraatham. t6o Bull Run to Bull Run, brigade went into camj) near the Rapidan and enjoyed a couple of weeks of quiet and repose. Like Uncle Toby, in '* Tristam Shandy," I find myself often indulging in digressions, and only hope mine may be as agreeable and entertaining as those of my ancient relative. While Company B was at Camp Twyman, on the Rapidan, discipline was somewhat lax, and the boys enjoyed various diversions, spending much of their time in foraging the com- munity for eatables, drinkables, and social enjoyment. I have mentioned that the members of Company B were young, and should have added, great admirers of the fair sex. There were only two books in the company, the New Testament and Charles O'Malley, and T must reluctantly record that the men followed oftener the precepts of the Irish Dragoon than those of the Divine Master. The Testament was usually read on the battle-field and O'Malley in camp. There was Bob, who, while possessing an eye for beauty, had also a penchant for the good things of the stomach. In fact, he used the former as a means to the gratification of th-e latter. One day as he was foraging around, he discovered a goodly habitation, tenanted by a widow lady and her daughter, and it was not long before he had ingratiated himself into their favor, and was faring sumptuously for the times, w'hile other members of Company B who wandered that way were treated pretty much as tramps are nowadays. Bob's popularity at this homestead was much discussed among the boys, and a plan set on foot to supplant him. Tom and Billy were selected for the undertaking. Tom was a bom diplomat, and Billy possessed acres of the suaviter in modo. They appeared at the widow's mansion one morning, about an hour before dinner, and entreated the ladies for something to eat, inci- dentally (but on purpose) mentioning Bob in the presence of the mother and daughter. There was magic in th-e name. The old lady instantly inquired if they knew Bob, speaking of him by his surname. " Oh, yes," answered Tom, " we live near by him in Jefferson, and are well acquainted with him Bull Run to Bull Run, i6i and his wife and children also.'" The leaven worked finely and rapidly. '' What/' said the old lady, almost bursting with suppressed wrath, while the young lady blushed crimson, " is he a married man?" Tom begged pardon for having said anything amiss, and said Bob was a friend, and he would prefer to say nothing more on the subject. His silence raised the ladies' curiosity to the highest pitch, and to get an oppor- tunity to press for further information the ladies insisted that Tom and his companion should dine with them. The invita- tion was reluctantly accepted, and a great many more perti- nent questions were asked, but no further information ' secured. After partaking of a good, square meal, which no one was capable of enjoying more than Tom, he and Billy returned to camp and were silent. The day following. Bob rode out to this home, full of the assurance of a jovous recep- tion and entertainment, fed his horse, and was about entering the house, when two irate ladies attacked him furiously with broomsticks, and would neither give nor hear an explanation. Poor Bob retired discomfited, and was totally ignorant of what hurt him, until some time after the brigade left that neighborhood and we were far away. fi CHAPTER XII. Cannon to right of them, Cannon to left of them, Cannon in front of them Volleyed and thundered; Stormed at with shot and shell. Boldly they rode amd well. Tennyson, On the 9th of October, 1863, our army prepared to move forward, and the Bristow campaign was begun. Our brigade was still under the command of Colonel Funsten, of the Eleventh Cavalry. That day I received orders from General Stuart to cross the Rapidan at night with a detail from Com- pany B, and endeavor to capture the enemy's signal corps on Stonehouse Mountain, as it overlooked and reported our movements. As soon as it was dark, selecting twenty men for the expe- dition, leaving in camp our horses and all arms except our pistols, we proceeded to the river, took ofif our clothing, and, bundling it and our pistols on our shoulders, waded the stream, and passed up the opposite bank between two Federal picket posts. Having safely and noiselessly gained the rear of the ehemy's picket line, we put on our clothes and started in the direction of the signal station, which was easily recog- nized from its elevated fires. Satisfied that success could be attained only by silence and by avoiding alarm until the station was reached, we moved along stealthily and cautiously, avoiding any conflict. Having gone somewhat more than a mile, wc were startled by the near approach in our front of a body of cavalry. Making a hasty run into the fence-comers, we laid down, and trusted the enemy would pass us by. But the cavalry, reaching a point just opposite, with only a rail fence between us, halted as if listening. It was with great rlifficulty that the men were restrained from firing into them. [162] Bull Run to Bull Run. i6^ • After standing about ten minutes in this position, th-e Yan- kees moved forward in the direction of their picket line, and soon after, galloping was heard in the direction of their camp, which could easily be traced by the camp-fires, and in a short time the bugles sounding " boots and saddles/' Satisfied now that our squad had been discovered and the capture impossi- ble, we returned to our camp somewhat the worse from briar scratches received in passing through the picket lines in nude condition. On the morning of the loth, with Company B, we crossed the Rapi'dan and hastened to join our command, which had gone forward the evening before with General Stuart, and was moving in the direction of Culpeper Courthouse. We overtook the brigade near a small place called Griffinsburg. Company B now took the advance and acted as a body-guard for General Stuart. On nearing Culpeper a regiment of Federal infantry was seen hastening in that direction and seemingly separated from any support. As soon as General Stuart saw it, no other force being at hand, he ordered me to charge it. It appeared a rash and dangerous undertaking, but with an order that could not be questioned and a com- pany that never refused to respond, we were soon dashing toward them. The enemy seeing onr charge, soon gallantly faced towards us, and when we were about one hundred yards off, poured a volley into us. But as they occupied a small eminence, and we were in a depression, their balls passed harmlessly over our heads. Finding that our charge had not been checked, and not having time to reload, they threw ofT their knapsacks and fled. Fortunately for them, there was an impassable ditch, which delayed our progress, and per- mitted most of them to escape. General Stuart, in his official report, says: > *' In our rapid pursuit of the enemy, we found that we had passed an infantry regiment of the enemy, which had been on the outpost and was now marching parallel to our 164 Bull Run to Bull Run, column on our right in the direction of Culpeper Courthouse. Every eflfort was made to close up the column thus elongated by pursuit, so as to catch this regiment, but apprehending that it would escape, the only cavalry I could lay my hands on was ordered to charge the regiment as it debouched into the open ground. This was gallantly responded to by a com- pany of the Twelfth Virginia under Lieutenant Baylor, and but for an impassable ditch these brave men would have rid- den over the enemy and cut them down with the saber. They charged within 20 or 30 yards of the column and fired a volley into it, but were forced, from the nature of the ground, to retire, which was done without the loss of a man or horse, although the enemy's fire was delivered almost in their faces. The enemy did not further contest the field. They broke and ran, dropping guns, knapsacks, and blankets, several of their number being captured." Colonel John Esten Cooke, then aide to General Stuart, and an eye-witness of this charge, says: " Never had I seen him (Stuart) more excited. He was plainly on fire with the idea of capturing the whole party. The staflf scattered to summon the cavalry, and soon a com- pany came at full gallop. It was the ' Jeflferson Company,' under that brave officer. Captain George Baylor. * Charge and cut them down,' shouted Stuart, his drawn sword flashing as he forced his horse over fallen trees and the debris of a great deserted camp. A fine spectacle followed. As the Federal infantry double-quicked up a slope, Baylor charged. As his men darted upon them, they sudednly halted, came to a front face, and the long line of gun-barrels fell, as though they were parts of some glittering war machine. The muzzles spouted flame, and the cavalry received the fire at thirty yards. It seemed to check them, but it did not. They had come to an impassable ditch. In another moment the infan- try broke, every man for himself, and, making a detour, the cavalry pursued and captured large numbers." G. E. Henderson. i66 Bull Run to Bull Run, Colonel B. F. Smith, commanding the Third brigade of the Third Army Corps, in his* report of this aflfair, says : '' On the morning of the nth, after the departure of the corps from the camp near Culpeper, the pickets from the brigade were attacked by the enemy; this while endeavor- ing to join the command. The detail from the One Hundred and Sixth New York Volunteers (432 strong, under charge of Major A. N. McDonald, commanding regiment) repulsed the attack, but with the loss of Captain James L. Peach and two enlisted men killed, seven enlisted men wounded, and 18 enlisted men captured. The loss of the enemy is unknown; several saddles were emptied." « But Major McDonald, in his official report, differs some- what from Colonel Smith in his account of the loss. He says : " My casualties are as follows: Killed, three; wounded, 10; missing, 25. The enemy's loss in killed and wounded is at least three times our entire loss.'' This shows how badly the Major was frightened, for Com- pany B lost neither man nor horse, and did not number over 50 men. On the afternoon of the nth we reached the Barbour house, overlooking Brandy Station, and found Kilpatrick's division of cavalry moving back from Culpeper in the direc- tion of the station. It was a magnificent spectacle. Our artillery was not in reach, and few of our cavalry up. But General Stuart, being apprised that Fitz Lee had arrived on the opposite flank of the enemy at Brandy Station, ordered the Twelfth, under Colonel Massie, to charge the column and cut off Kilpatrick's retreat. Company B was in front of the regiment, and down the slope it went and reached a point near the station, when it was discovered that the enemy had enveloped us, and it became a race on our part to escape cap- ture. We were so intermingled with the enemy that they could not use their guns and pistols without endangering Bull Run to Bull Run. 16/ their own men. Lieutenant Washington and myself were near together on the retreat, and, jumping a ditch, his horse fell and pinioned him to the ground. As my horse cleared the ditch safely, he called for help, but with visions of Forts McHenry and Delaware before me and a host of pursuers behind, I was constrained to leave him to his fate. I escaped, but he was taken prisoner, but did not remain long in the enemy's hands, as he appeared next morning in camp, minus horse and arms, having made a miraculous escape during the night. Our force being too weak to impede Kilpatrick's retreat, he escaped safely over the Rappahannock. General Stuart, in* his repK)rt, says : "The Twelfth Virginia Cavalry, Lieutenant-Colonel Massie commanding, was at the head of the column, and, being ordered to charge, did so in the most gallant manner, cutting oflf about 1,200 or 1,500 of the enemy, all of whom would have been killed or captured had not the headlong rapidity of the pursuit, added to the difficult character of the ground, so greatly extended the column as to impair for the moment its efficiency of action. The loss of the enemy in killed, wounded, and prisoners was considerable, the two regiments' of Colonel Funsten's command alone having taken 200." General Kilpatrick, in his report, says : " Many gallant charges were now made by the division, and many equally gallant charges by the enemy repulsed. The division fell slowly back, one brigade after another, in good order, and finally crossed the Rappahannock and went into camp about 8 P. M.'' On the morning of the 12th, our regiment was sent to the right of Jeflfersonton, in the direction of Warrenton Springs. Reaching the road in the rear of Jeffersonton, Company B being in advance, we discovered a regiment of the enemy's led horses standing on the road leading to Jeflfersonton, the men having gone forward and left them in charge of one man to each file of fours. A charge was ordered, meeting i68 Bull Run to Bull Run. with little or no resistance, and the rest of our regiment coming up, a large number of prisoners and horses were cap- tured, and the Seventh regiment pressing the enemy in front at Jeflfersonton, they were soon routed and scattered in every direction. General Gregg, in his report, says : " It is to be regretted that in the gallant and obstinate resistance made by the Fourth and Thirteenth Pennsylvania regiments they had to fight almost entirely on foot," but he does not sav that it was because we had captured their horses. In this engagement on our side was the Seventh and Twelfth Virginia regiments, and on the Federal side the Fourth and Thirteenth Pennsylvania and the Tenth New York regiments. General Gregg, in his official report, says : " They charged impetuously in front and on both flanks with infantry and cavalry, and we were driven into the woods, where for half an hour the fight raged furiously. At this juncture information was brought that the enemy had pos- session of the road in my rear, and that we were surrounded. This information, having found its way to the men, created some confusion, and it became impossible to re-form the com- mand, and I was compelled to retire in some confusion, fight- ing, however, every foot of the ground. It was here that Major Young, Fourth Pennsylvania Cavalry, and Lieutenants Cutler and Martin of my stafT, were wounded." Pressing on to the river at Warrenton Springs, we found the enemy had posted his artillery on an eminence beyond the stream and placed their dismounted men in rifle-pits near the banks of the river to contest our advance. Dismounted men were thrown forward on our side, supported by a small force of our infantry who had arrived on the scene. The horse artillery not having come up, General Long, of Ewell's Corps, opened fire with eight guns on the enemy's batteries and supporting squadrons. At this juncture, General Stuart Bull Run to Bull Run, i6p ordered me to charge with Company B across the river and drive the enemy from their rifle-pits. I had been for some time a spectator of the futile eflforts of the infantry and dismounted men to effect a crossing^ and to accomplish this with a cavalry dash struck me as imprac- ticable. But a soldier's duty is to obey, do or die. Assured that a bold front was half the battle, four brave men were placed in rear of the company, with orders to shoot down the first man that fell back. Hearing the order, a member of the company plaintively remarked, " Well, boys, between death before and death behind, I will take death in front." Generals Robert E. Lee, Ewell, Stuart, and others were in full view, watching the movement. It was the occasion of our lives. The order was given, and down the road the company dashed amid a showier of bullets, and reached the bridge over the river, to find the flooring torn up. Here we were forced to halt, face about and strike for a ford below. This move- ment was effected without faltering, and soon the river was crossed and the rifle-pits, with a large number of prisoners, in our possession. The rest of our regiment now coming to our aid, the prisoners were secured and turned over to the infantry. As we passed up out of the river and our horses leaped over the rifle-pits, our infantry on the opposite banks greeted us with loud cheers. This was the first and only occasion during the war, that I know or have heard of, where the infantry showed such appreciation of the cavalry. Among the prisoners taken was Captain Harry Gregg, a class-mate and friend of mine at Dickinson College. I had only time to greet him, when I was hurried forward and he taken to the rear. So I saw him no more. General Stuart, in his report of this engagement, says : " This little band of the Twelfth Virginia Cavalry was worthy of special praise, as it was made under circumstances of great embarrassment. Charging first up to the pier of the bridge, it was discovered that it had been taken up, thus I/O Bull Run to Bull Run. f exposing them to a dangerous fire from the enemy on the opposite side. Nothing daunted in purpose, however, they turned about and took the road to the ford below, which they pkniged into in the face of the enemy's fire without halt or hesitation." Major-General McClellan, in his " Life of Stuart," says: " Now the Twelfth Virginia w^as ordered to charge the bridge. Lieutenant Baylor's company still had the front. Darkness was settling down upon the field. Along a narrow causeway, Baylor led his men in column of fours. In the face of a sharp fire from the rifle-pits he reached the very abutment of the bridge before he discovered that the planks had been removed and that a crossing was impossible. He must retrace his steps and try the ford. There was no trepi- dation, no confusion. * By fours, right-about wheel. For- ward ! ' and in a moment he had descended from the cause- way, and his column was plunging through the narrow ford, where hardly four could ride abreast. It was a gallant sight, and called forth wild huzzas from the Confederate infantry, many of whom were spectators of the scene. Up the hill went Baylor, and in a few moments the rifle-pits were cleared of the enemy and the approaches to the bridge were under our com- trol." General Gregg, in his official reix)rt, says : "After the recrossing of all regiments to the east side of the river, 1 lined its banks above and below the bridge with sharp- shooters. The enemy advanced with a long and strong line of skirmishers, but were checked by the fire of our carbines and one gun ])lace(l near the river, which, at that range, gave them rapid discharges of spherical case. At this time I saw long columns of infantry marching northward, on the opposite bank. Uj)on these columns the fire of my artillery was directed. The enemy now opened upon my position with 20 pieces of artillery, and under this fire, his cavalry advanced to and forced a crossing at the bridge. Total loss of the division jolm Howell. 1^2 Bull Run to Bull Run. at Sulphur Springs and on the 14th is as follows: Officers, three killed, 13 wounded, and six missing; enlisted men, 14 killed, loi wounded, and 426 missing. Of those reported missing at Sulphur Springs, very many were killed and wounded." After getting a firm foothold on the northern bank of the Rappahannock, the Twelfth Cavalry, under Colonel Funsten, was ordered to procj^ed to Warrenton, and on its way there captured 50 prisoners, who, through mistake, rode into our column. We bivouacked that night in the suburbs of War- renton, and next morning continued our advance through Auburn in the direction of Catlett's Station. At Auburn, Lo- max's brigade joined us, and General Stuart took command. Leaving Lomax at Auburn, General Stuart advanced toward Catlett's Station with Funsten's and Gordon's brigades. Near- ing Catlett's, we saw large wagon-trains of the enemy moving northward. We remained here until dark, when word reached us that thcv enemy's column occupied our rear at Auburn. Stuart quickly moved in that direction, hoping to effect his escape, but on arrival near that place, discovered that he was securely trapped between two columns of the Federal army. In this extremity, Stuart soon determined his course. He withdrew his two brigades, artillery, and wagons to the north side of the road behind the hills, and thus escaped the obser- vation of the two wings of the Federal army. Our guns were put in position on the brow of the hill within three hundred yards of the enemy's line, and the men, huddled in close column, obeyed the order for silence, as they fully realized the peril of the situation and the proximity of the enemy. We remained in this position throughout the night, every soldier on the anxious bench and in momentary expectation of being discovered by the enemy. In the early part of the night, General Stuart directed me to send him, dismounted, two trustworthy men from Company B, to pass through the enemy's column and apprise General Lee of our situation, with the request that he would attack the enemy and afford us Bull Run to Bull Run, 175 an opportunity to escape. Crocket Eddins and my brother Richard volunteered to go on the mission. Leaving their horses and equipments with the company, they bade us fare- well, and reported to General Stuart and were given instruc- tions. Each took a separate course and safely escaped through the Yankee column. There were several others sent on the same mission, and all met at General Lee's headquarters shortly after midnight. General Stuart, in his report, says: "The six privates who volunteered to pass through the enemy's column were Robert W. Good, First Virginia Cavalry; Ashton Chichester, and Sharley, McGregor's Horse Artillery; privates Crocket Eddins and Richard Baylor, Com- pany B, Twelfth Virginia Cavalry." General Lee immediately ordered a part of General Ewell's corps to our relief, but, unfortunately, it did not arrive in time to give us any material aid. As day was breaking, General Stuart realized something must be done. In the field adjacent to our rendezvous, a large force of infantry had halted, stacked arms, and were building camp-fires and preparing for breakfast. Orders were given to mount, our seven guns were advanced further on the brow of the hill, and all was ready for action. A few moments of suspense and our guns were raining canister upon the enemy, who, surprised, rushed in every direction. They soon, however, recovered from their fright, formed line of battle and began to move on our position, but, unable to stand the fire of our guns, gave way and disappeared behind the hills. At this juncture a line of the enemy was seen moving up on our left flank, our direction of escape, and it became neces- sary to repel this advance. Colonel Ruffin, with the First North Carolina, handsomely led his men on a charge against this column, and broke the first line, capturing a large num- ber of prisoners, but was repulsed by a fresh column in rear of the first, and the men retired, leaving their gallant Colonel 174 Bull Rim to Bull Run. dead on the field. The enemy's advance was, however, checked, and Stuart, taking advantage of our temporary suc- cess, ordered the artillery and wagons to pass in rear of the enemy's position, sending Companies B and I, under my command, on the road to Catlett's Station to protect his left flank and repel any attack from that quarter. Moving rapidly down to the point indicated, the squadron was formed across the road at the edge of a piece of woods, and the men directed to hold their* fire until the enemy approached within thirty yards. We had not long to wait before the enemy's cavalry appeared in our front, and, moving up to within 250 yards of our position, called to know what command we were. Having cautioned the men to remain quiet, no answer was given. Receiving no response, they moved cautiously about, grad- ually approaching nearer and nearer. After being detained by us for some time, they boldly moved a squadron forward, and when within thirty yards the order to fire was given, many saddles were emptied, and their squadron broke and fled in confusion. Feeling assured that General Stuart had now effected his escape, and that a longer stay would likely cause our capture, the squadron was faced about and moved ofif in the direction of Warrenton, soon reaching General Stuart's command drawn up on an eminence south of Cedar river, awaiting our return. As we rode up, the General congratulated us. - 'In his offi- cial report. General Stuart says : " My extrication from this embarrassing situation with the comparatively small loss which I sustained is due, under Providence, to the gallant officers and men of my command, who, upon this trying occasion, which thoroughly tested their soldierlv character, exhibited nerve and coolness which en- titles them to the highest praise from their commander." General Warren, commanding the Second Army Corps, in his official report, says: '' Undistinguishable as this enemy was to us in the Valley Bull Run to Bull Run. 175 in the mist and gray morning light, his view of our camp- fires on the hill was clear and defined and his fire told with fatal effect, killing 11 and wounding about 12; one shell killed seven men/' General Owen, in his report of his brigade, says : " I regret to say my loss was severe, numbering seven killed and 17 wounded. General Birney reports in his command two killed and 35 wounded." In this spirited contest against such tremendous odds, we lost neither a gun nor a wagon and brought off safely 150 prisoners, besides killing and wounding a large number. On the iSth, our brigade moved forward on the road to Manassas and engaged the enemy at Yates Ford, on Bull Run, driving him from his position and bivouacking that night near Manassas. On the i6th, with Hampton's Division and four pieces of artillery, we moved towards Groveton, where we had a skirm- ish with the enemy, drove him before us, crossed Bull Run, and encamped at night near Stone Castle. Washington was now alarmed. General Meade was rapidly retiring before General Lee, and yet he was reporting that as soon as he could find Lee he would attack him. Matters were not at all satisfactory to President Lnicoln, and his wonderful horse- sense soon penetrated Meade's sham and pretence, and he writes General Halleck one of his pungent letters : Executive Mansion, Washington, October 16, 1863. Major-General Halleck : I do not believe Lee can have over 60,000 effective men. Longstreet's Corps would not be sent away to bring an equal force back on the same road; and there is no other direction for them to have come from. Doubtless in making the present movement, Lee gathered in all the available scraps, and added them to Hill's and Eweirs corps, but that is all, and he made the movement in 176 Bull Run to Bull Run. the belief that four corps had left General Meade; and Gen- eral Meade's apparently avoiding a collision with him has confirmed him in the belief. If General Meade can now attack on a field no more than equal for us and will do so with all the skill and courage which he, his officers and men pos- sess, the honor will be his, if he succeeds, and the blame may be mine, if he fails. Yours truly, A. Lincoln. On the i8th, Halleck wires Meade: " Lee is unquestionably bullying you. If you cannot ascertain his movements, I cer- tainly cannot. If you pursue and fight him, I think you will find out zvhere he is. I know of no other way." On the 1 8th, Charlestown was attacked and taken by Gen- eral Imboden, and General Kelley at Harper's Ferry became alarmed at his situation, and wired General Halleck, and Halleck curtly responded : " Should the whole of Lee's army attack Maryland Heights, the place must be held until Meade's army comes to the rescue. It can be so held, and if the officers fail to do so, they should be hung." This undue excitement on the part of the President and the generals was due, no doubt, to such reports as the following: Martinsbitrg, \V. Va., October 22, 1863. Colonel G. H. Sharp, Headquarters Army of the Potomac : Statement of William ArndoflF, a native of Jefferson county: " I was informed by a farmer by the name of Joseph Crane, who lives near Charlestown, Jefferson county, and is a very reliable man and a strong rebel, and thinks I am the same, that he would be very much disappointed if General Lee did not cross the Potomac at the Point of Rocks within ten days. This man Crane says he never had been disappointed in his opinion in reference to the rebel movements. He further stated that Imboden's command fell back to Front Royal, there to divide their forces into two separate commands. One is to advance by the wav of Berry ville and Charlestown; the other, to keep north of the turnpike and surround and cap- ture the forces stationed at this post. He also said that Julian Hutchinson. 178 Bull Run to Bull Run, General Lee has the largest and finest army he has ever had. He further stated that Jenkins was to unite his forces with Imboden.'* This gentleman (Arndoflf) has been heretofore employed as a spy, and is acting in that capacity at present. I this day sent the said Arndoflf to Front Royal, Luray, and various other places. He is a responsible man. I took his bond for $5,000. Michael Graham. It is not stated that Arndoflf ever paid the bond. I knew Colonel Crane well, and Arndoflf did not deceive the old gen- tleman much. He had fully measured Arndoflf before he spoke. I can imagine the mischievous twinkle of his eye, as with the Jack O'Lantern of his mind he illumined the hypo- critical Arndoflf and " filled his belly with the east wind " of this Munchausen invention. I will now return to our brigade. On the 17th we marched to the Little River turnpike, three miles below Aldie; on the 1 8th we moved to Gainesville and went into camp above Hay- market, and the next day reached Buckland, where the enemy attacked and we fell back slowly to Chestnut Hill, within two and one-half miles of Warrenton. General Stuart was in command, and this retreat was a ruse to draw the enemy for- ward, to allow General Fitz Lee to reach his rear. At this point. General Stuart, hearing Lee's guns, suddenly turned about, routed the enemy, and ran them back to Buckland, and so the fight was known as the Buckland races. Stuart captured in this engagement 250 prisoners, eight wagons and ambulances, with many horses, arms and equipments. General Stuart, in his report of the Buckland fight, says : " The force opposed to us on this occasion consisted of ten regiments of cavalry and six pieces of artillery, commanded by General Kilpatrick, and I am justified in declaring the rout of the enemy at Buckland the most signal and complete that any cavalry has suflfered during the war. It is remarkable that Kilpatrick's Division seemed to disappear from the field Bull Run to Bull Run. lyp of operations for more than a month, that time bein^ neces- sary, no doubt, to collect the panic-stricken fugitives." I remember on this occasion finding Jim Randall after the fight, sitting near a dying Federal officer, and, inquiring of him what he was doing, he replied: "Am waiting for this fellow to die, so I can get his watch and ring/' While he was engaged in conversation with me, an old North Caro- linian rode up, and, spying the watch-chain and ring, dis- mounted and gathered them in, much to the chagrin and disappointment of Jim. Jim's conscience was tenderer than the North Carolinian's, and he lost the prize. This fight terminated the Bristow campaign, and on the 20th we moved back and took up quarters near Culpeper, establishing pickets on the south bank of the Rappahannock. On the morning after our return, Company B was agree- ably surprised by an order from General Lee, received through General Stuart, granting the company a furlough of ten davs, with permission to return to our homes in Jefferson, as a reward for gallant conduct at Warrenton Springs. A shout went up as we moved off for home, friends and relatives; and, notwithstanding the fact that those homes were within the Federal lines, no blockade was sufficient to keep us out, and the time was happily spent. CHAPTER XIII. And the stately ships go on. To the haven under the hill; But O for the touch of a vanished hand, And the sound of a voice that is still! Tennyson, On the return of Company B to camp, I found that Colonel Thomas L. Rosser, of the Fifth Virginia Cavalry, had been promoted to the rank of brigadier-general and assigned to our brigade. He was a dashing, fine-looking man, was a cadet at West Point from Louisiana, when the war broke out, resigned, returned to his home, and was made a lieutenant in the Washington Artillery of New Orleans, and from this position had worked his way up to his present rank. Meade's army had moved east, to the vicinity of Frede- ricksburg, and our force, to confront it, had moved in the same direction, the Federal army occupying the northern bank of the Rappahannock and the Confederate army the southern bank. On the morning of the 25th of November, our brigade moved down in the direction of Chancellorsville, and ascer- tained from our pickets at Ely's and Gold Mine Fords, that the enemy was crossing in force and advancing towards Chancellorsville. Our direction was changed to Tod's Tavern, on the flank of General Lee's army, where we encamped for the night. The following day we moved to the Brock road, and striking the Plank road, fell on the wagon-train of the First and Fifth Federal army corps. As we approached this road, the Twelfth regiment in front, Company B leading the advance, we rode into the wagon- train without opposition, and, turning to the right, moved some distance through the train before encountering any material force. On meeting a heavy infantry guard, a retreat [180] Bull Run to Bull Run. i8i was ordered, and we moved slowly back. We succeeded in destroying about 40 wagons and in bringing oflF about the same number, with seven ambulances, 230 mules and horses, and 95 prisoners. My part of the booty on this occasion was Major-General Bartlett's trunk, filled with shirts, collars, and underwear, and his measure being about mine, and my needs more pressing, all were appropriated to my personal use. The trunk was brought safely through the war and given to a brother, just then in search of such an article. Our brigade returned in the afternoon to Tod's Tavern and bivouacked for the night. On the morning of the 29th, the brigade moved by way of Catharpin road to Parker's Store, on the Plank road, where a regiment of the enemy's cavalry was found on picket duty, with Gregg's Division in close proximity. The Seventh regiment being in front its advance dashed on the pickets, 10 to 15 in number, securing them all as prisoners, and then charged into the reserve, closely followed by the remainder of the regiment, but from the nature of the ground and inter- vening obstacles, the regiment was thrown into confusion. White's Battalion and the Twelfth were now ordered up. White attacked on the right flank and the Twelfth in front, sweeping everything before them, killing, wounding, and capturing a large number and taking possession of their camp. They had just prepared breakfast. The coffee was smoking and the repast altogether so inviting that George Timberlake, of our company, dismounted and proceeded to enjoy the feast, when the enemy, suddenly charging, cap- tured George before he could remount. At this juncture the fight became general, and Hampton, coming up with the North Carolina Brigade, the enemy were soon driven back. Over 100 prisoners were captured with arms and equipments, several ambulances, and a large amount of commissar}^ stores. In the engagement my brother Richard was mortally wounded, and brought back to near Verdiersville, where he died the following day. He was a brave and gallant soldier, and had been wounded in 1862 near Charlestown. i8^ Bull Run to Bull Run. (icncral Stuart, in his official report of this engagement, savs: w " ( )ur losses were slight in number, but two valuable offi- cers of the North Carolina Brigade (Captain Reese and Lieu- tcMiant Capeland) were killed. General Rosser lost three men killed and 15 wounded. Private Richard Baylor, Company I>, Twelfth \'irginia Cavalry, a soldier of distinguished bravery, and one of those who volunteered to pass through the enemy at Auburn in October, was among the killed." General Gregg, in his official report, says: " On the 29th of November, Hampton's Division of rebel cavalry made a strong attack at Parker's Store, with the view of falling upon the wagon-trains of the army. The pickets of the regiment at Parker's Store were rapidly driven in. The regiment engaged in distributing rations were attacked on all sides and compelled to retire toward the Wilderness. But sooner than they expected, I moved three regiments of the Second Brigade, with a section of King's Battery, Fourth United States Artillery, toward Parker's Store. The Second and Sixteenth Pennsylvania in advance met the enemy, charged him, releasing prisoners, and compelled the retire- ment of the enemy. The two regiments at Parker's Store lost a portion of their rations, and one wagon was burned to pre- vent its falling into the hands of the enemy. On this day, the loss to the division was four officers w-ounded (one since died), seven enlisted men killed, and 40 enlisted men wounded, and one officer and 54 enlisted men missing." In the various battles of the war up to this period, I had mourned the death of friends and relatives, but the loss of a brother, just two years my senior, and with whom I had been intimately associated from childhood, as schoolmate and partner in all my sports and pleasures, touched a nearer, tenderer chord, and inflicted a blow not soon forgotten. A short time after this engagement, our brigade was Samuel Wrierht and E. Morton Lackland. 284 Bull Run to Bull Run. ordered to Hamilton's Crossing, near Fredericksburg. Gen- eral Meade, having seen a ghost at Mine Run, had hastily retired across the Rappahannock. We remained at Hamil- ton's Crossing until the 17th of December, when we crossed the Rappahannock at Fredericksburg and began a movement in rear of Meade's army. The brigade was poorly equipped for such a winter expedition. The greater part of our wagons and all our winter clothing had been stored in the Valley the preceding spring, and no opportunity afforded us of pro- curing them. The morning after the river was crossed, it be- gan raining, snowing, and sleeting, but onward we went, until we reached Sangster's Station, near Fairfax, on the Manassas Gap railroad, where about 200 infantry were for- tified and opposed our march. The Seventh regiment was in front, and the advance squadron charged through a stream of water and over the railroad bank, gaining the enemy's rear. The Eleventh coming up, dashed forward, and the Yankees surrendered. Our loss was a gallant officer. Captain Cartmell, of the Eleventh, and we captured about 200 prison- ers and their arms. It was on this trip, if my memory serves me right, that our adjutant and I practiced a cruel joke on our chaplain and regimental surgeon. These gentlemen were piously inclined. as chaplains generally and surgeons sometimes are, and were both fond of the ladies, and something more palatable than camp diet. As the brigade was marching leisurely along, some one called attention to a house on our way some dis- tance in advance, and remarked that it was occupied by a certain lady, naming her, generally well known by reputation in armv circles. I will sav her name was not Rahab, but she bore somewhat the same unsavory reputation, and was known for her hospitality. At the Adjutant's suggestion and with the assent if not approval of our General, who enjoyed a littl^ fun equally as much as his men, we proposed to our chaplain and surgeon to ride ahead of our column, stop at this house, warm ourselves, and get something to eat. In utter igno- Bull Run to Bull Run, 185 ranee of the nature of this establishment, these pious fellows fell into our trap and away we galloped. Arriving at the mansion, our horses were fastened and we were soon enjoy- ing a good old-time wood fire. Two ladies presently made their appearance, handsomely dressed, and as the Adjutant and myself were more boyish in appearance than the chaplain and surgeon, they seated themselves by the latter and opened a sprightly conversation. These gentlemen seemed highly pleased and delighted at their cordial reception, and matters were progressing finely, when our brigade approached and raised a shout as they recognized the chaplain's and surgeon's horses fastened at this abode. As this shout reached our ears, the ladies threw their arms around the necks of these inno- cents and made other demonstrations of violent aflfection. At this juncture the adjutant and myself slipped out of the door, soon followed by the chaplain and surgeon, boiling over with wrath, disgust, and indignation, who, as they mounted their horses, were greeted with cheers and laughter from the brigade. The surgeon never forgave this cruel joke, and re- fused to speak to us, but the chaplain, a good-natured, popu- lar fellow, seemed rather to enjoy the surgeon's discomfiture. This might appear nowadays a rather unwarrantable liberty with these gentlemen, but soldiers must have something to break the monotonv of their lives. No one was hurt in either morals or reputation, as the matter was soon understood by all. Our march was resumed and Bull Run crossed with much difficulty, as the stream was greatly swollen by rain. The night was exceeding dark, and our progress was slow and difficult. About midnight a northwester sprung up, and the rain, freezing as it fell, the men became cold and stifif in their saddles. At daylight Middleburg was reached and the brigade continued to Upperville to feed. On our arrival there, many of the men had to be lifted from their horses and warmed up before they could move; but a warm breakfast, with a taste of old rye, revived our spirits and the i86 . Bull Run to Bull Run. m journey was renewed with more spirit and cheerfulness. When we reached the Shenandoah, at Berry's Ferry, it was so much swollen that a crossing could not be effected, and we pro- ceeded up the eastern side of the stream above Swift Run Gap before a crossing could be had. After passing over the river, the brigade passed down the Valley to Mount Jackson and encamped. On December 31st, our brigade, with a portion of General Fitz Lee's Division, left Mount Jackson and marched to Moorefield. The weather was intensely cold and the moun- tain road so slippery that our artillery and our quartermaster wagons were compelled to return. After reaching Moorefield we moved towards New Creek, capturing a train of 40 wagons, 240 horses and mules, and 250 cattle. At Burlington we took a few prisoners. The weather now became unen- durable, and the suffering of the men so gjeat that the brigade was forced to return to the Valley and go into winter quar- ters. On the 28th of January following, our brigade, under Gen- eral Rosser, with four pieces of artillery, moved to Moorefield, arriving there on the evening of the 29th. On the 30th, we moved across the mountains towards New Creek Grade. In the mountain pass a regiment of Federal infantry opp>osed our progress by felling trees across the road and digging it away on the hillside. Rosser, dismounting shaip-shooters from the Eleventh and Twelfth regiments and White's Bat- talion, made no headway against this force so advantageously posted. To expedite matters, he directed me to take the first squadron of the Twelfth, Companies B and I, pass over the mountains by a by-path, intercept communications be- tween New^ creek and Petersburg, and attack the enemy in the rear. Furnished with a guide, we passed up a steep ascent of the mountain, frequently obliged to dismount and lead our horses up the narrow and dangerous defile, reached the New creek grade after a long and tedious journey and prepared to move on the enemy's rear. Having been informed by Gen- Bull Run to Bull Run. 187 eral Rosser that the enemy only had a squadron of cavalry, and, feeling assured that our squadron was a match for it, all fears for our safety were allayed. Passing down the moun- tain road a short distance, my advance galloped back, inform- ing me that the enemy was charging us. The road being circuitous at this point, the enemy could not be seen, but, supposing the force charging was the enemy's cavalry, a counter-charge was ordered, and as we passed a bend in the. road at. full speed, we ran into a regiment of infantry. It was too late to retreat, so, as we dashed into their front files, the regiment broke to the wood on either side; but, being unable to cope with them, we were forced to retreat, with the loss of a gallant comrade, Samuel Wright, of Company B. An overshadowing Providence alone protected us from terrible slaughter. Retiring in the direction of the New-creek grade, the squadron was drawn up at the base of the mountain to await results. In a few moments the enemy debouched from the mountain pass at a double-quick, reached the New-creek grade, moved in the direction of New creek, and were soon joined by reinforcements. In a few moments after the enemy passed out, Rosser appeared with his brigade and artillery, and we joined them and pressed on after the enemy. Over- taking them after a short march, we found them prepared to receive us, with a large wagon-train parked in their rear. Although they outnumbered our force, Rosser speedily made .preparations for attack. The men with carbines were dis- mounted and the ball opened. The mounted men of the Twelfth were sent to our right to reach the rear of the enemy and attack, while the residue of our command attacked the front and left flank. Having reached our position, which was on a hill sloping towards the enemy, Colonel Massie ordered me to lead the charge with the first squadron on the enemy's right and rear. On leaving Staunton a few days prior to starting on this expedition a lady friend had handed me her handkerchief, with the request that I should wear it in the next fight. i88 Bull Run to Bull Run. Remembering my promise, it was fastened to my hat-cord, and in the breeze floated as a white plume. Drawing up the squadron in platoons, I addressed them as follows : " Soldiers, the enemy is before you. In victory there is safety and glory; in defeat, ignominy and disgrace. You will not hesitate. The eyes of your General and of your fellow- soldiers are upon you. Virginia, your mother, bids you god- speed and the prayers of her fair daughters attend you. The eternal God is our refuge and underneath are the everlasting arms.'* " Then conquer we must, for our cause it is juat. Let this be our motto: * In God is our trust. ' Charge! boys, charge! " Down the slope the squadron rushed with impetuous ardor, sweeping everything before them. Colonel Massie, with the rest of the mounted men of the Twelfth, following closely in our track, and General Rosser, with the rest of the brigade, pressing in front, the enemy broke in confusion and aban- doned the train. Just as the first squadron reached the wagon- train, a Federal soldier, about fifteen yards to my right, level- ing his gun on me, fired. I saw his movement and dodged to one side of my horse to disconcert his aim, but his ball passed through my left shoulder and rendered me hors de combat In a few moments I was taken from my horse, and bandages being scarce, the handkerchief was taken from my hat to staunch the flow of blood. Our regimental surgeon soon appearing, my wound was properly dressed and bandaged, and an ambulance conveyed me to Moorefield. The loss in our brigade was 24 killed and wounded. The enemy lost 80 killed and wounded, 40 prisoners, one major (Judge Goff), and two captains. We captured 95 wagons heavily loaded with stores and a large number of mules. A correspondent of the Richmond Enquirer, accompany- ing our brigade on this expedition, gives the following account of this engagement: John Le'wiB. ipo Bull Run to Bull Run, '' The foray made by Early, Fitz Lee, and Rosser about the first of January, 1864, proving rather unsuccessful, it was ordered that General Early, with one brigade of infantry (Gen- eral Thomas's), Rosser's brigade of cavalry, and McCalla- • ban's Battery, should make another effort toward relieving the border of Yankees and cattle. Information had been received that a large supply-train would move from New Creek to Petersburg on a certain day; and, moreover, it was necessary that we should hold Petersburg in order to make our search for cattle successful. The plan of operations having been decided upon. General Early, with Thomas's brigade of infantry, crossed by Orkney Springs. General Rosser's brigade, with McCallahan's Battery at Brock's Gap, forming a junction at Mathias's on the 31st, and entering Moorefield on the ist of February. That night our picket on the Petersburg road, through negligence, was captured by a scouting party of the enemy that advanced within a half-mile of General Early's headquarters, without becoming aware of our presence. General Rosser, in order to prevent com- munication between Petersburg and the expected train, sent out Baylor's squadron of the Twelfth Virginia Cavalry, with a guide, to intercept couriers passing from one point to another. The brigade moved oflF about 10 A. M. on the road crossing the mountain and intersecting the Petersburg and New-Creek road about five miles above Williamsport. As we were approaching the top of the mountain, our advance guard was checked by an infantry picket of the enemy about 200 strong, which had been engaged in obstructing the road. They moved off rapidly and safely, for pursuit was impracti- cable in consequence of the thorough blockade the enemy had constructed by throwing heavy timber across the road for a distance of three miles and digging away the road itself for some distance. These obstacles, by means of axes and picks in the hands of eager and determined men, were speedily removed, and in a few moments the Yankees were again in sight, in rapid rout for the Petersburg road. The Bull Run to Bull Run. ipi Twelfth moving down on them, speedily checked them up, but was unable to inflict any injury on account of the enemy's position, w^ho had lost no time in esconscing himself in the thick growth on the side of the mountain. At this crisis, how- ever, Baylor's squadron, misled through the ignorance of the guide, came up in the rear of the enemy and speedily dis- lodged him. General Rosser, following with his cavalry and battery, turned towards Williamsport and came up in sight of the enemy about two miles below, just as the Yankee picket met their main column. The Yankees were i,ioo strong, under Colonel Snyder. Confident of easy victory, they had parked their train, and were prepared to receive us. " General Rosser, dismounting detachments of the Seventh, Eleventh, and Twelfth and White's battalion, in all about 300 men, placing his battery in position and throwing forward the remaining squadron of the Seventh under Major Myers to charge the enemy when an opportunity ofifered, sent Lieu- tenant-Colonel Massie, with the rest of the Twelfth Virginia, to make a demonstration in the enemy's rear, intercept com- munications, and blockade the road and commence the attack. Here was presented a sight novel and suggestive — dis- mounted cavalry, with short-range guns, attacking more than three times their number of infantry, prepared both by time and position to receive them. Pressing rapidly on the enemy, he drove them from one position to another until, having fairly uncovered the train, the appearance of our cavalry in their rear excited an agitation in their ranks, which the effec- tive charge of Major Myers quickly fomented into a panic, and the enemy sought safety in the neighboring mountains. Ninety wagons, 450 mules, flour, bacon, salt, molasses, sugar, coffee, beans, rice, overcoats and blankets, with four sutler wagons, loaded with all manner of eatables and wearables, were the booty captured. We reached camp on the 6th with 1,200 cattle and the capture already named. Our casualties are Lieutenant Howell, of the Seventh, lost an arm; Captain Richardson, of the Eleventh, shot through the leg; the gal- /p^ Bull Run to Bull Run. lant Lieutenant Baylor, wounded in the shoulder; John H. Buck, of the brigade staff, in the leg." This correspondent fails to note that Samuel Wright, Com- pany B, of the Twelfth, was killed, and Charles Wiltshire, Company A, of the Twelfth, wounded. Colonel Snyder, commanding, in his official report to Gen- eral Mulligan, says: *' In obedience to your orders, I started in command of the escort to supply-train for the garrison at Petersburg on Friday, January 29, 1864. On the next morning I received a dispatch from Colonel Thoburn requesting me to hurry up the train, that the Twenty-third Illinois regiment was at Moorefield Junction. Later in the day couriers came back with the request from Lieutenant-Colonel Quirk to push for- ward the train. The train was moved forward with all possi- ble speed and proceeded unmolested until we arrived at Medley, two and one-half miles below Moorefield Junction, where I met Lieutenant-Colonel Quirk, commanding Twenty-third Illinois, falling back before the advance of the enemy. Being the ranking ofificer present, I assumed com- mand of the forces and immediately formed line of battle on the right of the road, the Twenty-third Illinois, Lieutenant- Colonel Quirk, occupying the left, a detachment of the Second IMaryland the center, four companies of the Fourth West Virginia Cavalry occupying the right. Two companies ' of the Fourth were placed in position on our right flank, also a detachment of the Ringold Battalion, Lieutenant Speer, to prevent, if possible, a flank movement by the enemy. Two companies of the Fourth were ordered to take position on our left flank to prevent a similar movement of the enemy, and the two remaining companies of the Fourth were placed in rear of the center, to be used as the emergencies of the en- gagement might demand. I had scarcely got my command in position when the enemy opened upon us with two pieces of artillery, their infantry advancing at the same time, which Bull Run to Bull Run. Jp5 was met by a galling fire from my fronts and caused them to fall back. Thrice they attempted the same thing, with the same results. "During the engagement in front, the enemy was extending their flanks, either of which lines — front, right, or left — was larger than my entire command. At this crisis, I ordered the train to be turned and started back, but to my great morti- fication two of the trainmasters had fled, and ail the teamsters, with few exceptions. The position of my command was be- coming perilous. I discovered that the train must be aban- doned in order to save my command from capture. I then ordered my men to fall back to an elevation, where we re-formed in line of battle, giving the enemy several volleys, which checked their advance. Having foiled the enemy in their designs as long as it was possible for my little command to do so, having fought against great adds for one hour and twenty minutes, to save my command from capture, I was- compelled to ord'cr a retreat, which I did,, my command leaving the field slowly and in line of battle. My entire loss, killed, wounded, and missing, is as follows: Major N. Goff, Jr., Fourth West Virginia Cavalry, captured (horse shot, fell on his leg, and could not extricate himself); Lieutenant Elliott, slightly wounded; privates — killed, five; wounded, 34; missing, 35. I am confident the enemy's loss was much greater than ours. From information received since the engagement I am justified in saying that the rebel force con- sisted of Rosser's command of Early's Corps, with five pieces of artillery." After reading this report carefully, I am inclined to believe that Colonel Snyder fought like Falstaff by Shrewsbury clock. General Kelley, in his report, says : " Colonel Thoburn's wagon-train was attacked and cap- tured yesterday. We lost about 80 men killed and wounded. The enemy's loss was much greater. We lost the wagon- train almost entirely." 13 Ip4 Bull Run to Bull Run. The night after this fight was spent by me at the hospitable home of Mr. McMechen, in Moorefield, and my old college- nii'ite at Dickinson, Dr. O. S. Williams, dressed my wound, and every care and attention was shown me by the family of Mr. McMechen. The next day, in company with the body of my comnidc, Sam Wright, I reached Mathias, and the fol- Inwinj^ (lay Harrisonburg, and was comfortably quartered as I lie j^niest of my cousins. Colonel A. S. Gray's family. I remember while at Colonel Gray's, playing the role of an ancient 1 lohson. There was visiting at this home, a dashing, handsome young lady, who played the guitar and sang divinely. My left arm was bandaged to my side. One day as 1 sal listening to her syren strains I became so infatuated that 1 coiild not resist the impulse, and, seizing a favorable oppor- Umity, while she was playing and singing in the parlor, with no one nigh, neared her side just as she reached " Chamouni, Sweet Chamouni ! Oh, the vale of Chamouni," clasped her neck with my right arm, and imprinted a kiss on her cheek. i )own went the guitar, and, jumping up and facing me, she exclaimed, " You impudent soldier," and, going to the hall, called the ladies of the house and accused me before them. This w^as a kiss that even yet has a lingering sweetness, worth ten thousand of these modern Hobsonian, microbian, bac- terian, pro bono publico osculations. Remaining at Harrisonburg about two weeks, I moved to Staunton and was quartered in the Confederate Hospital, where I remained until the ist of May following. While there I returned the handkerchief to its fair owner, dyed in my blood, but beyond her kindness and attention nothing more romantic grew out of the aflfair. Our brigade, after this trip, remained quiet in camp near I farrisonburg and near Balcony Falls. At the Harrisonburg camp, by a coup d'etat, or, possibly a coup de main, Company H succeeded in relieving Dr. Burton, our brigade surgeon, of a keg of fine brandy, obtained by him for medicinal pur- poses, but most generally used by the brigade and regimental ip6 Bull Run to Bull Run. officers for home consumption. I learned afterwards how the robbery was effected. The term of enlistment of the regiment was expiring, and a good deal of enthusiasm was being" aroused by the officers to encourage the men to re-enlist. Some of Company B had been in the Surgeon's tent and learned of the arrival of the brandy, and the Doctor's en- thusiasm on the subject of re-enlistment (mostly produced by the brandy). Having laid their plans, they marched in a body to the Doctor's tent and called on him for a speech, and while the boys in front of the tent were cheering and applaud- ing the Doctor's feeble efforts,' a chosen detail raised the rear of the tent, rolled out the keg and bore it off in triumph. That night, as the Doctor was about to take his retiring drink, the keg was missed, but no clue to its whereabouts could be obtained. On a visit to the camp, on one occasion, the Doctor came to see me, saying he knew Company B had his keg of brandy, and if I \yould see the boys and get them to return him a gal- lon he would say nothing more about the matter; but I resented so foul an imputation upon the good name of Com- pany B, though I was satisfied from what I had seen and heard .that the accusation was well founded. Dr. Burton never got a drink of that brandy, but Company B had a merry time over it for a couple of weeks. Lieutenant Washington awoke one night and found two spies standing over his tent and watching his movements, but on complaint to headquarters. no further steps were taken to ascertain the culprits. Com- pany B drank the brandy, grew enthusiastic, and unani- mously re-enlisted. General Rosser having made his report on the fight near Medley and the capture of the enemy's train, it was indorsed bv General Stuart as follows: " Respectfully forwarded. The bold and successful enter- prise herein reported furnishes additional proof of General Rosser's merits as a commander, and adds fresh laurels to that veteran brigade so signalized for valor already." Bull Run to Bull Run. 7p7 After this, General Rosser, in a general order, baptized the brigade '' The Laurel Brigade," and directed that each mem- ber of the command should wear a laurel leaf on his hat; an order not relished by the men, and " more honored in the breach than the observance." They recognized that while there was a time to fight, there was also a time to run, and it would be the height of infamy and disgrace to engage in the latter with such a civic crown publicly displayed, and they were not yet prepared for the last-ditch extremity. The residue of the winter was passed by the company in the quietude of camp. Occasionally, in the latter part of the season, gathering a few hospital patients, I would make a little sally into the lower Valley, more for the purpose of visiting my home and friends than attacking the enemy. General Averill seems to have been informed of these visits by his argus-eyed and his hundredfold magnifying patrol, as on March lo, 1864, he wires General Sullivan at Harper's Ferry : " It is reported by my patrol that about 90 rebels, under Baylor, are hovering about Smithfield." I remember returning from one of these trips with my friend, Captain John Opie, of Staunton, and passing up the Luray Valley. Night overtook us near an old war acquaintance, Mr. Peter Keyser, who lived on the west bank of the east fork of the Shenan- doah. When the river was reached, it was too dark to dis- tinguish the ford, and we halted on the east bank for some time, debating whether the crossing should be attempted and which should be the leader. Both were equally incapacitated, each having an arm in the sling. John, however, was a good swimmer, an art never learned by me. It was finally deter- mined that I should lead the wav, so into the stream I plunged, trusting my horse, a fine one, would bear me over safely. As I was mounting the opposite bank I heard a splash and cry for help, and, looking back, saw John in the water, with his hand holding his stirrup strap, and his horse bravely making for shore, which he reached in safety, John only worsted by a good ducking. Hurrying up to Mr. Key- ipS Bull Run to Bull Run. ser's, he and his two daughters gave us a kind welcome, and we were soon warming before a rousing old-time wood fire. Mr. Ke^^ser insisted that John should change his garments and put on a suit of his clothing, while his own were dried. Now, it so happened that Mr. Keyser was a portly, corpulent man, weighing, possibly, three hundred pounds, and John was tall, spare, and slender. At the first entreaty, John de- clined the old gentleman's kindness, evidently recognizing the misfit with a glance, but his condition was so uncomfort- able that he finally assented, and he and his host retired for the exchange. In a half-hour, John returned to the parlor, where the young ladies and myself were engaged in conver- sation, and the metamorphosis was so great that as our eyes fell upon him the whole party roared with laughter. John's legs seemed a foot too long for the pants and the pants- seemed a foot too wide for his legs; the seat of the trousers bagged about as if needing a feather bed to complete the outfit, while the little shadbelly coat lacked a heavy stomacher to keep its sides from too much overlap. He was the skeleton, in the fat man's clothes. John grew angry at our irresistible merriment and so much exasperated with me that in the morning he challenged me to fight. I declined to accommo- date him for the present, stating that when I got through the job on hand with the Yankees I would consider the matter, well knowing he was too proud and honorable to murder me. He can now smile faintlv over this incident, but it still rankles in his bosom. CHAPTER XIV. No star ever rose And set, without influence somewhere. Who knows What earth needs from earth's lowest creature! No life Can be pure in its purpose and strong in its strife And all life not be purer and stronger thereby. Limlle. On March lo, 1864, General Grant was given command of all the armies of the United States, with headquarters nomi- nally in Washington, but in fact in the field with the Army of the Potomac, and with unlimited supplies of men and material at his command, preparations on a grand scale were made for crushing the Army of Northern Virginia in the coming cam- paign. General Scott had tried it and been sent back from Manassas in great rout and panic. McClellan had been called from West Virginia to supersede Scott, and had organized a larger, grander army, with the bombastic Pope as an ally, but the battles around Richmond, at Cedar Mountain and at Second Manassas had shorn the locks of both. On the 5th of November, 1862, McClellan had been re- lieved and Burnside put in command, but Fredericksburg's bloody massacre ended his little hour on the stage, and Hooker entered in the next act. On the 26th of January, 1863, Mr. Lincoln wrote him as follows: " General, I have placed you at the head of the Army of the Potomac. Of course, I have done this upon what appears to me sufficient reasons, yet I think it best for you to know that there are some things in regard to which I am not quite satisfied with you. I believe you to be a brave and skillful soldier, which, of course, I like. I also believe you do not mix politics with your profession, in which you are right. You have confidence in yourself, which is a valuable, if not an [199] 200 Bull Run to Bull Run. indispensable quality. You are ambitious, which, within reasonable bounds, does good rather than harm; but I think that during General Burnside's command of the army, you have taken counsel of your ambition, and thwarted him as much as you could, in which you did a great wrong to the country, and to a most meritorious and honorabl-e brother officer. I have heard in such a way as to believe it, of your recently saying that both the army and the government needed a dictator. Of course, it was not for this, but in spite of it, that I have given you the command. Only those gen- erals who gain successes can set up dictators. What I now ask of you is military success and I will risk the dictatorship." On the same day Hooker took command, and issued his general order to the army, in which he said : ** In equipment, intelligence and valor the enemy is our inferior; let us never hesitate to give him battle, wherever we can find him/' After not very diligent search he found him at Chancellors- ville, and after the loss of 1,700 men, retreated by night to the north bank of the Rappahannock and issued another general order, in which he said : " Profoundly loyal and conscious of its strength, the Army of the Potomac will give or decline battle whenever its in- terest or honor will demand. It will also be the guardian of its own historv and its own fame.'' Poor Hooker! How heavilv he fell! "Ambition should be made of sterner stuff." Where is thy dictatorship? The ingredients of success are wanting, thy doom is pronounced, and the ghost of Meade, with a kingly crown, walks upon the stage. Meade struts his little hour upon that stage and the glory of Grant soon obscures him. On the 3d of May, 1864, the amiies of Grant and Lee began to move, and our brigade was ordered east of the mountains. The men and horses, refreshed from the rest of the past three Wm Locke. 202 Bull Run to Bull Run, months, were now ready for another campaign. The brigade reached Waynesboro on the 3d, and bivouacked for the night. Having learned of its movements, I bade the hospital farewell and reported for duty. On the 4th, crossed the Blu€ Ridge and passed through Charlottesville on our way to Tod's Tavern. The next day, as we were nearing Tod's Tavern, with the Twelfth Cavalry in front and Companies B and I in advance, under Captain Louis Harman (w^ho had lately been promoted from adjutant of our regiment to the captaincy of Company I), we suddenly encountered the advance of Wilson's Division of Cavalry. General Rosser, who was riding with the advance, immediately ordered a charge, and off the squadi'on went, striking the enemy a blow which caused a panic and flight without much resistance. Rushing the advance back on its regiment, that also broke and joined in the retreat. Sabers were freely used on the retreating foe, and large numbers of them captured. Our advantage was pressed with vigor about two miles, when we ran into a brigade of the enemy drawn up to receive us, and so close was the pursuit that our front files passed through the enemy's line, with the fugitives, before the situation was realized. The enemy soon began to close in upon us, anticipating an easy capture, as our support had been so far outdistanced in the race as to afford us no help. At this point, there was a thick wood on our left, and, turning my horse into the wood, most of the men followed and all escaped, a few having re- ceived slight saber cuts. Captain Harman, however, was riding an unmanageable horse, and, being unable to turn it into the wood, was carried on into the midst of the enemy, and was captured. Having reached the road in front of the enemy, we were driven back upon our regiment, when the tide of battle was again turned and the enemy repulsed. The rest of the brigade now coming up, a portion of the men were dismounted and a steady forward movement begun. After driving the enemy some distance, a favorable opportunity be- ing offered, a charge of mounted men was ordered, the enemy Bull Run to Bull Run, 20^ routed, driven in confusion beyond Tod's Tavern, many being killed, wound-ed, and captured. It was on this occasion, just after the rout of the enemy, that Major McDonald, of the Eleventh, in the midst of the pursuit, became so enthused that he grasped General Rosser around the waist, exclaiming, *' General, isn't this glorious ! " and together they went down the road full tilt, to the great amusement of the brigade. The enemy were driven over the Po river upon their infantry lines, and the pursuit was abandoned. From prisoners taken we learned that the force encountered was Wilson's Division, comprising three brigades of cavalry, with one battery, while on our side the fight was maintained by one brigade alone. In this engagement Company B lost in killed John Smith and William Averiil, and Phil Copeland, Jimmie Crane, Daniel Dovenberger, Crocket Eddins, Duck English, Abe Gordon, Charlie Henderson, Dave Lewis, George Wingard, and Tom Zombro, wounded. The loss in our brigade — killed, wounded, and missing — was 114. The Federal report of casualties in Wilson's Division shows a loss of three officers and 94 men killed, 2y officers and 389 men wounded, and 10 officers and 187 men missing. On the afternoon of the 5th, while we were driving Wilson in rout and confusion, General Gregg's Division came to his rescue, and after a severe con- test our brigade was driven back over the Po, and encamped that night on the west bank of that stream. General Lee, in his report to the Secretary of War, says : **A large force of cavalry and artillery on our right flank was driven back by Rosser's Brigade." General Wilson, in his report, says: '' By 8 A. M. the Second Brigade, with the First Vermont Cavalry, Colonel Preston commanding, in advance, had arrived at Craig's Meeting-House. Just beyond they encoun- tered the enemy's cavalry, Rosser's Brigade, and after a very sharp fight and several handsome charges, drove it rapidly 204 Bull Run to Bull Run, back a distance of two miles, taking" some prisoners. About noon Chapman's ammunition became exhausted, and, fear- ing to press the pursuit too far, I directed him to hold the position he then occupied and observe closely the movements of the enemy's troops. Having observed the menacing dis- position of the enemy in front of Chapman's Brigade, I directed him to collect his dismounted men and be prepared to fall back if the enemy should press him too severely. Soon after this, having received reinforcements, the enemy ad- vanced and compelled Chapman to retire. It was now apparent that the rebel force was considerably superior to ours, and, being short of ammunition, I directed Chapman to fall back rapidly beyond the Meeting-House, and reform in rear of the First Brigade. My headquarters having been located at Mrs. Faulkner's house, when the rebels arrived at that place, my escort, composed of about 50 men of the Eighth Illinois Cavalry, commanded by Lieutenant Long, Third Indiana Cavalry, gave them a severe ch-eck, and in con- junction with a heavy fire from Pennington's and Fitzhugh's batteries, enabled everything to withdraw from the main road to the position occupied by the First Brigade. I had scarcely arrived there, however, when I was informed by Col- onel Bryan that the enemy had made his appearance at an early hour in the forenoon in his rear, on the road to Parker's Store, and that none of my couriers to General Meade had succeeded in getting through. Surprised at this, and fearing for the safety of my command, I immediately determined to withdraw by a blind road by Tod's Tavern to Chancellors- ville. I had scarcely taken this resolution, when I perceived that the enemy was pushing rapidly down the Catharpin road in the same direction. The march was begun at once; the Second Brigade in advance, followed the batteries and the First Brigade. The Eighteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, Lieu- tenant-Colonel W. P. Brinton commanding, was left to cover the rear. The main column crossed the Po near its head, and struck the Catharpin road just beyond Corbin's Bridge. It Bull Run to Bull Run, 205 had scarcely got upon the road, when the rebels made their appearance on the hill west of the bridge. I succeeded in reaching the road with my escort just in time to prevent being cut off. The rear-guard found the road occupied by the enemy, but Colonel Brinton made three brilliant and deter- mined charges, breaking the enemy's cavalry, but finding he could not succeed in getting through without heavy loss, he struck off to the left and joined the division late in the even- ing. At Tod's Tavern I found Brigadier-General Gregg, with his division, and, passing behind him, formed my command to .assist in holding the place. Gregg moved promptly out, attacked th€ enemy, and after a sharp fight, repulsed him." From General Wilson's report it will be seen that our brigade, three regiments and a battalion of cavalry, had re- pulsed his whole division of cavalry and driven it in rout beyond the Po, and he was obliged to re-form his command in rear of Gregg, and then with these two divisions, comprising 17 regiments and six batetries, they had driven us back, after a severe fight, across the river. General Davies, of Gregg's Division, in his report, says : ** On the morning of the 5th, we marched to Tod's Tavern, and on arriving there, relieved the Third Division. We fought until dark, and succeeded in driving the enemy. Lost 61 men, mostly from the First New Jersey and First Massa- chusetts Cavalry." General Gregg says these two regiments lost 91 men in this engagement. Colonel John W. Kester, First New Jersey Cavalry, in his report, says: " When we arrived at a village called Tod's Tavern, we met the Third Cavalry Division, commanded by General Wil- son, rapidly retreating before the enemy's cavalry in a very disordered state. General Davies's Brigade was immediately thrown forward, and, having rapidly moved a half-mile, we Jo6 Bull Run to Bull Run. met the advance of the enemy's cavalry pressing forward on the rear of General Wilson. Captain Hart, with the first squadron, was ordered to charge, which he did with such impetuosity that the enemy in turn were routed, and the gallant first squadron pressed them back on their main body, until they in turn were met by the charge of a rebel regiment, which again turned the tide of battle. At this critical junc- ture, I hastened to his support with three squadrons of my regiment, the remaining two being sent on the flanks. Hastily forming these squadrons in line of battle, the whole line moved forward and gave the enemy such a sharp volley, fol- lowed by a rapid fire at will, that they desisted from their charge and endeavored to keep back the advancing line of my regiment, but without success. Forward we moved, as steadily as a parade, the rebels endeavoring to check us with showers of canister, but with no avail; and they hastily limbered up their guns and fell back, just in time to prevent their capture." The Laurel Brigade, in this the opening fight of the cam- paign, had covered itself with glory and well merited its laurels. The infantry of Lee's army was also engaged on the 5th, on our left, and the fight along the whole line was severe; the Confederate siile attacking and gradually gaining g^und. This was the opening of the grandest campaign of the war, auil iMie in which General Lee showed himself the foremost anil i?Teatost of the masters of war. On the Federal side iirani \vm\ an army of 1^^0,000. while the Confederate force under l.oe did not number over 50.000. During the cam- paiv^n General i."inint received reinforcements estimated at ux\ixx\ while Loo roooived not more than 10,000. The loss on I ho 1-Vdoral side from the Wilderness to the James was lar^olv in oxooss of Leo*s entire armv. But while there was i;roai disparity in loss, it was evident after a few days' fight- iuii that iho davs of the Confederacv were numbered. The tactics vM* iiranr were dirterent from those of any of his pre- docossors. At Spotsylvania and Malvern Hill, though he C. J. Manning'. 3o8 Bull Run to Bull Run, had siiflfered greater losses and was more completely repulsed than either McClellan, Burnside, or Hooker, he did not re- treat, but continued to hurl his broken columns against our impregnable lines, merely moving slowly by the left flank. Our losses in the various engagements were comparatively small, but our supplies were exhausted and recruits could not be obtained. Though the future looked gloomy and our de- struction seemed inevitable, the morale of our army was never better or its courage more pronounced. On the morning of the 6th, Rosser's Adjutant-General, Emmet, having been wounded on the preceding day, I was assigned to duty on his staff. General Stuart, with the rest of Hampton's Division, and the divisions of Fitz and W. H. F. Lee having joined us near Tod's Tavern, and Sheridan having concentrated his cavalry corps in the vicinity of the same place, the fight was renewed with great vigor, lasting all day, both sides fighting mostly on foot, and neither gain- ing a decisive advantage. In this day's engagement Company B lost Lieutenant Washington, Phil Terrill, and Bob Craighill wounded, anc^ the company now being without a commissioned officer, I was relieved from staff duty and returned to its command. General Sheridan, in his report at ii A. M. of the 6th, says: '' My cavalry has been engaged, and is now engaged, heavily at Tod's Tavern and on the Brock road in front of the Furnaces, three or four miles. It is reported that there is infantry in their front. There is no infantry on the Brock road. Everv attack made on the cavalrv so far has been hand- somely repulsed." But at 2 :20 P. M. he sends the following order to General Gregg : '' The General commanding directs that you fall back from your present position at Tod's Tavern and relieve General Wilson's Division, now occupying Piney Grove church and Alrich's." Bull Run to Bull Run. 20p During the day the infantry on our left was heavily en- gaged, and succeeded in turning General Hancock's left and throwing that wing of the Federal army into confusion. On the morning of the 7th our cavalry advanced and the fight was renewed with great vigor, and lasted until late in the afternoon, without decisive result, excepting the advance of our lines. There were several hand-to-hand conflicts during the day. Our brigade and the enemy's force in our front occupied elevations, with depressions between, about a half-mile apart, and the artillery on both sides were firing rapidly, when the enemy, moving two mounted regiments to their front, made a charge on our guns. General Rosser at once ordered a charge of White's Battalion, and the Twelfth Cavalry, and the opposite forces met midway between the lines, and a hand-to-hand conflict ensued and the enemy were repulsed. In this charge, George Crayton, of Company B, a most fearless soldier, meeting a brave Yankee, they slashed each other with the saber, then clinched and rolled to the ground. Crayton was as wiry and agile as he was brave, and,, landing his adversary beneath, compelled his surrender, and brought him off a prisoner. This is but one instance of many, for in this combat there were many deeds of daring on both sides. Probably in no encounter during the war was wit- nessed such a close conflict maintained for such a length of time. Colonel White and his battalion, who united with our regiment in this charge, were as brave as Leonidas and his band of patriots, always noted fighters, needing only the in- spiring words of their leader, "Come on, my Comanches," to follow that leader, even into the jaws of death. They did their part nobly. On the 8th, the Federal cavalry disappeared from our front and concentrated near Alrich's, on the Plank road to Frede- ricksburg, and on the day following started on^its raid on Richmond. General Stuart, with his cavalry corps, except- ing our brigade, started in pursuit. On the same day I was directed, with 20 men from Company B, to move down the 14 ^10 Bull Run to Bull Run. road l^eyond Tod's Tavern and ascertain the whereabouts of the enemy. Passing through a woods about two miles be- yond our i)icket line, we came in view of the enemy's breast- works, which appeared deserted, but as we neared them, a line of infantry pickets rose up and poured a volley into our squad, wounding two men. As our force was inadequate to attack, we hastily retreated to the cover of the woods, and halted to ascertain their strength and also to recover my hat, lost in wheeling about, when the enemy opened on our party. The hat had been sent me by some friends in Jefferson, and was ornamented with a fine black plume: I was not willing to relincjuish it without an effort to regain it. It lay about two hundred vards in front of the enemv's breastworks, and about twenty yards from the edge of the woods in which we had halted. Dismounting, I gave my horse in charge of one of our men, also my saber and pistol, and stealthily approaching the edge of the woods, made a dash for the hat, and, grabbing it up, ran back to the wood amid a shower of balls, none of which took effect. Moimting, I reported to camp with the information obtained. Grant was now moving rapidly towards Spotsylvania Courthouse, and our infantry, to confront him, moved speedily in the same direction, leaving our brigade to protect the left wing of our army. Sheridan, with his cavalry corps, continued his march towards Richmond, and on the nth. General Stuart confronted him with a portion of his corps at Yellow Tavern, about six miles from Richmond, where in a severe engagement our forces were repulsed, and General Stuart was mortally wounded, dying in Richmond on the fol- lowing day. He was a dashing, brave officer, who never failed to fight, no matter how great the odds against him. He had a genius for escaping with success from tight places. General Wade Hampton succeeded him as cavalry corps com- mander. Our brigade was for several days engaged in harassing the enemy's right. On the evening of the 14th we passed in rear Bull Run to Bull Run. 211 of Hancock's Corps, drove off the guards of the Fifth Army Corps Hospital, releasing our prisoners and captured many of the enemy, but leaving those badly wounded, with nurses, attendants, and surgeons. General Hancock, reporting this affair to General Meade, savs : " It is reliable that the Fifth Corps Hospital has been en- tered by the enemy. General Rosser is said to be in command of a brigade of cavalry. He left the men attendants, who had on badges, took away the rest, and all the rebels who could Avalk. There were 270 patients left." The brigade continued, from day to day, following up the enemy's move by the left flank, breaking the monotony now and then with a skirmish with the enemy's infantry, until the 28th, when Haws' Shop was reached, and a spirited contest ensued between two divisions of Sheridan's Corps and Ros- ser's and Butler's brigades of our cavalry. In the earlier part of the day, we drove the enemy's cavalry back on their infan- \ry, but late in the afternoon the enemy, being heavily rein- forced, regained a portion of the ground. General Grant, in his report of May 29th, says : ** Yesterday two divisions of our cavalry had a severe en- g-agement with the enemy south of Haws' Shop, driving them about a mile on what appears to be his new line. We will find out all about it to-day. Our loss in the cavalry engagement \vas 350 killed and wounded, of whom but 44 are ascertained to be killed." And General Sheridan, in his report, says: " I was immediately ordered to demonstrate in the direc- tion of Mechanicsville, in order to find out the enemy's vvhere- abouts, and therefore directed Gregg's Division to move out ma Haws' Shop, on the Mechanicsville road, but when about three-fourths of a mile in advance of Haws' Shop, it encoun- 212 Bull Run to Bull Run, terecl the enemy's cavalry, which was dismounted and behind a temporary breastwork of rails. Gregg" vigorously attacked this force, which appeared to be the rebel cavalry corps and a brigade of South Carolina troops, reported 4,000 strong, armed with long-range rifles and commanded by a Colonel But- ler. These Carolinians fought very gallantly in this their first fight, judging from the number of th^ir dead and wounded, and prisoners captured. The most determined efforts were made on both sides in this unequal contest, and neither would give way until late in the evening, when Custer's (Michigan) Brigade was dismounted, formed in close columns of attack, and charged with Gregg's Division, when the enemy was driven back, leaving all his dead and his line of temporary works in our possession. This was a hard-contested engage- ment, with heavy loss, for the number of troops engaged on both sides, and was fought almost immediately in front of the infantry of our army, which was busily occupied throwing up breastworks." General Sheridan has most justly accorded praise to our South Carolina comrades in this fight. They behaved like veterans, although receiving their " baptism of fire." It was during this engagement that our regiment was ordered to support our batteries on the left of our line, and while thus engaged, the fire of the enemy's guns became so hot that we were directed to dismount and hold our horses. Some of the men hugged their dear old mother earth, and seemed in- clined to rest within her bosom, to shield themselves from the bursting shell. Looking around at Company B, I saw John Wolfe lying in a little crevice in the ground, face downwards, apparently much alarmed. Just then a shell bursting in our front, its fragments scattered through the company, without damage, a piece landing near my feet. Picking up the frag- ment, I playfully cast it over on Wolfe. With a cry of anguish he leaped up, left his horse, ran back through the pines, and all my efforts to stop his retreat were futile. Yet Wolfe on the second day's fight in the Wilderness, in a charge on the Bull Run to Bull Run, 21^ enemy's breastworks, had acted with more than ordinary courage. It is very trying to stand under a severe fire, and still harder to retreat in order under it. I remember a gallant soldier in the company once telling me never to order him to retreat, as he could not retreat without disgracing himself. While our arms in this campaign had been crowned with success, we had to mourn the loss of our brave corps com- mander and many gallant comrades, but they had not lived or died in vain. Their noble example remained with us. CHAPTER XV. Let this truth suffice; The brave meets danger, and the coward flies: To die or conquer, proves a hero's heart; And know this, he knew a soldier's part. Without a sign, his sword the brave man draws, And asks no omen, but his country's cause. Homer. On the morning of the ist of June, having learned that the enemy's cavalry had passed through Hanover, moving in the direction of Ashland, General Rosser, with the Eleventh and Twelfth Cavalry moved off to learn the enemy's whereabouts. Striking the Ashland road about two miles east of the station, we discovered the enemy's tracks passing westward in the direction of the station. General Rosser, closing up the regi- ments, prepared for an attack. The Twelfth held the front, and received orders to move forward, charge the enemy as soon as they appeared in sight, and ride them down. Com- pany B was ordered to take the advance of the regiment with similar orders. Reaching a point about a mile from Ashland, we discovered the enemy, without rear-guard, with a regpi- ment of led horses, occupying the rear of the column, the men having gone forward. The task was an easy one. A charge was ordered, the company pushed forward, riding through a regiment of led horses, capturing a large number of prisoners and horses, and was soon so weighed down with booty that its effectiveness was destroyed. In this charge the enemy had been pressed forward to within half a mile of the station before our men received a check. This halt was for a few moments, when the Twelfth and Eleventh regiments coming up, the enemy again broke and was driven back within two hundred yards of the station. Here a lively contest ensued, which lasted for an hour or [214] 'Wm. F. Llaiuimg. 2i6 Bull Run to Bull Run, more. It seems that W. H. F. Lee's Division had commenced the attack in the enemy's front just prior to our arrival in the rear, and the enemy's movements and plans were made to meet this force and its rear left exposed. General Lee's forces now uniting- with ours, a determined assault was made on the enemy's position at Ashland, the enemy's lines \vere broken, and they were soon in rapid retreat, leaving their dead and wounded in our hands. In this engagement Billy Locke, a youthful member of Company B, was killed. He had just returned from a visit to his home, in Jeflferson, and that morning reported for duty. When Company B was ordered forward and the contest seemed near at hand, he rode to the front of the company, and requested to ride with the Orderly Sergeant and myself, say- ing he had a presentiment he would be killed in this fight, and wanted to die in the front rank. I made light of his pre- sentiment, but told him he could ride with us, if he desired it. When the enemy made its first stand, Locke was among the foremost, and fell, pierced through the breast by a ball. He was a gallant young soldier, and a favorite among- his comrades. General Lee, in his official report, says : *' Yesterday afternoon the enemy's cavalry were reported to be advancing by the left of our line toward Hanover Court- house and Ashland. General Hampton, with Rosser's Bri- gade, proceeded to meet them. Rosser fell upon their rear, and charged down the road toward Ashland, bearing- every- thing before him. His progress was arrested at Ashland by the intrenchments of the enemy, when he changed his direc- tion and advanced up the Fredericksburg railroad. General W. H. F. Lee came up at this time with a part of his division, and a joint attack was made. The enemy was quickly driven from the place and pursued towards Hanover Courthouse until dark." Bull Run to Bull Run, 2iy General Hampton, in a note to General Rosser, says : " General Lee directs me to acknowledge the receipt of your note of 5 130 A. M., and express his gratification at the handsome conduct of Rosser's command and his thanks for their having so gallantly defeated the enemy/' General Wilson reports to General Sheridan : '' Mcintosh is at Ashland, where he was attacked in the rear by a force from some unexpected quarter. He is now hotly engaged, and I am endeavoring to relieve him by send- ing troops to attack the enemy in the rear. I think we shall succeed, and return by the road from the bridge through Hanover Courthouse, or, possibly, across to Northside.'' In his postscript to his official report to General Meade, of date of June 2d, he shows how well he got off. '' I was compelled to leave 30 or 40 wounded at Ashland, two officers, for the lack of ambulances. Would it be proper to send a flag of truce, with a train of ambulances, for per- mission to bring them in? " While unable to fix the enemy's loss, I know it was large in killed and wounded; and a large number of prisoners and horses were captured. Our loss was small. On the 9th, General Hampton having received information that Sheridan was moving to the rear of our left flank, marched with Fitz Lee's and Butler's divisions to intercept him, and on the nth encountered his forces near Trevillian's Station. When the fight began, Rosser's Brigade was moving in the direction of Gordonsville, but, hearing firing in our rear, he hastily counter-marched in the direction of the battle- field. About a mile from Trevillian, the enemy (Custer's Brigade) w^as discovered charging across our roadway into the rear of the South Carolina Brigade. Rosser immediately ordered a charge, and with White's Battalion in front, bore down on Custer's line, splitting it in twain, routing them, recapturing our men and horses taken by them, and securing 2i8 Bull Run to Bull Run. a lar^e number of prisoners, six caissons and several ambu- lances. The fight continued without intermission all day, and that night we remained in line of battle. Early next morning the fight was renewed with great vigor, the enemy making repeated assaults on our line, all of which were hand- somely repulsed. Late in the afternoon our troops advanced all along the line, and the enemy were driven back in rout and confusion, and only night saved him from signal defeat. Pre- parations were made for a renewal of the attack in the morn- ing, but during the night the enemy disappeared from our front, and got several hours' start of our troops. In the morning our forces pursued and captured many prisoners along the line of retreat. General Hampton, in his official report, says: "At daylight my division was ready to attack at Trevillian's, Butler's and Young's brigades being held for that purpose, while Rosser was sent to cover a road on my left. Soon after these dispositions were made. General Lee sent to inform me that he was moving out to attack. Butler was immediately advanced, and soon met the enemy, whom he drove hand- somely, until he was heavily reinforced and took position behind works. Young's Brigade was sent to reinforce Butler, and these two brigades pushed the enemy steadily back, and I hoped to efi^ect a junction with Lee's Division at Clayton's Store in a short time; but while we were driving the enemy in front, it was rei)orted to me that a force had appeared in my rear. Upon investigation, I found this report correct. The brigade which had been engaging General Lee, having with- drawn from his front, i)assed his left and got in my rear. This forced nie to withdraw in front and take up a new line. This was soon done, and the brigade (Custer's which had attacked me in my rear was severely punished, for I recalled Rosser's Brigade, which charged them in front, driving them back against General Lee, who was moving up to Trevillian, and captured many prisoners. In this sudden attack in my rear Bull Run to Bull Run. 2ig the enemy captured some of my led horses, a few ambulances and wagons, and three caissons. These were ail recaptured by Generals Ro§ser and Lee, the latter taking, in. addition, four caissons and the headquarter wagon of Brigadier-Gen- eral Custer. My new line being established, I directed Gen- eral Lee to join me with his command as soon as possible. The enemy tried to dislodge me from my new position, but failed, and the relative positions of the opposing forces re- mained the same during the night.'' The next day at 12 M., General Lee reported to me, and his division was placed so as to support mine, in case the enemy attacked. At 3 130 P. M. a heavy attack was made on my left, where Butlers Brigade was posted. Being re- pulsed, the enemy made a succession of determined assaults, which were all handsomely repulsed. In the mean time, Gen- eral Lee had, by my directions, reinforced Butler's left with Wickham's Brigade, while he took Lomax's Brigade across to Gordonsville road, so as to strike the enemy on his right flank. This movement was successful, and the enemy, who had been heavily punished in front, when attacked on his flank, fell back in confusion, leaving his dead and a portion of his wounded on the field. I immediately gave orders to follow him up, but it was daylight before these orders could be carried out, the fight not having ended until 10 P. M. In this interval the enemy had withdrawn entirely, leaving his dead scattered over the whole field, with about 125 wounded on the ground and in temporary hospitals. We captured, in addition to the wounded, in the fight and the pursuit 570 prisoners. My loss in my own division was 59 killed, 258 wounded, and 295 missing." General R. E. Lee writes General Hampton : *' General, your note of to-day from Phillips's house has just been received. I am rejoiced at your success. I thank you and the officers and men of your command for the gallantry and determination with which they have assaulted Sheridan's forces and caused his expedition to end in defeat." 220 Bull Run to Bull Run. General Sheridan, in his official report of this engagement, savs : " On the morning of the nth, General Torbert, with his division and Colonel Gregg's Brigade of General Greggs Division, attacked the enemy. After an obstinate contest, drove him from successive lines of breastworks, through an almost impenetrable forest, back on Trevillian's Station. In the mean time. General Custer was ordered with his brigade to proceed by a country road so as to reach the station in rear of the enemy's column. On his arrival at this point the enemy broke into a complete rout, leaving his dead and nearly all his wounded in our hands; also, 20 officers, 500 men, and 300 horses.'' • On the i2th he savs: *' I directed General Torbert to advance with his division and General Davies's Brigade of General Gregg's Division in the direction of Gordonsville and attack the enemv, who had concentrated and been reinforced by infantry during the night, and had also constructed rifle- pits at a point about five miles from Gordonsville. The ad- vance was made, but as the enemy's position was found too strong to assault, no general attack was made. On the extreme right of our lines a portion of the Reserve Brigade carried the enemy's works twice, and was twice driven there- from by infantry. Night closed the contest. I regret my inabilitv to carrv out vour instructions." " The cavalry engagement of the 12th was by far the most brilliant one of the present campaign. The enemy's loss was very heavy. They lost the following-named officers in killed and wounded : Colonel McAllister, commanding regiment, killed; Brigadier-General Rosser, commanding brigade, wounded: Colonel Aiken, commanding regiment, wounded; Colonel Custer, commanding regiment, wound-ed. My loss in killed and wounded will be about 575. I captured and have now with me 370 prisoners of war, including 20 commissioned officers. My loss in captured will not exceed 160. These Frank J. Manning. 222 Bull Run to Bull Run. were principally of the Fifth Michigan Cavalry. This regi- ment gallantly charged down the Gordonsville road, captur- ing 500 horses and 800 men, but was finally surrounded, and had to give them up." General Torbert, in his official report, says : " In approaching the station, General Custer found the enemy's led horses, trains and caissons retreating rapidly in the direction of Gordonsville and Charlottesville, and he im- mediately ordered the Fifth Michigan Cavalry, Colonel Alger, to pursue, which they did in a very gallant manner, capturing about 1,500 horses, six caissons, and a number of wagons. The regiment was soon divided into small parties, taking care of the captured pro])erty, and the enemy sent a still stronger force after them. They were obliged to relinquish their cap- tives, and get back the best \vay they could, and the greater part of this regiment came in. Then Colonel Alger, with a few men, gallantly cut their w^ay through a column of the enemy to our lines that afternoon. General Custer reached the station about the time the enemy were driven in such a confused mass from the front of General Merritt and Colonel Davies, so the enemy in a disorganized mass passed through some intervals in his line, passing to his rear, carried off his pack trains, headquarters w^agon, and five caissons." Pretty good zcork for a disorganized mass. General Torbert reports his loss at 62 oflficers and 1,186 men, yet Sheridan only reports his in his tw^o divisions at 1,007. Colonel Alger, of the Fifth Michigan Cavalry, an officer very actively and prominently engaged in this fight, in his report gives a very graphic account of his part of the engage- ment. He says : " The regiment was immediately closed up, and, chargfing down the Gordonsville road, the enemy was found in force. After a desperate resistance for a moment, he was routed, and the fight became a running one, and was kept up for a distance of four miles. In this charge 800 prisoners, i,5CX) Bull Run to Bull Run, 22j horses, one stand of colors, six caissons, 40 ambulances, and 50 army wagons were captured and men left guarding them. Many prisoners broke their arms upon surrendering. In this charge I was accompanied by Captain Brewster, Commissary of Subsistence, and Lieutenant Stranaham, Aide-de-Camp of General Custer's staff, the latter of whom was sent back with information for the General as soon as the enemy was routed. After charging about three miles, Captain Brewster was sent back to ask for support and soon returned to me, reporting the enemy in heavy force between us and the brigade; also, that they were attacking my men who had been left guarding prisoners and horses. Moving back rapidly, I came upon the enemy in large force, who had come in upon my right (Rosser's Brigade), attacked and and captured many of my men, and were engaging the brigade in front. I also dis- covered from the firing that the brigade was attacked in the rear and its left. Having but 40 men with Captains Magoffin, Judson, Hastings, and Rolls, and Lieutenant Stafford, acting adjutant, and Lieutenant Lonsbury, I moved to my then right and entered a narrovv' strip of woods. Here the enemy were moving on each side of and very near us. A rebel officer seeing us, rode into the woods and asked, ' What command do you belong to? ' Captain Judson answered, ' Hampton's.' *A11 right,' was the reply, and he joined his column. We were, however, soon discovered and attacked, when we moved off in the direction of Louisa Courthouse, where we encountered a column of the enemy, which we charged through, leaving 28 men in the woods, cut off from us. Pass- ing near the Courthouse, we came into our hues, near the place where we encamped the night before, travelling a dis- tance of over twenty miles." In the afternoon of the first day's fight. General Rosser sent for Company B to charge a battery of the enemy that was enfilading our position, and, reporting to him he led us through a strip of woods in front of our lines, and as we debouched into the open ground preparatory to the charge. 224 ^"/^ ^"'^^ ^0 Bull Run. General Rosser was wounded in the knee, and we were ordered back, much to our gratification, as the work ahead appeared to me a task of no easy accomplishment. In this engagement the forces were nearly equal, the enemy being somewhat the stronger. Sheridan had Torbert's and Gregg's divisions, Merritt's Brigade, and the Sixth United States Cavalry and Artillery, five brigades of cavalry — 25 regiments; while Hampton had two divisions, his own and Fitz Lee's, comprising 15 regiments, three legions, and one battalion, with artillery. We had no infantry, as Sheridan reports, and after two days' hard fighting Sheridan was repulsed, and. forced to retreat, acknowledging in his report to General Grant his inability to carry out his instructions. On the morning of the 13th, our brigade moved in pursuit of Sheridan's retreating forces, taking along the route many prisoners, whose horses had become too feeble and jaded to keep pace with Sheridan's rapid march. The enemy finally found shelter under the gunboats at the White House, and Hampton moved near Charles City Courthouse, and took up position to await Sheridan's further movements. On the 24th, our pickets were driven in at St. Mary's Church, and the enemy advanced to Nance's Shop. Here the' fight began and soon became general, our forces attacking in front and flank. The Twelfth Regiment was with our column in front. After driving the enemy slowly a consider- able distance, the Phillips and Jefif. Davis legions (mounted), with the Twelfth, were ordered to charge, which was accord- ingly done with much vigor, driving the enemy in confusion several miles, capturing many prisoners and horses. In this charge Colonel Massie, of our regiment, was wounded, and a spent ball struck me in the breast, imbedding itself in -my flesh. I was wearing at the time in my shirt bosom a badge of the Union Philosophical Society of Dickinson College (of which I was a member for three years prior to the war), and which was formed of a Maltese cross, surmounted with a shield. The force of the bullet tore of? the shield, leaving Bull Run to Bull Run. 22^ the cross in a distorted shape. Imagination often plays havoc with the truth. I thought my time had come, and felt day- light passing through me, the blood trickling down inter- nally, and I gasping for breath. John Terrill, who was near me, seeing my pallor and eccentric actions, presumed I was . wounded mortally, led my horse back over a little declivity,. out of danger of flying missiles, and, pulling open my jacket and shirt, exultantly exclaimed, " Lieutenant, you are not much hurt, the ball hasn't gone in,'' and, taking hold of it with his fingers, he pulled it out and held it up to view. My spirits revived immediately, blood ceased to trickle, internal daylight disappeared, I breathed freely, vigor and strength returned, and, gathering up my reins, I was soon back in the fight. The enemy was routed and pressed back to within a short distance of Charles City Courthouse, when night put an end to our pursuit. We captured 157 prisoners, including one colonel and 12 other commissioned officers. The enemy's dead and wounded in considerable number fell into our hands. General Hampton, in his official report, says : '* The next morning, June 24th, he drove in my picket at St. Mary's Church, and advanced beyond Nance's Shop. I determined to attack him, and to this end I ordered Brigadier- General Gary, who joined me that morning, to move from Salem Church aroujid to Smith's Store, and to attack on the flank as soon as the attack in front commenced. General Lee left Lomax to hold the River road and brought Wickham to join in the attack. The necessary arrangements having been made. General Gary advanced from Smith's Store, and took position near Nance's Shop. The enemy had in the mean time thrown up strong works along his whole line, and his position was a strong one. As soon as Gary had engaged the enemy, Chambliss was thrown forward, and by a move- ment handsomely executed connected with him, and the two brigades were thrown on the flank of the enemy. At the same moment, the whole line, under the immediate command of Major-General Fitzhugh Lee, charged the works of the 15 226 Bull Run to Bull Run. enemy, who, after fighting stubbornly for a short time, gave way, leaving his dead and wounded on the field. This ad- vance of our troops was made in the face of a very heavy fire of artillery and musketry, and it was most handsomely accomplished. As soon as the enemy gave way I brought up the Phillips and JefT. Davis legions (mounted), ordering them to charge. This they did most gallantly, driving the enemv for three miles in confusion. Robins's Battalion and the Twelfth Virginia Cavalry were mounted and participated in a part of this charge, in which Lieutenant-Colonel Massie, commanding the latter, was wounded while gallantly leading his men over the works of the enemy. The enemy was com- pletely routed, and was pursued to within two and one-half miles of Charles City Courthouse, the pursuit lasting till 10 o'clock at night. My loss was six killed and 59 wounded in my own division." General Sheridan, in his report, says: **At St. Mary's church, Gregg was attacked by the entire cavalry corps of the enemy, and after a stubborn fight, which lasted until after dark, was forced to retire in some confusion, but without any loss in material. This very creditable engage- ment saved the train, w^hich should never have been left for the cavalrv' to escort." General Gregg says : " On the 23d the division, acting as escort to a large wagon-train belonging to the corps and other troops, crossed the Chickahoniiny at Jones Bridge. On the 24th, in com- ])liance with orders of the ]\Iajor-General commanding the C()r])s, the Second Division moved from its camp to St. Mary's Church, and there took ])osition. When within a mile of the church the advance of the Second Brigade found a small mounted force of the enemy. This was driven away and the lines of the division established. The batteries of the division were ])lace(l in commanding ])ositions. During the morning and until after 3 P. M. there was irregular skirmishing at differ- Wm. S. Maaon. 228 Bull Run to Bull Run. ent points of our line. A large force of the enemy was known to have passed St. Mary's Church, moving in the direction of HaxalTs, on the evening before. Having received informa- tion from the Major-General commanding that circumstances compelled an alteration of the dispositions previously ordered of the troops under his command, this alteration placing the Second Division beyond any immediate support, every dis- position was made to resist an attack of the enemy should it be made. Between 3 and 4 P. M. the enemy made an attack in great force on the Second Brigade, occupying the right of our line. The attack there begun extended along the front of the First Brigade on the left. It was very soon evident that the force of the enemy was largely superior to ours, and that they were supported by infantry, but, nothing daunted by the dispJajf-M strong lines of an over-confident enemy, our men fell up6j|^;ihem and held them in check. The strife was earnest n6%%^^^rt were no disengaged- men on our side. Randal's a^pfi^TDennison's Batteries pitched load after load of canister \x^ the staggering lines of the enemy. After about two hours,;.4|a which this contest was so heroicallv maintained by our mi^Cit' became evident that the contest was too un- equal to Aiaintain longer. The led horses, the wounded, for whom th^e was transportation, and caissons, were started on the road leading to Charles City Courthouse, eight miles distant. These fairly under way, the division began to retire by the right. Our men continued fighting on foot, but were mounted from time to time. The movement toward Charles City Courthouse was made in the best possible order, and without confusion or disorder. The enemy pressed hard on the rear of the command, but without advantage. A final stand made by mounted regiments at Hopewell church on open ground determined the enemy to make no further advance. For want of sufficient ambulances some of our wounded fell into the hands of the enemy. The division reached Charles City Courthouse about 8 P. M., and there encamped near the First Division. The aggregate loss of the Bull Run to Bull Run. 22p division in this eng-agement was 357 commissioned officers and enlisted men, killed, wounded, and missing." General Meade, in his report of this affair, says : " Hampton fell on Gregg, handling him severely, but he was finally driven off, and the command reached the James/' This engagement reflects much credit on General Gregg and but little on our commanders. Our forces largely out- numbered the enemy, and with proper management ought to have taken the enemy's artillery, routed his force and attacked his wagon-train, before any reinforcement could have reached him. I have always regarded this the best fight made by Gregg's Division, of which I had any personal experience and observation, during the war. CHAPTER XVI. Our bugles sang truce, for the night cloud had lowered. And the sentinel stars set their watch in the sky. And thousands had sunk on the ground overpowered. The weary to sleep and the wounded to die. CamphelL After the fight at Charles City Courthouse, our division, under Hampton, crossed to the south side of the James on the pontoon bridge, passed through Petersburg, and on the evening of the 28th reached Sappony Church, about ten miles south of Reams Station, and prepared to resist the return of Wilson's and Kautz's Divisions of Cavalry from their foray through Southern Virginia, crippling our railroads, and de- vastating the country. We had not long been in position be- fore we were aroused by the rattle of the carbines. Skirmish- ing was kept up until nearly daylight, when our dismounted men advanced, our regiment, in conjunction with other troops, charged, and the enemy were broken and scattered. I was ordered with our company to pursue a squad of some one hundred men who were retreating, but fighting as they retired. As the country was thickly wooded and our com- pany mounted, the enemy had a decided advantage. Seizing a favorable opportunity, as the enemy entered an open wood, a charge was made and the greater portion of the squad cap- tured. In this charge my horse, Bonaparte, a noble animal, my companion in many scenes of danger, was mortally wounded and died the next morning. Dear Bony! How many sad memories cluster around you. You had borne my father, when he received his wound at McGaheysviile. You were the companion of my I)rother until his life-blood was shed at Parker's Store, and now the fatal blow has fallen on you. If beyond this vale there are pleasant fields and never- failing streams for the faithful friend and companion of man, [230] Bull Run to Bull Run, 231 I feel assured, noble steed, thou art feeding there. The lords of creation can bow to thee! All thy years were spent for others, and thy duty was discharged with fidelity and cheer- fulness. Mankind may imitate thee and desire no greater boon than to deserve the praise that is thy due. Mounting a flea-bitten grey, captured from the enemy, the pursuit was continued, and many prisoners taken. After Wilson and Kautz retired from our front, they retreated rapidly in the direction of Reams Station, expecting to pass through our line at that point, but Mahone's Division of Infantry and Fitz Lee's Cavalry met them there, and after a short combat they abandoned artillery, wagons and ambulances, took to the woods, many during the night following making their way safely through our lines. In this engagement we cap- tured 1,000 prisoners, 16 guns and caissons, 50 wagons, and 40 ambulances. General Hampton, in his official report of this battle, says : " The position of the enemy, who had two lines of works, was so strong that I could not attack it in front, so at day- light I threw portions of Butler's and Rosser's brigades, under the immediate direction of General Butler on the left flank of the enemy. At the same moment Chambliss advanced the whole front line, and in a few moments we were in pos- session of both lines of works, the enemy retreating in con- fusion and leaving their dead and wounded on the ground.'' .General Lee reports: " In the various conflicts with the enemy's cavalry in their late expedition against the railroad, besides their killed and wounded left on the field, over 1,000 prisoners, 13 pieces of artillery, 30 wagons and ambulances, many small-arms, horses and ordnance stores, and several hundred negroes taken from the plantations on their route, were captured." General Wilson, in his official report, says: " The loss sustained by the entire command was about 900 men killed, wounded, and missing. Twelve field-guns, four 2^2 Bull Run to Bull Run. mountain Howitzers, and 30 wagons and ambulances were abandoned and fell into the enemy's hands." General Hampton places his loss at two killed, 18 wounded and two missing. This fight virtually ended the cavalry cam- paign, for Sheridan was so crippled that he was unable to muster force sufficient to make a move of any importance, retired behind Grant's infantry, and went into innocuous desuetude. In his report, Sheridan says : " I think my casualties from May 5th to August ist will number between 5,000 and 6,000, and that the capture in prisoners will exceed 2,000." On July 3d, in reply to an inquiry from General Grant, he says: " General Wilson is here reorganizing his command. I shall commence at once to refit and put my command in con- dition. I wish all dismounted men of the cavalry corps now with the trains and otherwise connected with the army ordered to report to Major Beaumont at this point without delay. In reference to the condition of the command, I have to report it unfit for service at the present time." General Ingalls writes General Meigs: *' General Gregg has 700 dismounted men here, and wants that number of cavalry horses at once. He has 900 dis- mounted men in Washington, and he would like to have them mounted and sent back. General Grant has sent orders to General Ilalleck on the subject. I have not heard from Kautz, but presume he will require 1,400; 500 have been received and issued to Kautz." General Hampton, in his report of July loth, says: " The pursuit of the enemy, which ended near Peter's Bridge, closed the active operations which began on the 8th of June, when the movement against Sheridan commenced. Jno. McCluer. 2S4 Bull Run to Bull Run. During that time (a period of twenty-two days) the com- mand had no rest, was badiy suppHed with rations and forage, marched upwards of 400 miles, fought the greater portion of six days and one entire night, captured upwards of 2,000 prisoners, many guns, small-arms, wagons, horses and material of war, and was completely successful in defeating two of the most formidable and well-organized expeditions of the enemy. This was accomplished at a cost in my division of 719 killed, wounded and missing, including 21 casualties in Chew's Battery (horse artillery), not mentioned in my pre- vious reports. These men have borne their privations with perfect cheerfulness: they have fought admirably, and I wish to express before closing my report not only my thanks to them for their good conduct, but my pride at having the honor to command them.'' During the first part of August, Hampton's Division remained on the right of Lee's army and in the neighborhood of Reams Station. There was little movement of the enemy, and we were passive, except that now and then a midnight incursion was made into some farmer's patch of watermelons, a fruit which was grown extensively in this section, and of most delicious flavor. I recall one incident of- this camp. Two rather juvenile members of Company B, messmates of mine — Frank, about fifteen, and Willie, about sixteen — went out one night on a foraging expedition, and returned about 2 P. M. loaded down with a big watermelon, surreptitiously acquired. I was awakened from sleep to partake of the luscious fruit, and was told of their thrilling venture with the guards, who had fired on them and chased them from the 'field, and how they had tenaciously held on to their prize. '' Men do not despise a thief, if he steal to satisfy his soul when he is hungry." I was only a surface reader of Scripture, and thought this answered our case; so we gathered about our spoil in eager anticipation of a royal feast, for a Johnnie's appetite, like death, has all seasons" for its own. But what was our chagrin and disappointment, when we laid open our Bull Run to Bull Run, 255 melon to find it so green we could not eat it. " Stolen waters are sweet," but on this occasion the words did not apply. These boys were not raised in a watermelon country, were ignorant of the art of distinguishing between a ripe and an unripe melon, and so their toil and trouble was thrown away, and we were forced to retire that night with whetted appetites unappeased. The division obtained here a much needed rest after its arduous campaign. On the morning of the 23d, silence was again broken, Gregg's and Kautz's divisions of cavalry advanced the enemy's line, took possession of Reams Station, and, pushing forward a cavalry force about two miles west of the station, encountered our . brigade. A portion of the Twelfth Cavalry was dismounted and thrown forward in skirmish line. Company B, not carrying any long-range guns, generously offered to borrow from other companies of the regiment and take their places in the skirmish line, and I was assigned the charge of these men. Our force steadily advanced, driving the enemy before them, until an open field was reached, when a squadron of the enemy's cavalry charged through our skirmish line, but were soon repulsed and driven back by our reserve. As the enemy passed through our line, I struck one of their men over the head with my saber, but failed to do more than arouse his anger. Turning on me, he was in the act of trying his weapon upon me, when one of our men, perceiving my critical situa- tion, shot and killed him, much to my relief and gratification. After this little episode, our skirmish line was still further advanced, driving the enemy from an elevation a short dis- tance from Reams Station. At this point the enemy made a determined stand, and though the fight was continued until dark, we failed to break their line. In this engagement, Frank Manning, then about fifteen years old, and possibly the youngest member of Company B, was shot through the breast and carried of? the field. Though young, slight, and delicate, he was a gallant soldier. The 28th was spent in skirmishing 2^6 Bull Rim to Bull Run, with the enemy without result, as it had been reinforced with Hancock's corps of infantry and artillery. That night, General A. P. Hill came to our support with three brigades of his corps — Cook's and McRae's brigades of North Caro- linians, under General Heth, and General Lane's Brigade, with Pegram's Artiller}'. Arrangements wxre made at once to attack the enemy, and about 9 A. M. on the 25th, the ball was opened and the enemy forced back to their intrenchments at Reams Station, leaving their dead and wounded in our hands. General Hill now disposed his forces to assault the enemy's works at the station. The infantry was placed on our left, and the cavalry dismounted on the right, connecting with the infantry. Our artillery opened a vigorous fire on the breastworks, which was continued for about fifteen minutes and then ceased, and our whole line moved rapidly forward on the enemy's intrenchments. This was the most animated charge of footmen witnessed by me during the war, and was due, in my judgment, in great measure to the rivalry existing between cavalry and infantry. Opportunity was here afforded of fairly testing the merits and valor of the respective arms of the service in an equal field. Company B was armed alone with pistols and sabers, and these were valueless at long range. As soon, therefore, as the command was given, the rush for the intrenchments was made. The cnemv fired one voUev as we started, but before they could reload, our line was over the breast- works, and the enemv in rout and confusion. Many laid down in the trenches and surrendered. Pressing on, the enemy's artillery was soon in our possession, and the disor- ganization so complete, a rally seemed impossible. When the superior number of the enemy and their intrenched posi- tion is considered, this was one of the most brilliant victories of the war, and reflects great credit on Generals Hill and Hampton and the men under their command. The victor}- was decisive. Nine of the enemy's guns were captured and turned on the fleeing columns. Our captures, as given by Bull Run to Bull Run. 2^/ General Hill in his official report, were : " Twelve stand of colors, nine pieces of artillery, 10 caissons, 2,150 prisoners, 3,100 small-arms, 32 horses; my own loss (cavalry, artillery and infant r}^) b^ing 720." The Federal return of casualties in this engagement is 2,724. Night put an end to our pursuit, and the cavalry bivouacked on the battle-field. On the fol- lowing morning, I was directed with Company B to follow up the retreating column of the enemy. In the pursuit a great many stragglers were taken. About two miles from the battle-field we encountered a strong force of the enemy, and in a skirmish with it, Robert Castleman was wounded in the shoulder. In the charge the evening before, Company B had only one man wounded, John Coleman. General Hill, after the fight, returned with the infantry and Pegram's Artil- lery to his position in the lines around Petersburg, and our cavalry remained in possession of the field and buried the dead of both sides. General Gregg had asked permission to enter our lines for that purpose, but the request was refused, with the information that our men were engaged in that duty. General Meade, in a letter to General Hancock, very kindly tries to soothe his wounded spirits. He says: " I am satisfied you and your command have done all in your power, and though you have met with a reverse, the honor and escutcheons of the old Second are as bright as ever, and will on some future occasion prove it is only where enormous odds are brought against them, they can be moved. Don't let this matter worry you, because you have given me every satisfaction." When the numbers of the opposing forces are compared, the Federal superiority can readily be seen. General Hill had the brigades of Cooke, JMcRae, and Lane, Pegram's Artillery, and the cavalry divisions of Hampton and Barringer, num- bering about 8,000 men, while General Hancock had the Second Corps, Miles's and Gibbons's divisions (50 regiments), with Wilcox's Division in reserve, and Gregg's and Kautz's 2^8 Bull Run to Bull Run. divisions of cavalry, a force fully double that of Hill, with the advantage of position and breastworks. General Meade says Hancock had 16,000 to 20,000 men. General Hancock does not say he was outnumbered, but places the blame of his defeat upon the bad conduct of his troops. After Miles's Division was thrown into disorder, Hancock says in his report : ** I immediately ordered General Gibbons's Division forward to retake the position and guns, but the order was responded to very feebly by his troops, the men falling back to their breastworks on receiving a slight fire from the enemy," and concludes his report by saying: " Had my troops behaved as well as heretofore, I would have been able to defeat the enemv on this occasion. A force sent down the railroad to attack the enemy in flank would have accom- plished the same end, or a small reserve in the field about 6 P. M. I attribute the bad conduct of my troops to their great fatigue, owing to the heavy labor exacted of them, and to their enormous losses during the campaign, especially in offi- cers. The lack of the corps in this respect is painfully great, and hardly to be remedied during active operations. The Seventh, Fifty-second, and Thirty-ninth New York are largely made up of recruits and substitutes. The fiirst-named regiment in particular is entirely new, companies being formed in New York and sent down here, some officers being unable to speak English. The material compares very un- favorablv with the veterans absent." General Miles, conmianding the First Division of the Second Corps, in his report, says : ^ **At 5 P. M. the enemy drove in the skirmishers of the con- solidated brigade, who made feeble resistance; debouched from the wood in front of that and the Fourth Brigade, ad- vancing through the slashings, which was thirty yards wide. At first he was met by a sharp fire from these brigades, part of the First Brigade, which fired to the left oblique, and the Fourth Xew York Artillery to the right oblique. Although CbarleB Broadway Bouae. s^io Bull Ru:i to Bull Run, he pushed forward with determination, he was repulsed at several points, and his organization greatly broken up by the severity of the fire and the obstacles in his front; but, unfor- tunately, just as his entire repulse seemed certain, a portion of the consolidated brigade, consisting of the Seventh, Fifty- second, and Thirty-ninth New^ York regiments, broke and fell into confusion. At the same time a break occurred in the right of the same brigade — the One Hundred and Twenty- fifth and the One Hundred and Twentv-sixth New York regiments. I stood at the time on the banks of the railroad cut and saw a rebel color-bearer spring over our works and down into the cut almost at my feet. But few of the enemy had reached the work, and a determined resistance of five minutes would have given us the victory. I looked for Lieu- tenant-Colonel Rugg, but not at the moment seeing him, I directed his brigade to rush into the gap and commence firing. Not a minute's time was lost Tbrfore giving this order, but instead of executing it, t^jj^ either lay on their faces or got up and ran to the. rear. I then rode down the line of the Fourth Brigade,^ ordering it to. move toward the right and hold the rifle-pit. ^fThese. troops were then fighting gallantly, their brigade cG^mmander, Lieutenant-Colonel Broady, being conspicuous, *entouraging ^nd directing the men. Finding the enemy had gained the angle and flanked my line, I rode to the Twelfth New York Battery, and directed Lieutenant Dandy to fire canister at that point, which he did with great effect, working his guns gallantly until the enemy was upon him. His horses were killed, and it was impossible to limber up and draw off his guns on the breaking of the line. The enemy pushed forward, and, taking posses- sion of them, turned one of them and opened fire with it upon our troops. The One Hundred and Fifty-second N^w York Regiment, Captain Bent commanding, when the assault was made, was directed to attack the enemy in flank and rear. The regiment had changed front, was moved up to within two hundred yards, and directed to open fire. Captain Martin, Bull Run to Bull Run. 241 division inspector, a very cool and reliable officer, reports that not a shot was fired at it, but the men broke from the ranks and fled in a disgraceful manner, only two men in the regi- ment discharging their pieces. The panic had become some- what general, and it was with the greatest difficulty that my line could be formed.'^ General Gibbons, commanding the Second Division of Hancock's Corps, in his official report, says : "About 5 P. M., the enemy having placed his batteries, opened a heavy fire, most of which took my part of the line in reverse. Soon afterwards he made his assault on General Miies's line, from which a portion of the First Brigade had been withdrawn to strengthen mine, under the impression that an attack was to be made there. The enemy broke through General Miles's line, and, pushing forward his troops, appeared to be for a time carrying everything before him. His fire taking my line in reverse, I shifted my men to the opposite side of the parapets to resist his farther advance, but there was checked by the steadiness of a portion of Miles's Division, and my division was then ordered forward by Gen- eral Hancock to attack the enemy and retake the breastworks. In the attempt to obey this order, that portion of the division with me did not sustain its previous reputation, and demoral- ized, partly by the shelling and musketry firing in its rear, and partly by the refugees from other parts of the line, retired after a very feeble effort and under a very slight fire in great confusion, and every effort of myself and staff failing to arrest the rout until the breastwork was reached. Soon after this, the enemy attacked my line, the men again shifting to the inside of the parapet. Besides the fire from the front, which, however, was very feeble, they were subjected to a heavy artillery and musketry fire from the right flank, when the enemy turned our own guns upon us. The men soon gave way in great confusion, and gave up the breastworks almost without resistance, and were partially rallied in the woods behind the right wing. The result of this action was a source 16 242 Bull Run to Bull Run. of great mortification to me, as I am confident but for the bad conduct of my division the battle would have terminated in our favor, even after the enemy had broken through General Miles's line." General Lee, in his report to the Secretary of War, says : " General A. P. Hill attacked the enemy in his intrench- ments at Reams Station yesterday evening, and at the second assault carried his entire line. Cooke's and McRae's North Carolina brigades, under General Heth, and Lane's North Carolina Brigade of Wilcox's Division, under General Con- ner, with Pegram's Artillery, composed the assaulting column. One line of breastworks was carried by the cavalry under General Hampton with great gallantry, who con- tributed largely to the success of the day. The loss of the enemy in killed and wounded is reported to be heavy, ours relatively small. Our profound gratitude is due to the Giver of all Victory, and our thanks to the brave men and officers engaged." And General Lee, in his letter to General Hampton, of date August 26, 1864, says: '' I am very much gratified with the success of yesterday's operations. The conduct of the cavalry is worthy of all praise." On August 26, 1864, General Meade reports to General Grant : " Hancock's troops were withdrawn without molestation, or being followed. He is now near the Williams house. He reports his command at present unserviceable. A report from General Gregg, on Warren's left and Hancock's lear, reports the enemy pressing his pickets a little this morning, with a view, he thinks, of picking up stragglers." General Hancock, in his report to General Grant on Bull Run to Bull Run, 24^ August 26, 1864, at 10 P. M., after giving an account of his repulse and his loss, says : " It is acknowledged to have been one of the most deter- mined and desperate fights of the war, resembling Spotsyl- vania in its character, though the number engaged gives it less importance.'^ Our brigade remained quiet after the Reams Station fight until September 14th, when it received orders to move down to Wilkinson Bridge, where General Hampton, with his own and General W. H. F. Lee's divisions, encamped for the night. The command resumed its march on the 15th, and reached Cooke's Bridge, on the Blackwater, where horses were fed, and we rested until the bridge, which had been de- stroyed, was repaired. Just after midnight we moved oflf, our brigade separating from the rest of the command, follow- ing byroads in the direction of Sycamore Church, where the enemy was encountered about 5 A. M., behind barricades and armed with the Winchester repeating rifle. Company B had the front. A charge of the Twelfth Virginia was ordered, and gallantly executed. The enemy fought stubbornly for a short time, but finally broke and fled in confusion, leaving his dead and wounded on the field and his camp in our hands. Having routed the enemy, our brigade pressed on to its cattle corral near by and captured the whole herd of beef cattle, numbering 2,486. This, the object of our expedition, being accomplished, and our litle force being far in General Grant's rear, we began our retreat, driving before us this immense herd. . In our brigade were quite a number of cow- boys, not of the Texas or Western sort, but real Virginia cow- boys, who knew the habits and dispositions of cattle, and these managed this large drove with skill and dexterity. The rest bf our forces under General Hampton soon united with us, and the Blackwater was safely reached and disposition made to protect our rear and save our rich booty. At Ebenezer, the enemy's cavalry made an attack on our brigade. 244 ^'''' ^"" to ^^^'^ Run. which \vas soon repulsed. While we were fighting, the cattle and other booty was hurried towards our lines, which they reached in safety, and our command, after several skirmishes, followed and returned to its camp. On this expedition our cavalry captured, besides the 2,486 beef cattle, 304 prisoners, a large number of horses, arms and equipments, and two wagons, and brought them in safety to our lines. Three camps of the enemy were burned and valuable stores and blankets secured. Our loss was 10 killed, 47 wounded and four missing. In the fight at Sycamore Church, Company B lost Richard Timberlake, a gallant soldier from Warren county, killed, and Isaac Strider, from Jefiferson, slightly wounded. A laughable story is told in connection with Strider's wound. After the enemy was routed at the church and the boys had plundered the camp, John Terrill, in riding over the field, found Ike lying on the ground apparently in the agonies of death, and, quickly dis- mounting, raised his head and offered him a drink from a canteen of whiskey he had captured, thinking it would possi- bly revive him. But Ike, with a groan, pushed away the canteen, saying in tones scarcely audible, *' John, I am too far gone for that." Just then John Howell rode up, and, see- ing Ike in a prostrate condition, also dismounted, and after a little parley, began to examine the nature and extent of the wound, when to his surprise and great gratification, he dis- covered the ball just buried in Ike's breast. In joyful elation he exclaimed, '' Ike, you are not much hurt; I can see the ball sticking in your breast," and instantly pulled it out. Ike immediately revived, and seeing John Terrill, who was riding ofif, yelled after him, '' Oh, John, come back here with that canteen." Terrill responded quickly, delighted to find his friend, who was dead, alive again. Ike took a copious draught, mounted his horse, and was soon back in ranks. Colonel Gates, in his report of this affair to General Patrick, says: " Major Van Renssalaer has returned with his command. Tho. D. Ranson. 246 Bull Run to Bull Run. The attack on the cattle-guard was made at daylight, and was a complete surprise. Some 300 of the District of Colum- bia Cavalr}^ were captured, most of them in their beds. Major Baker was wounded and captured. Another major of the same regiment was also captured, and most of the officers of the regiment; four herdsmen killed." And General Kautz reports to General Grant: '' Mr. Rollins informs me that Major Belcher stopped at his house, and said that their force was 14,000 strong; that they had cavalry and infantry; that they captured 2,460 head of cattle, and that the First District of Columbia Cavalry had escaped in the direction of Fort Powhatan.^' The Captain and Commissary of Subsistence, in the anguish of his soul at the loss of his beef, sends the following report to headquarters : " The enemy got off with the whole herd at Coggins Point — 2,486 head; none have been recap- tured." After this raid, the Army of Northern Virginia had a thirty (lays' change of diet from hard-tack and mess-pork to hard- tack and juicy beefsteak, and tenderloin at that — a change much relished and enjoyed. Generals Lee and Hampton having partaken of one of Generals Grant's and Meade's porterhouses. General Hamp- ton, in the exultation of the moment, issued the following address : general orders no. ii. Headquarters Cavalry Corps, Army Northern Virginia, Septemper 18, 1864. The Alajor-General commanding takes pride in communi- cating to his command the praise which their recent achieve- ment has won from the Commanding General, who, in acknowledging his report of the successful return of his command from the rear of the enemy's army, says: *' You will please convey to the officers and men of your Bull Run to Bull Run. 247 command my thanks for the courage and energy with which they executed your orders, by which they have added another to the list of important services rendered by the cavalry during the present campaign/' To such praise the Major-General commanding would only add the expression of his own appreciation of the gal- lantry of his officers and men, whose conduct in battle is all he could desire, and inspires him with pride and perfect confi- dence in such a command. By command of Major-General Wade Hampton. H. B. McClellan, Assistant Adjutant-General. CHAPTER XVII. Integer vitae scelerisque purus Non eget Nauris jaculis, neque arcu, Nee venenatis gravida saglttis, Fusee, pharetra. Horace. Our brigade remained in the neighborhood of Reams Station until the latter part of September, when it received orders to move to the Shenandoah Valley to reinforce Gen- eral Early, who had fallen back, after the battles of Win- chester and Fisher's Hill, to the vicinity of Staunton. On the 27th, we bade farewell to the " Virginia Lowlands," marched through Burkeville and Lynchburg, where we crossed the James, and ascended that stream on the line of the. canal until Lexington was reached, when the route to Staunton was taken. Passing through that city on the 5th of October, we joined the remnants of Early's army, and went into camp near Bridgewater. On the 6th, General Meigs's son was killed by a scout of our cavalry near Dayton, and Sheridan, in revenge, ordered the Fifth New York Cavalry to burn all the houses in the vicinity of that town. In the report of General Sheridan, dated Woodstock, Va.. October 7, 1864, is found the following: '' In moving back to this point the whole country from the Blue Ridge to the North Mountains has been made untenable for a rebel army. I have destroyed over 2,000 barns, filled with wheat, hay and farming implements; over seventy mills filled with flour and wheat; have driven in front of the army over 4,000 head of stock, and have killed and issued to the troops not less than 3,000 sheep. This destruction embraces the Luray Valley and Little Fort Valley as well as the main valley. A large number of horses have been obtained, a [248] Bull Run to Bull Run, 249 proper estimate of which I cannot now make. Lieutenant J. R. Meigs, my engineer officer, was murdered beyond Har- risonburg, near Dayton. For this atrocious act, all the houses within an area of five miles were burned." The Goths and Vandals never boasted of such infamy. Lieutenant Meigs was out with a scouting party of Federal cavalry, which was met by a scouting party of Confederate cavalry, and in a fair, square fight, was killed. This Sheridan calls murder, and revenges it by destroying the houses of helpless women and children and non-combatants. On the 6th, our brigade ascertained that Sheridan was retreating down the Valley, burning as he retired. We started in pursuit on the back road. When nearing Brock's Gap, some Federal soldiers caught in the act of burning a mill were shot. On the 7th, we moved rapidly after the retreating enemy, and in the afternoon found them posted at the fords on Mill Creek. The Seventh Cavalry and White's Battalion crossed above the fords and attacked on the flank in a gallant manner, while the Eleventh and Twelfth Cavalry attacked in front, utterly routing them and capturing a large number of pris- oners, wagons, forges, cattle and sheep. After pursuing the enemy several miles we found a considerable force posted behind rail-piles, at the edge of a woods, prepared to oppose our further progress. The Twelfth was ordered to charge, and, led by our gallant Lieutenant-Colonel, Massie, who was that evening in especially fine fighting trim, we rode over the breastworks, breaking their line and renewing their rout. After this engagement our commissary department called on Company B for a detail of two men to take charge of the captured sheep. As our Comrades Mote and Ike were farmers, and supposed to be learned in sheep husbandry, they were selected for this purpose, and accordingly reported for duty. There were about 1,000 sheep in this drove, and as Sheri- dan had only left a blackened waste behind him, and neither pasture nor feed could be obtained along his pathway, it was 250 Bull Run to Bull Run. deemed advisable by these shepherds to lead their flocks westward. On their way, they fell on Orkney Springs, and as the surroundings looked inviting for both man and beast, they concluded to lodge there. They soon ascertained that sheep was a better circulating medium in these parts than Confederate money, and they were not long in striking a bar- gain with the proprietor for two sheep a day in payment for board for themselves, horses, and sheep. In this quiet retreat and comfortable quarters the din of battle and clash of arms were forgotten, and if our forces had not met with a reverse, and the flock had not become exhausted, these tender shep- herds might have spent the remainder of the war in this happy retreat. But the battle of Cedar Creek rendered rations exceedingly scarce among our troops, and the cap- tured sheep were brought to remembrance, and diligent search made for their place of abode. After several days, the remnant with the shepherds were found safely quartered at this mountain resort, the sheep turned over to the commis- sary and the hungry soldiers, and Mote and Ike ordered back to Company B, where they regaled their comrades with their accounts of their pleasant outing. Colonel Purington, commanding the First Brigade of the Third Division of Cavalry Corps, in his report of the engage- ment of the 7th, says: ** The Second Brigade in the rear was attacked and com- pelled to fall back, losing all the cattle and some of the forges of the brigade. Part of the First Brigade were deployed, checking the enemy," and on the 8th he says : " The Eigh- teenth Cavalry, as rear-guard, was attacked and compelled to fall back on the brigade, losing some killed and a few wounded." Early on the morning of the 9th, Sheridan's Cavalry, in full force, recrossed Tom's Brook, attacked our cavalry division, then under command of General Rosser, and after a spirited fight, routed Wickham's Brigade on the back road 4 1 »» I. Banaon, M. D, 2^2 Bull Run to Bull Run, and Lomax on the turnpike, driving them in confusion and capturing our artillery on these roads. That morning our brigade was occupj^ing a jx^sition about midway between these two roads. Colonel Dulaney, commanding the brigade, ordered our regiment in line in front of a piece of woodland, in which we had encamped during the night. In a few moments the enemy appeared in our front in considerable force, and began a rapid fire on our column. Colonel Dulaney, as brave as Julius Caesar and as punctilious in obedience to orders as the boy that stood on the burning deck, declined to attack, and we were left at the mercy of the enemy's fire, with little ability to return it. Company B possessed no weapons but pistols and sabers, and clamored to go forward, but the Colonel peremptorily declined. Find- ing that our lives would be sacrificed without injury to the enemy, I disobeyed orders and led a charge of Company B on the enemy in our front, breaking its line and throw- ing them into confusion. But our number (not over 21 men) was too small to hold the advantage we had gained, and we were forced to retire on our regiment. In this charge Ike Anderson, a gallant member of the company, was shot througfh the lungs and carried oflf the field. We had just rejoined our regiment, which had been some- what relieved by our charge, when our men on the back road were discovered rapidly retreating, the enemy pursuing and completely turning our left flank. The order to retire was given, and our brigade, now under Colonel Funsten, Colonel Dulaney having been wounded, moved slowly back, repulsing several attempts of the enemy to break our line. Coming in view of the turnpike, we discovered Lomax in rapid retreat on that road. With a good leader, our brigade might have saved our artillery on the back road by a well-directed charge on the rear and flank of the enemy. As it was, we were forced back by the enemy's advance on the turnpike and back road, while but feebly pressed ourselves. Lieutenant Washington and myself were w4th our rear- Bull Run to Bull Run, ^5J guard, skirmishing with the enemy's advance, and in one of their onsets my horse was wounded in the leg. The loss in our command that day was severe in artillery and prisoners, but our numbers were largely inferior to the enemy; the enemy having Custer's, Merritt's, and Powell's divisions against Rosser's (Fitz Lee's) and Lomax's divisions — 10,000 men against less than 4,000. General Early, in his report to General Lee, says : " Rosser, in command of his own brigade and the two brigades of Fitz Lee's Division, and Lomax, with two brigades of his own cavalry, were ordered to pursue the enemy, to harass him and ascertain his purposes, while I re- mained here, so as to be ready to move east of the Ridge, if necessary, and I am sorry to inform you that the enemy, having concentrated his whole cavalry in his rear, attacked them and drove them back this morning from near Fisher's Hill, capturing nine pieces of horse artillery and eight or ten wagons. . Their loss in men is, I understand, slight. I have not heard definitely from Rosser, but he is, I understand, failing back in good order, having rallied his command, which is on what is called the back road, which is west of the turn- pike; but Lomax's command, which was on the turnpike, came back to this place in confusion. This is very distressing to me, and God knows I have done all in my power to avert the disasters which have befallen this command; but the fact is that the enemy's cavalry is so much superior to ours, both in numbers and equipments, and the country is so favorable to the operations of cavalry, that it is impossible for ours to compete with his. Lomax's cavalry are armed entirely with rifles, and have no sabers, and the consequence is, that they cannot fight on horseback, and in this open country they cannot successfully fight on foot against large bodies of cavalry; besides, the command is and has been demoralized all the time. It would be better if they could be put into infantry; but if that were tried I am afraid they would all run off." 254 Bull Run to Bull Run. In 1863, Lomax was going to have some of Company B shot for a little flank to their homes. It seems, according to General Early's views, there were some others now much more deserving of that fate: General Sheridan, in his report to General Grant, says : ** On coming back to this point (Strasburg) I was not followed in until late yesterday, when a large force of cavalry appeared in my rear. I then halted the command to offer battle by attacking the enemy. I became satisfied that it was only all the rebel cavalry of the Valley commanded by Rosser and directed Torbert to attack at daylight this morning and finish this savior of the J ^ alley. The attack was handsomely made. Custer, commanding the Third Cavalry Division, charged on the back road, and Merritt, commanding the First Cavalry Division on the Strasburg turnpike. Merritt cap- tured five pieces of artillery, Custer captured six of artillery, with caiasons, battery forge, etc. The two divisions captured 37 wagons, ambulances, etc. Among the wagons captured are the headquarters wagons of Rosser, Lomax, and Wick- ham, and Colonel Munford. The number of prisoners cap- tured will be about 330. I deemed it best to make this delay of one day here and settle this new cavalry general." As laid down in the old couplet : He who fights and runs away, Will live to fight another day.' In a few days our cavalry rallied from its discomfiture and were again ready for action. On the 12th, our march down the Valley was resumed, and on the 13th we reached Stras- burg, the enemy having retired north of Cedar Creek. On the night of the i6th a novel raid was made by our brigade taking Grimes's infantry brigade behind them to the rear of the enemy's right, with the intention of surprising Custer's camp near Petticoat Gap, but the expedition failed, as Cus- ter's camp had that day been moved, but we captured a picket of 50 men and returned to camp with our infantry comrades Bull Run to Bull Run, 255 considerable worsted by the wear and tear of the midnight jaunt. On the morning of the 19th, at 5 o'clock, our brigade moved into position on the back road and the Cedar-Creek battle was opened. As day broke, Gordon's guns were heard on our right, soon followed by musketry, and in a short time the enemy could be seen in rapid flight. Our brigade crossed Cedar Creek and pressed back the enemy's right wing, and victory seemed assured for our arms. But about 6 P. M. our brigade moved back to the south side of Cedar Creek and the first squadron of the Twelfth Cavalry, under my charge, was left to guard and hold the ford. After skirmishing with the enemy until after dark, our horses were fed and the men laid down to rest, perfectly oblivious of the rout of our infan- try and its retreat up the Valley. That night, as I was rest- ing my head on Tom Timberlake's knee, his pistol fell out of the holster and the hammer striking a rail on which he was sitting, was discharged, the ball striking Timberlake's breast, inflicting a serious wound, and he fell forward on me. His wound was dressed, and he was sent to the rear. The rising sun found us safe and sound on our post, with the enemy just across the creek. Between 8 and 9 A. M. some of our infantry came straggling into our camp, and from them we learned that General Early, late in the evening before, was defeated, and w^as in rapid retreat up the Valley, Sheridan pursuing. It was hard to realize the truth of this statement, as visions of an advance on the enemy, of getting to our homes in the lower Valley and meeting with relatives and friends, had so possessed our minds during the night that the truth of itself could scarcely eradicate them. But being unwillingly persuaded of the turn of fortune, without orders from our superior officers, who in the excitement of the occa- sion had abandoned us to our fate, our pickets were quietly withdrawn; the squadron mounted and retired up the back road .until opposite Woodstock, where it moved to the turn- pike, and found our brigade covering Early's rear. Why the 256 Bull Run to Bull Run. enemy did not close in and capture our squadron has always been a mystery. I suppose in their great joy at turning our morning victory into evening defeat, such small gaeie was overlooked. Probably in no other engagement during the war was there such a complete turn in the tide of victory. The victory of our troops in the morning seemed decisive, and the rout of the enemy complete, but failure to follow up the advantage so as to prevent a rally gave the enemy an opportunity to reorganize; and to the fortunate return of their commander, inspiring them with confidence, at a time when our forces were scattered and bent on plunder rather than duty, the disaster can be safely ascribed. General Early, in his rejxjrt to General Lee, says : " The Sixth and Nineteenth Corps have not left_the Valley. I fought them both yesterday. I attacked Sheridan's camp on Cedar Creek before day yesterday morning and surprised and routed the Eighth and Nineteenth Corps, and then drove the Sixth Corps beyond Middletown, capturing 18 pieces of artillery and 1,300 prisoners; but the enemy subsequently made a stand on the turnpike, and in turn attacked my line, and my left gave way, and the rest of the troops took a panic and could not be rallied, retreating in confusion. But for their bad conduct, I should have defeated Sheridan's whole force. On the retreat back to Fisher's Hill the enemy cap- tured about 30 pieces of artillery and some wagons and ambulances. The prisoners (1,300) were brought off. My losses in men were not heavy. General Ramseur was seriously wounded while acting with gallantry, and was captured by the enemy." * On the following day, General Early reports that his net loss in artillery was 2;^ pieces, and killed and wounded less than 1,000. General Sheridan, in his report, says: " I have the honor to report that my army at Cedar Creek was attacked this morning before daylight, and my left was Thotnaa Redman. 2^8 Bull Run to Bull Run, turned and driven in confusion; in fact, most of the line was driven in confusion, with the loss of 20 pieces of artillery. I hastened from Winchester, where I was on my return from Washington, and joined the army between Middletown and Newtown, having been driven back about four miles. I here took the affair in hand and quickly united the corps, and formed a compact line of battle just in time to repulse an attack of the enemy, which was handsomely done about i P. M. At 3 P. M., after some changes of the cavalry from the left to the right flank, I attacked with great vigor, driving and routing the enemy, capturing, according to reports, 43 pieces of artillery and very many prisoners. I do not know the number of my casualties or the losses of the enemy; wagon- trains, ambulances, and caissons in large numbers are in our possession. They also burned some of their trains. General Ramseur is a prisoner in our hands, severely and perhaps mortally wounded. I have to regret the loss of General Bid- w^ell, killed, and Generals Wright, Groon, and Ricketts, wounded; Wright slightly wounded. Affairs at times looked badly, but by the gallantry of our brave officers and men disaster has been converted into a splendid victory." Of the 43 pieces of artillery claimed as captured, 20 of them were his own, making our loss 23. Our killed and wounded were less than his, and the prisoners 1,300, while our loss in prisoners was less than 1,000. When the numbers engaged on the respective sides are compared, the result cannot be considered a disaster, and if the victory of the morning could have been maintained, it would have been one of the most brilliant of the war : From the returns of Sheridan's army for the month of October we find present for duty as follows : Sixth Army Corps (Wright) 15,695 Eighth Army Corps (Crook) 24,934 Nineteenth Army Corps (Emory) 11,387 Cavalry Corps (Torbert) 9,704 Total 61,720 Bull Run to Bull Run. 2^^ Early's army, as reported October 9, 1864, is as follows: Infantry and artillery 6,000 Kershaw's Division, added after that date 4,000 Cavalry Corps (Raseer and Lomax) 4,000 Total 14,000 With such odds against him, this defeat will not detract from the fame of General Early as a leader and fighter, nor add luster to the fame of Sheridan's army, though, personally, General Sheridan deserves great praise for having wrested victory from defeat, rout, and confusion. After this battle, Sheridan moved back to the vicinity of Winchester, our lines were advanced to Strasburg, and both armies remained comparatively quiet until the nth of November, when our brigade moved back of Middletown, where it encountered Custer's Division of Cavalry, and after a hot contest fell back to Cedar Creek, capturing in the fight some prisoners. In this skirmish Company B lost Phil Terrill, killed; a soldier not only brave and courageous, but possessing many manly and social qualities. The Valley campaign was now virtually ended. From the time Sheridan took command, on the part of the enemy, the war assumed entirely a new phase. Prior to this, the war had been conducted on civilized principles, but now robbery, arson, and desolation marked its pathway. Sheridan boasted that he had burnt between Harrisonburg and Winchester bams, houses, mills, grain, hay, stores by the thousands, and driven oflf cattle, hogs and sheep by the tens of thousands. The character of his warfare may be seen by an order of November 7, 1864: Brigadier-General Stevenson : In case the railroad to Winchester is interferred with by guerillas, I want you to arrest all male secessionists in Charles- town, Shepherdstown, Smithfield, and Berryville, and in the adjacent country, sending them to Fort McHenry, Md. You ^6o Bull Run to Bull Run. will also bum all grain, destroy all subsistence, and drive off all stock belonging to such individuals, and turn it over to the treasury agent. This order must be obeyed by you. P. H. Sheridan, Major-General Commanding. Could Weyler surpass this? Reconcentradoes were not as inhumanly treated. For fear General Stevenson was possessed of the quality of mercy and kindness, he endeavored to stifle such emotions with the demand more becoming a South African potentate than an American citizen, " This order must be obeyed'' He boasts that he had destroyed the Valley for ninety-two miles, and left in it little for man or beast. In his report of October 27th, after informing General Halleck of various movements he was making, he says : " These, with other demonstrations which I will make, will secure Aug^r against all but Mosby and the numerous rob- bers that now infest the country, and which one good regi- ment could clear any time, if the regimental commander had spunk enough to try it. There is a regiment of cavalry at Harper's Ferry, one at Martinsburg, and one at Winchester, which is a sufficient force to keep the lower Valley clear, but they do not do it. Brigadier-General Duffie was captured between Winchester and Martinsburg. I respectfully request his dismissal from service. I think him a trifling man and a poor soldier. He was captured by his own stupidity." * Poor old Duffie! A short time before he had issued his order that all of Mosby's men captured should be hung, and now that he was a prisoner among Mosby's men, his discom- fiture was great; especially when he was brought before Colonel Mosby, with a copy of his order. Mosby soon saw that his punishment already suffered was greater than death, and kindly sent him off to Richmond, but not until he had given a number of Mosby's men certificates to the eflfect that he had been treated with great civility, and wished if they should be captured, that they should be treated with kindness and consideration. 4^ CHAPTER XVIII. Over the river they beckon to me. Loved ones who've crossed to the farther side; The gleam of their snowy robes I see, But their voices are lost in the dashing tide. We only know that their barks no more May sail with us o*er life's stormy sea. Yet somewhere, I know, on the unseen shore They watch, and beckon and wait for me. Priest. About the middle of November, General Rosser sent me with a detail of six men from Company B to ascertain the situation and number of Federal troops in the lower Valley. After obtaining this information, I concluded that I would not return empty-handed, and finding no spot more inviting for adventure than the camp of a company of the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry, doing picket duty at Keyes's Ford, on the Shenandoah, after consultation, we determined to try our hand on them. On the night of the 22d of November, pass- ing unnoticed through the enemy's infantry picket at Hall- town, the rear of the cavalry picket camp was gained. As we were seven to about fifty of the enemy, a little stragegy was found necessary, and the attack was arranged on the Gideon plan. Much to our surprise, the picket force had a sentinel on guard in its rear, and as we approached, we were halted about two hundred yards from the camp. To the sen- tinel's demand, '' Who comes there," I responded, '' Friends." "Friends to whom?" was the demand. *'Abe Lincoln," I replied. "Advance and give the countersign," the sentinel replied. Cautioning the boys that so soon as I fired they were to come to my aid with all the speed and noise possible, I rode forward, but before I reached the sentinel he fired his gun and rapidly retreated to camp. It is recorded in the [261] 262 Bull Run to Bull Run, Bible, " The stars in their courses fought against Sisera," and on that still November night, as with the rebel yell we charged along the River road, the Shenandoah and the Blue Ridge echoing and re-echoing our shout and magnifying our little band into a mighty host, fought for us, and we dashed ^nto the enemy's camp to find only some 50 riderless horses and 13 men too much frightened to run. The rest had sought safety in llight. Gathering up 13 prisoners and 26 horses, ail we could conveniently manage, we crossed the river and passed out of the enemy's line along the Blue Ridge Mountain road. Arriving at headquarters in safety, prisoners and booty were disposed of, and report made to General Rosser. On the following day we obtained permission from the General for Company B to operate in the lower Vailey. After getting within the enemy's lines the company was dis- banded, with directions for the men to meet at a certain time and place; the interim was spent among friends and acquaint- ances, changing quarters every night to prevent capture by the enemy. On the 25th, Ned Aisquith and myself ventured to spend a night at my home, which was far in the enemy's rear, on the line of the Winchester and Potomac railroad, then operated by Sheridan's forces, and within two miles of Federal camps on either side. Arriving at home about 9 P. M., we placed our horses in a side stable of a large back barn; unsaddled, unbridled, and fed them and entered the house, then occupied by my mother, sister, and three small brothers. The boys were fast asleep. To attract as little attention as possible, we went to my mother's chamber, and were soon enjoying some wine and cake, for soldiers were always hungry and never refused to eat. We had not been seated more than a half-hour, when my sister, in passing a front window, exclaimed in affright, " Oh, look at the Yankees ! " We did not look, but, using our wits, prepared for action. Unbuckling our sabers, we hid them between the two mattresses of the bed. Just then knocks leaac H. Strider. 264 Bull Run to Bull Run. were heard at the front door, and I told mother to let them in, as I knew thev would break down the door if refused admit- tance. My plans were matured and confidence restored. Mother, taking a lamp, started downstairs on her mission, and I followed a short distance behind, with Ned Aisquith at my heels, and reached a side door to the hall, opening on a side porch, next to the garden. Fortunately for us, a puff of wind extinguished my mother's lamp, and we passed out unnoticed ' and soon mingled with the Yankees around the house, the night being too dark to distinguish gray from blue. Passing through them slowly, so as not to attract attention, we hast- ened to the stable to procure our horses. When we reached the barn we were surprised to find the Yankees there, search- ing the stable, but as the side stable was not visible from the front of the barn, our horses had escaped their search. Enter- ing through a feed-room, access was obtained to our horses, which were in a few moments bridled, saddled, and mounted. Opening a side door, we rode out, and were met by an inquiry from the Yankees, '' Well, boys, did you find those horses? " to which I answered, " Yes; a couple of old rips," and started in the direction of the house, but soon changed our course to an opposite point of the compass. Just as we were begin- ning to feel safe out of the enemy's clutches we were suddenly halted by a picket stationed beyond the bam. Veering to avoid this picket and making no answer, we passed out with- out further molestation. After being routed from home, we went to the home of my brother-in-law, about a mile distant, and fastening our horses in a thicket a short distance from his house and supplying them with a good feed from his corn-field, we laid down be- neath the stars and slept as sweetly as the babes in the woods. In the morning, having fed our horses (the horse was always first in a cavalryman's thoughts), the house was approached from the rear, our horses fastened behind the smoke-house, and we entered the dining-room to get break- fast. As we were being seated at the table, through extra Bull Run to Bull Run, 265 precaution, we walked to the front door to take a survey of the situation, and discovered a company of Federal cavalry entering the front-yard gate. Quickly taking unceremonious leave, we mounted our horses, and leaping the rear-yard fence, reached the thicket, where the preceding night was spent, before the enemy reached the rear of the house. Con- cealed in the thicket, we watched the enemy's movements. We saw them ride around the house, make some inquiry of the servants, and then pass out the lane. Being now satisfied the way was clear, we returned to the house, and enjoyed our breakfast. On the night of the 29th, with 30 men of Company B, we attacked the camp of the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry at Charlestown. Passing through the enemy's picket line, through a hollow just east of the town, under cover of a cloud of fog such as usually hangs on autumn nights over the little valleys near the river, and unobserved by the sentry on the adjacent hills, we reached in safety the north side of the town and the rear of the enemy's camp, and rode quietly to a point near the block-house, about twenty yards from the camp. Here the men dismounted, leaving the horses in charge of the fourth man in each file of fours, and noiselessly gained the block-house. Here was the picture of Fitz Greene Halleck's poetical fancy: "At midnight in his guarded tent, The Turk was dreaming of the hour." Stealthily moving on, the sleeping camp was entered, and the occupants awoke to find themselves prisoners. There was sudden confusion and scampering among the enemy. Some twenty .of their number, lodged in a stone house near by, opened fire on us. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, we rushed upon the house, and, seizing the door and windows, poured several volleys into the building. Just as George Crayton, my brother Robert W. Baylor, Jr. (a boy of seven- teen), and myself entered the door, several shots were fired by the inmates, one mortally wounding my brother and 266 Bull Run to Bull Run. another severely wounding Crayton. A few moments after, the cry of surrender came from the group huddled together in the building, and the firing ceased. My brother and Cray- ton were removed to the house of Dr. Mason, who had been for years our family physician, and where I knew they would be well cared for. My brother died in a few hours, but Cray- ton rallied for awhile, and died soon after the close of the war. The loss of these two gallant soldiers was deeply deplored by their comrades, and especially by myself. On the sajne day, just one year before, my brother Richard had been killed in a cavalry engagement at Parker's Store, near Fredericksburg, and of the four members of the family in the company I was the last. In this engagement we killed and wounded ii of the enemy, captured 2y prisoners and 37 horses and equip- ments. It seems a little strange in the light of recent publications of the War Records that success attend-ed us in this attack, for we find that as early as November 23d, the day after the attack at Keyes's Ford, General Sheridan dispatched General Stevenson at Harper's Ferry as follows : Kernstown, Va., November 23, 1864. General : It is reported that Major Congdon, of the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry, reports the enemy in force at or near Charlestown. Find out if he has made this untruthful report If the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry cannot keep that coun- try clear of guerillas, I will take the shoulder straps off every officer belonging to the regiment and dismount the regiment in disgrace. P. H. Sheridan, Major-Grcneral. And on the 28th of the same month he wires the command- ing officer at Charlestown : Kernstown, Va., November 28, 1864. Commanding Officer, Charlestown, Va. : Look out for Mosby to-night. P. H. Sheridan, Major-Grcneral. Bull Run to Bull Run. 26/ And Captain Payne, commanding the Twelfth Pennsyl- vania on the night of the attack, in his report, says : I have the honor to report that in accordance with infor- mation of yesterday, our reserve post was attacked by the rebels last night between the hours of 11 and 12 o'clock, kill- ing two men, wounding one, and capturing five of our men and 19 horses. The enemy lost in killed, one man (a young Baylor), and three wounded. They were about 200 strong, and attacked the post from dififerent directions, dismounted. They were commanded by a major. Lieutenant Baylor was also with them, as his name was frequently mentioned by them at the time of the attack. Nathaniel Payne, Lieutenant S. F. Adams, Captain Commanding. Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, Harper's Ferry, W. Va. The eyes of the Captain on that night evidently had large magnifying powers when viewing our little band of 30 men, and corresponding minimizing powers when recounting his loss on that occasion. He was afraid of General Sheridan's threat. After the fight at Charlestown, we retired to the neighbor- hood of Milldale, and got rid of our prisoners and booty. The enemy, it seems, took a scout around, as usual after a fight, and reported as follows : Headquarters Second Cavalry Division, December i, 1864. Major William Russell, Jr., Assistant Adjutant-General Cavalry: Major, — The reconnoisance sent out yesterday under Major T. Gibson, Fourteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, has re- turned, having thoroughly scouted the country between Mill- wood and Summit Point to near Charlestown. No enemy was seen. Mosby was reported to have been in Berryville on the 29th. Baylor, who commanded the party of rebels which fought the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry at Charlestown, was killed, with one man. The party dispersed after the fight. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Wm. B. Tibbitts, Brevet Brigadier-General Commanding. 268 Bull Run to Bull Run. I am, notwithstanding this report, thanks to a kind Providence, stiil alive and hearty. We were not quiet very long. On the 6th day of December, with about 35 men, we made a little scout in the direction of the Double ToUgate, near White Post, expecting to meet some scouting party of the enemy in that direction. We remained in that vicinity until about 3 P. ^I., when we returned to Milldale, and there learned that two companies of the Twenty-first New York Cavalry, numbering about 100 men, had been there before us, had taken Jim Randall, one of our men, prisoner, had plun- dered the good citizens of everything valuable, and were not more than twenty minutes ahead of us. That was enough. Though we were greatly inferior in numbers, all clamored for pursuit. We started at a brisk trot and overtook them in about a mile. A charge was ordered, and we came down on them '' like a wolf on the fold," with the usual rebel yell. In an instant we were among them, and they in full retreat. Just as I passed the rear of their column I saw Jim Randall in a fence corner disarming one of his captors. He recogfnized us, and shouted, " Give them hell, boys! " and we did. There was no halt or hesitation among our men. It seemed that each one was tr}^ing to be foremost. Lieutenant Holcombe, who was commanding the Yankee detachment, tried to rally his men, and at last, in very desperation, planted his horse across the road to stop them, but they deserted him, and soon our boys, with well-directed shots from their pistols, rolled him and his horse on the ground. It was about this point in the melee that our gallant comrade, Charles Broadway Rouss, who was always in the forefront in a fight, as he is in business to-day, bulged into a Federal trooper, knocking him and his horse down; but the shock threw his horse also, and the bold rider landed about fifteen feet off in a fence comer. But the net spot-cash vigor and nerve was in him then as now, and, mounting again, he was soon among the foremost in the pursuit, which continued for three miles or more. In this A. H. Aisquith and I.. I.. Sadler. 2yo Bull Run to Bull Run. engagement we killed and wounded 17, captured 35 prisoners and ^y horses and equipments. On the next morning General Tibbitts reports as follows to General Sheridan: Headquarters Second Cavalry Division, December 7, 1864. Major William Russell, Assistant Adjutant-General of Cavalry : Major, — Yesterday morning a detachment of 50 men of the Twenty-first New York Cavalry, under Lieutenant Hol- combe, was sent to patrol the country in the vicinity of Morgan's and Howellsville fords of the Shenandoah, with orders to return via Millwood. Full instructions were given to Lieutenant Holcombe, and he was cautioned to be con- stantly on the alert and ready for an attack. It appears from the statement of an officer who was with Lieutenant Hol- combe, that he was attacked when near Millwood by a party of about 30 of the enemy, who came up the road in his rear. At the same time another party attacked them in the flank. There was apparently no fight at all, but a rapid and disgrace- ful flight. Lieutenant Holcombe was captured, and about 30 of his men. The remainder have come in. I transmit this at the hands of one of the officers who was with the party. The men will be sent immediately. Respectfully, Wm. B. Tibbitts, Brevet Brigadier-General. Again on the same day he reports as follows : The scouts to the fords of the Shenandoah have returned and report all quiet. Lieutenant Holcombe was found at a house near White Post badly wounded. Three of his men were killed; 27 captured. The number of the enemy is esti- mated at 35. Wm. B. Tibbitts, Brigadier-General. A summary of these fights — November 22d and 29th, and December 6th — will show that in fifteen days, with a company whose ranks had been depleted in a hard campaign with the Army of Northern Virginia, fighting on each occasion greatly superior numbers, we had killed and wounded 28, captured Bull Run to Bull Run, 2/1 75 men, and 100 horses and equipments. Before closing I wish to do justice to Lieutenant Nelson B. Holcombe. In reading over the War Records I find the following : Kernstown, Va., December 9, 1864. Major-General H. W. Halleck, Chief of Stafif: I have nothing to report except the surprise and capture of a party of 2y men of the Twenty-first New York Cavalry. They belonged to a scouting party of the Second Cavalry Division. The officer in command was Lieutenant Holcombe. He was wounded. I have dismissed him from the service. P. H. Sheridan, Major-General Commanding. I do not know whether Lieutenant Holcombe is dead or alive. If alive, this may be some consolation to him; if dead, as I had supposed from the nature of his wounds, a just tribute to his memory. My comrades and myself will cheer- fully bear testimony to the fact that Lieutenant Holcombe, of all the men in his command, bore himself most gallantly in this fight. Having used his utmost endeavors to rally his men, and finding his efforts of no avail, he threw himself in the breach, and, foremost fighting, fell. Comrade Rouss draws from this fight a useful lesson for the battle of life and business, and shows that success is due to vigilance and to holding our forces well in hand for sudden emergencies. He says : '' I recall a parallel. A quarter of a century ago, in the war times, when Sheridan was sweeping up the old Valley with fire and sword with barbaric savagery, he had sent three hundred old defenceless people to prison, among them my father. He had just burned the town of Dayton because one of his plunderers had been shot, and he had heard of the meeting of a few rebel dare-devils on the Shenandoah and sent a Lieutenant Holcombe, of the Twenty- first New York Cavalry, with 100 picked blue-coats, to kill or capture the 30 desperadoes who had ventured so far within his lines. There was some miscalculation as to time, how- 2T2 Bull Run to Bull Run. ever. Holcombe had been there, and was leisurely returning, disappointed in his game, had ransacked every chicken-coop, smoke-house and dwelling, and his tired boys were loaded down with pigs, ducks, turkeys, hams, eggs, and the devil only knows what they had not. Thus they were loaded down with collaterals and negotiables, when that hungry, reckless little band of rough-riders struck them without counting, and charged with the old rebel yell. God Almighty! It was all over in less time than I write it. We got 65 prisoners, 29 were killed and wounded; 11 got away. We would have had them all, but one big German Yank stood square in the road brandishing his sword. He could not get out of the way nor could we stop. Baylor and I, side by side, struck him first. The collision was terrific; right after us came thunder- ing the rest. Some had a dozen pistols. I had seven on my belt that day. Yes: that big fellow, that couldn't say a word in English, piled us ail up in the road and saved the balance of his command. I found myself twenty feet away. I never saw Baylor again until night, but the 300-pounder lay coiled up in the fence corner, dead as Julius Caesar, and the fleet- footed few escaped, or we would have had every one. The heroic lieutenant was as fierce and fearless as a lion, but his men were massed in the road, paralyzed and pulverized before they had time to fight or surrender. Like the rich old hun- dred percenter in the sweat-box, his assets were in bad shape, and on that country road, within rifle-shot of the camp-fires around old Winchester, by the Timberlake farm, that splendid soldier yielded up his life. '' That night on the Blue Ridge, that tired little iron band of victors had chicken and pies and cake, and lamb and sau- sage, and real coffee, and we fed the Yankees on Confederate hard-tack and water. The Great Lord had fought for us that day, and we went to bed for once on a full stomach, and in the drenching rain slept sound, never dreaming of the mor- row. Had the heroic Holcombe had his forces in fighting trim, it would have been desperate work for us — ^four to one — but he was in bad shape, and in consequence he went down." CHAPTER XIX. Gold! Gold! Gold! Gold! Bright and yellow, hard and cold, Molten, graven, hammered and rolled; Heavy to get, and light to hold; Hoarded, bartered, bought and sold, Stolen, borrowed, squandered, doled. I Hood. Several days after the Stone Bridge fight I learned through a reliable source that a bank had been established at Sharps- burg, Md., and that there was a considerable deposit of funds in the institution. The news had the effect of a Klondike craze on our impoverished men. Go, I must. With 15 men I essayed to cross the Potomac, some thirty miles in rear of the enemy's Hnes, and remove this deposit further South,, where it was sorely needed and could be more easily circu- lated. The enemy at this time occupied Winchester, Summit Point, Charlestown, Halltown, Harper's Ferr}% and stations along the Baltimore and Ohio railroad. By passing through this line at night w^e could avoid all obstacles to crossing the Potomac at Butler's Ford, ascending the river, crossing the canal on the bridge opposite Shepherdstown, and after a short ride, reaching Sharpsburg, seizing our coveted booty, and returning to the Blue Ridge before daylight. The scheme seemed feasible, the prize was alluring, and our hearts were in the enterprise. Crossing the Shenandoah near Manning's Ferr}- just after dark on the night of the 12th of December, we passed safely through the enemy's lines between Charlestown and Hall- town, and proceeded safely on our way. When near the Terrill farm we ran upKDn some Federal infantry engaged in the not very laudable enterprise of stealing sheep. We talked with them (feigning to belong to the Twelfth Pennsylvania 18 [ 273 ] 2J4 Bull Run to Bull Run. Cavalry, which we knew was stationed at Charlestown), gave them some sound views on the violation of the Eighth Com- mandment, and pressed on to Butler's Ford, where we crossed the river and started up the towpath towards Shepherdstown in order to get over the canal. A short distance up the towpath we met several canalboats loaded with grain on the way to Washington. As we passed the mule drivers we re- sponded to their inquiries of ** what command? " " Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry." Leaving them behind we were soon within a few feet of the bridge over the canal, when we were suddenly halted by a half-dozen soldiers standing near the north abutment of the Potomac bridge. This was not in our program, and to say we were surprised, puts the matter vcr)' gently. To their inquiry, "Who comes there?'' I responded, '* Friend," and in a few moments the Sergeant was at my side, with his hand on my knee in the most friendly manner. Fortunately, the night was dark and little flakes of snow were falling. Our enemies were soon at ease and a good deal easier than we were. The men behind me were still as mice, and their silence somewhat oppressed me. I informed the guard that we were a scouting party sent out by General Stevenson (commander at Harper's Ferry), to arrest some disloyal citizens at Sharps- burg, and l)eionged to the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalr)', but had not l)een given the countersign, and did not know we had to pass through any of our troops. The Sergeant very cour- teously responded that they belonged to the Sixth Pennsyl- vania Cavalry, and had been sent to that post on that day; that he would call the officer of the guard, who, no doubt, would pass us through — and he proceeded to make his call. We then, for the first time, recognized the cavalry camp on the north bank of the canal, and our better judgment called for a retreat, as we were largely outnumbered. The officer, a captain, was soon fully satisfied of our gen- uineness, leaned up against my horse and kindly offered to pass us through and back. But the risk was too great. Setli M. Timberlake. 2^6 Bull Run to Bull Run. Visions of rope floated before me. The boys, in making a run on the bank in Sharpsburg, would Ukely create some dis- turbance if their checks were not promptly honored, and the troops at Shepherdstown, receiving notice, would probably bar our retreat, and all would, most likely, be hung up before morning. In order, however, to further allay suspicion, I informed the Captain that I did not like the business intrusted to me (and to his honor be it said, he didn't, either), and would rather he would decline to let me pass, as then I could go back and report to General Stevenson that he had failed to give me the countersign, and we could not get to Sharps- burg. To this he readily assented, and I ordered the boys to face about, which movement was responded to in double- quick time, and we were soon retracing our steps down the towpath. We had been foiled in our monetary enterprise, and it was a sore disappointment, but we soon determined not to go home empty-handed. Quickening our gait, we soon over- took the canalboats passed on our trip up, and mules being the next best currency, proceeded to lay hold of these, all the time asserting we were the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry and were impressing them for government service. We gathered up some 15 or 1 6 and took the drivers with us to help bring them off. The boats were loaded with contraband, but mothers and children were on board, and our hearts were too tender to turn them out on that rough night, so they escaped destruction. We recrossed the river with our booty, and with quiet steps were soon in the neighborhood of our friend William Beall's farm, where we discharged the drivers, telling them we could now safely take the mules into Charles- town, and they could return to their boats. After we were out of sight of them we deflected from the route to Charles- *town, recrossed the Shenandoah near Manning's Ferry, and laid down to rest at our old friend Nat Manning^s house, to whom, in consideration of his kindness, we presented some six sets of harness which we had brought off. After the war Bull Run to Bull Run, 2/y I saw his team in Charlestown accoutred with that same harness. We learned a few days afterward that we had caused a little commotion in the camp of the Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry, as several hardy boatmen had appeared there on the next day, charging that honorable command with stealing mules; but, no mules being found, the crime was laid at the feet of Mosby's men — the scapegoats of Confederates in these parts. General Stevenson seems to have been a little provoked at our interruption by the Sixth Pennsylvania Cavalry, for on the next day he indites the following letter : Harper's Ferry, Va., December 13, 1864. Major-General Sheridan : General Sullivan has established a line of pickets on the Potomac river near Shepherdstown, with instructions to permit no crossing, they refusing to permit a patrol of mine to cross the river. I would respectfully ask if General Sulli- van is acting under orders from superior headquarters. The pickets are within this military district, as I understand its limits. John. D. Stevenson, Brigadier-General Commanding, Military District, Harper's Ferry. To this letter General Sheridan replies: Headquarters, Winchester, Va., December 13, 1864. General Stevenson : General Sullivan is not on duty, but awaiting orders. You must pitch into him. I have ordered the quartermaster's department at Hagerstown broken up and turned in to you. P. H. Sheridan, Major-General. Armed with this authority, the irate General writes as follows : Harper's Ferry, Va., December 14, 1864. Commanding Officer Sixth Pennsylvania Cavalry: I understand that vou have established a line of pickets on 2^8 Bull Run to Bull Run. the Potomac river, under orders from Brigadier- General Sullivan, interfering with the crossing of the Potomac river by persons with my passes, and also refusing to allow my patrol to cross. Major-General Sheridan has telegraphed me that General Sullivan is not on duty, but awaiting orders, and is not authorized to assume anv command. This interference by your pickets in my military district with my command is all wrong. I desire you either at once to withdraw^ your pickets, or instruct them that they are alone to prevent cross- ing of contraband articles or rebels, and not to interrupt loyal citizens or troops on duty. John D Stevenson, Brigadier-General Commanding, ^Military District, Harper's Ferry. It would seem that Generals Sheridan and Stevenson were our friends and much incensed at our interception and inter- ruption by the Sixth Pennsylvania Cavalr}^ on this occasion, and if General Sullivan had attended to his own busin-ess and let other people's alone, especially General Stevenson's, we might have returned shouting like the fortunate back-comers from the Klondike. The weather in December became intensely cold, and the ground was covered with snow. General Lee and his army entered the winter under the most disadvantageous and de- pressing circumstances. General Sherman had marched across Georgia to the sea, and the Confederacy was divided in twain. Our railroad communications with Richmond were being frequently cut, rations for men and forage for horses had become exceedingly scarce, and Lee's men were really suffer- ing from hunger. Our army was greatly depleted and could not be recruited. The situation was desperate. Desertion was frequent, but possibly not more frequent among us than among our well-fed and well-clothed enemies. On December 20, 1864, ^^^ fii^<^l the following: Major-General A. V. Kautz, Commanding Cavalry Division : General, — The great number of desertions that we are now having from this army makes it necessary to exercise unusual vigilance and precaution to stop it. The Major-General com- Bull Run to Bull Run. 2^p manding- directs, therefore, that you instruct your officers and men on outpost and picket duty to use their utmost endeavors to arrest all whom they may see trying to desert; if necessary, to pursue and shoot them down. You will also inform your men that for every deserter apprehended a reward of $30 and a month's furlough will be granted to the soldier making the arrest. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, John W. Turner, Brigadier-General and Chief of Staff. The investing army of General Grant was now fully three times as large as the defensive army of General Lee, but the morale of the latter was never better. The small force of General Early in the Shenandoah Valley was now diminished to supply General Lee's need in this dire extremity. The Confederate cavalry now in the Valley was scarce one-fourth that of the Federal cavalry. In the October report of Sheri- dan's army the effective men for duty in this arm of the service is given as 9,704, but in February we find the following: Quartermaster-General's Office, Washington, D. C, February 28, 1865. Hon. E. M. Stanton, Secretary of War, Washington, D. C. : Sir, — The great consumption of horses in the Shenandoah Valley is a most serious expense. It is reported to me that the last reports show a cavalry force in that region of a total strength, present and absent, of 26,803 men; present for duty, 11,214 rnen, and that there have been forwarded to the Shen- andoah Valley between the ist of December, 1864, and 20th of February, 1865, 8,265 cavalry horses as remounts. The government has apparently replaced the horses of three- fourths of the men present for duty in less than three months, during which time there has been no great battle. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, M. C. Meigs, Quartermaster-General and Brevet Major-General. To oppose this immense body General Rosser had some 4,000 men, and with these the enemy was successfully harassed 28o Bull Run to Bull Run, in every direction, and kept in such a constant state of alarm that General Sheridan seems to have lost his temper, and writes : Winchester, Va., December 22, 1864. Hon. E. M. Stanton, Secretary of War: Governor Boreman's telegram received. If I were to make disposition of the troops of my command in accordance with the information received from the commanders in the Depart- ment of Western Virginia, whom I have found, as a general thing, always alarming in their reports and stupid in their duties and actions, I certainly would have my hands full. I believe many of them more interested in coal oil than in the public service. It was only yesterday that Rosser was at Crab Bottom, according to their reports, on which, at the suggestion of General Crook, I sent a regiment to Beverly. It was only two or three days previous that Rosser was at Romney. They have annoyed me until, with your sanction, I would take great pleasure in bringing some of them to grief. P. H. Sheridan, Major-General. On December 20th, Sheridan sends General Custer with two brigades (Chapman's and Pennington's) up the Valley to the James river and across to Lynchburg, and General Tor- bert, with two divisions, by way of the east side of the Blue Ridge to the same destination, as will be seen by his order: Winchester, Va., December 20, 1864. Lieutenant-General Grant : Information from General Custer is to the effect that Rodes's ]3ivision has gone to Richmond, and he thinks part of Wharton's. Rosser went back toward Lynchburg, and it is said intended to go in the direction of Wythevifile. I have ordered Custer up the Valley to the James river and across to Lynchburg. 1 have ordered Torbert to edge in close to the Blue Ridge, so as to avoid the headwaters of the Rapidan, and to strike the railroad at Charlottesville, and follow up to Lynchburg, communicate with Custer, and unite with him. P. H. Sheridan, Major-General. Charles Truasell. 282 Bull Run to Bull Run. On the 2 1 St, he wires General Grant: " I heard from General Custer at Harrisonburg. He is in fine spirits, and says he will, he hopes, spend his Christmas in Lynchburg. I heard from General Torbert last night. He was then near Sperryville. The weather is so bad — rain, snow and sleet — that I feel a great deal of anxiety about the horses. There are about 8,000 men on this raid; no artillery or wagons. Hut hopes are often blasted, and so they were with Custer. He shinned before he was out of the woods, and the next communication is less buoyant, as will be seen by Sheridan's telegram to Grant of date December 22, 1864: " Creneral Custer reports that at or near Harrisonburg he encountered Rosser's Division of Cavalry, supported by Rodes's Division of Infantry, the cavalry and infantry having marched from W'aynesborough to meet him, and after a sharp fight before daylight he was obliged to come back. He cap- tured two battle-flags and 7^^ prisoners. He has not yet reported to me the particulars. The fight was between Chap- man's liri^ade of Custer's Division, and Payne's Brigade of Rosscr's cavalry. Panye's charged Chapman's camp, but Chajjman was ready for him. I have not heard from Torbert, but sent this evening to apprise him of the condition of affairs with Custer." On the 24th of December, Sheridan wires General Grant as follows: *' 1 have no information from General Torbert. Custer has sent in his report of the affair at Lacey's Springs, near Har- risonburg, between Chapman's Brigade of his division and Payne's Brigade of Rosser's. He repulsed and drove them, and there was no necessity for his return except bad weather and total absence of forage. Custer reports his loss at two killed, 22 wounded, and 20 prisoners. The fight occurred before daviight. Custer had 230 of his men frost-bitten on the expedition." Bull Run to Bull Run, 283 First' it was Rodes's Division of Infantry that caused Cus- ter's retrograde movement and the relinquishment of his boasted Christmas dinner in Lynchburg, then it was cold weather. Rodes was no nearer than Richmond, and the weather about Lynchburg many degrees warmer than either Harrisonburg or Winchester. Geese are sufficiently learned to know this, and do not travel northward in winter. We find the truth of the matter in the following report : Headquarters Army of Northern Virginia, December 27^, 1864. Hon. J. A. Seddon: On the 20th, General Early reported one division of the enemy's cavalry, under General Custer, coming up the Valley, and two divisions, under General Torbert, moving through •Chester Gap with four pieces of artillery and thirty wagons. On the 22d Rosser attacked Custer's Division, nine miles from Harrisonburg, and drove him back, capturing 40 prisoners. This morning Torbert attacked Lomax near Gordonsville, and was repulsed and severely punished. He is retiring, and Lomax preparing to follow. R. E. Lee. It is needless to add that Generals Torbert and Cust^er returned to Winchester in rather depressed spirits, and they and their commands remained quiet for some months. The loss of that Christmas dinner in Lynchburg was a sore dis- appointment to them. On the 2 1st of December, Colonel Mosby was seriously wounded while sitting at the supper-table at the house of Mr. Lake, near Rector's Cross-Roads, by a detachment of the enemy under Major Frazer. He fell from the table to the floor, and though painfully wounded, had presence of mind sufficient to pull ofif his coat and conceal it, and, when asked by the Federal soldiers for his name, replied, " Lieutenant Johnson, Sixth Virginia Cavalry." They examined his wound, pronounced it mortal, and left him lying on the floor. As soon as the enemv left the house he was taken in an ox- cart and carried to a secure retreat, where he remained until he was able to be moved, when he was taken to Charlottes- 284 Bull Run to Bull Run. ville. It is very remarkable that his fine mare, with her trap- pings, was left by the enemy, hitched in front of the house, and was saved. After the enemy had retired some 10 to 15 miles they ascertained from some papers taken from the Colonel's pocket that he was the veritable Mosby, and hastily returned to the house, but the bird had flown, and, as usual, they locked the stable when too late, as will be seen by the following communication : I exceedingly regret that such a blunder was made. I have given directions that all wounded officers and men of the enemy be hereafter brought in, although I thought any officer ought to have brains and common sense enough to do so without an order. W. Gamble, Colonel Commanding Brigade. Colonel Mosby recovered, and was back with his command in March following. Notwithstanding the large body of cavalry stationed during the winter at Winchester and vicinity. Company B main- tained its position in the neighborhood, and in various sorties and assaults killed, wounded, and captured of the enemy more than three times its own numbers, besides inflicting other losses on the enemy. CHAPTER XX. I said Fitz James was brave, As ever knight that belted glaive; Yet dare not say that now his blood Kept on its wont and tempered flood. Scott. From the last chapter it will be seen that Company B had little aptitude in monetary affairs, but greater capacity for handling mules than finances. Recognizing our natural abilities, we made another venture in the latter trade. Having rested our horses and ourselves, and received infor- mation that the Federal post at Summit Point was engaged in cutting and hauling off the timber of citizens in that vicinity, on the 19th day of December, 1864, with some 20 men, a dash was made among the wood-choppers and haulers about a half- mile west of the station, and without any resistance 20 prisoners were captured and a like number of mules and sets of harness, all in full view of the infantry force of the enemy, which, instead of coming to the rescue of their comrades, took refuge in the block-house near by, and permitted us to ride off unmolested with our booty. The boys had some fun on the retreat, at the expense of one of the prisoners. Several inches of snow covered the ground, and to expedite our march the prisoners were required to ride the captured mules. Among the number was one who gave evidence of strong rebel propensities by refusing to act as war steed for a Yankee, and scarcely had the blue-coat landed across its back when, with a hump and a few broncho jumps, he landed his burden in the snow. The fellow was rather averse to trying the steed again, but a few not very mild persuaders from our boys soon changed his mind, and he was landed on his mule, and again found himself floundering in the snow. The poor fellow now begged heartily to be excused and ex- pressed a decided preference for walking, but his scruples [285] 286 Bull Run to Bull Run. against mule-riding were soon forcibly removed, and he mounted the animal again. This time, with determined reso- lution, he clinched his feet under the mule's belly, took firm hold of the harness, and successfully resisted every effort of the beast to dislodge him, thus winning the plaudits and com- mendations of friends and foes. The booty was brought off safely, the prisoners sent South, and the mules apportioned. Christmas week was spent among friends in JeflFerson and Loudoun counties, enjoying the hospitality of a generous and patriotic people. On the 27th of December, Charlie Henderson, Willie Mason, and myself spent the night with our friend, Mr. Henry Castleman, a gentleman in whose house every Confederate soldier met a warm welcome and a royal entertainment for those times. Having spent an agreeable night, we were taking leave in the morning, when our host informed us as a profound secret that at 2 P. M. on that day he was invited to dine with some neighbors and friends at Mr. R. H. Butcher's (who lived a short distance across the field), and suggested that it might be agreeable for us to happen in th-ere about that time and enjoy a good, square meal. We gladly accepted the tempting suggestion, and promised faithfully not to betray him. The morning was passed in scouting around Summit Point in quest of an opening for a raid, and we arrived at Mr. Butcher s a little after the appointed hour, and found the neighbors, including our friend, seated at the table enjoying a royal feast. We were invited, of course, to par- take, and with as much modesty and surprise as we could assume, accepted. The Federal cavalry were in the daily habit of making scouts in this neighborhood, and the host and his guests were apprehensive lest we should be discovered at the banquet and occasion the arrest and imprisonment of the whole party. This fear produced a very unappetizing effect upon them all, except our friend, Mr. Castleman, who seemed really to enjoy the situation and the discomfiture of his neighbors. Filling ourselves, like camels about to cross Leonidaa Teamey. 2po Bull Run to Bull Run. his vigilance, advantage was taken of it, and the first shot obtained. Our little fracas caused considerable commotion in the neighborhood, and we rested on our laurels that night at the home of a widow lady near by, who " showed us no little kindness." She had visiting her at the time a niece from New York. In the morning I found my hat decorated with a magnificent black plume — the ne plus ultra of a young cavalryman's aspirations — which was worn to the close of the conflict. That young lady after the war married a gallant Confederate officer. Christmas, 1864, was spent by our boys among their rela- tives and friends in Jefferson and Clarke, and the Christmas turkey, mince-pie, and egg-nog were not wanting. Although our hosts had been plundered many times in the past few months, their larders resembled the Scriptural widow's barrel of meal and cruse of oil, and diminished not by frequent use in a good cause. The vigilance required to insure safety from near-by foes and their frequent scouts gave zest and relish to our appetites. The girls — bright, beautiful, charming girls — were abundant, and acted their part nobly, and if a suscepti- ble soldier now and then had a couple or more sweethearts, the fault was pardonable, as the temptation was irresistible. The girls understood the situation as well as the boys, and patriotism frequently impelled them to court more than one champion. I remember, while camping on the banks of the Rapidan, two members of the company, boon companions, one bearing the surname and the other the Christian name of the hero who was '' first in peace, first in war, and first in the hearts of his countrymen," being enamoured of a charming young lady of that vicinity bearing the name of one of our distin- guished jurists. The two comrades compared notes and ascertained that each occupied the first place in the lady's esteem and affection. There was no challenge, no duel, not even an unpleasant ripple on the even tenor of their relations, Bull Run to Bull Run, 2gi and each continued to enjoy the lady's entertainment and hospitality. But the brightest flowers must fade, and these happy hours were suddenly terminated by orders to move. The time allotted for preparation for this step was short, and would not afford opportunity for separate visits, so the twain called together to impart the sad news and bid adieu. Matters were arranged between the comrades on the way over. When the hitching-posts were reached, one of the horses failed to be fastened, and the suitors entered the house and were cordially greeted. The mission was explained, and many regrets ex- pressed. Just then attention was called to the loose horse, and its owner proceeded to catch and fasten it. While absent, the other took advantage of the situation, bade farewell, and no doubt with ardor and affection. The loose horse was tied and the tied horse loosed, and the three were scarcely again seated before attention was directed to the loose horse, and its owner hastily repaired to the yard to secure it, and the remainderman improved the golden opportunity. When the absent returned, both bade a formal adieu and went on their way rejoicing in the happy moments and the square meals enjoyed, and the girl we left behind was happy, too, with the pleasing thought that she had made assurance doubly sure, and if one should be taken the other would be left. These little episodes were " Sunny islands in our stormy main, Spots of azure in our clouded sky." During the winter the Yankees learned the abode of all of our boys' sweethearts, and frequently laid in wait to catch the unwary Leanders as they sought to steal a visit. The girls ought to have highly appreciated these calls, for, if caught, the charge would be recruiting within the lines, the poor fellow would be found guilty, and the death penalty inflicted. Such warring was not only ungallant and unchivalrous, b] uncivilized, and not in accord with that noble humj played by President Lincoln when he set aside the fii 2^2 Bull Run to Bull Run. " giiilty '' of one of his courts-martial in the case of a young prisoner captured on a visit to his lady-love (but basely charged with recruiting within the lines) on the distinct ground '* that he was satisfied from the evidence there was a woman in the scrape and the conduct of the young man pardonable." Indeed, Abraham Lincoln was a notable man. Before and during the war, as a mere boy, I had failed to appreciate his true greatness. Opinions were then based on prejudice rather than reason. Both by birth and education I was thoroughly imbued with the idea that nothing good could come out of the Northern Nazareth, certainly not in the shape of " Abolitionist," a name applied to adherents of the Republican party. It was not until that war "was ended and Mr. Lincoln dead that his character could be calmly and dispassionately studied and understood. He was a man of wonderful goodness, sagacity, and foresight. As a soldier, he would have been a great general. In divining the move- ments of his opponents, his conclusions were more accurate and far in advance of his military leaders in the field. While there were apparent inconsistencies in his life, they can be reconciled, when they are critically examined, and his per- sonal acts, which are purely his own, and his official acts, which in a large degree emanated from the head and heart of his ministers and advisers, are separated and analyzed. He always leaned to the side of mercy and humanity, and his faults, if faults they were, may be attributed to overzeal in this direction. Certainly, if he did not fully comprehend the fatherhood of God, he realized to its fullest extent the brother- hood of man. My judgment as to the character of Mr. Lincoln is not founded so much on the writings of biographers (for such testimony must always be received with many grains of allow- ance), as upon his conduct and actions through those four years of severe trial. He emerged from that conflict a great man. His death was a serious loss to the entire country — greater to the South than to the North. Wm. S- ThomBon. CHAPTER XXI. Singing through the forests, Rattling over ridges. Shooting under arches, Rumbling over bridges, Whizzing through the mountains. Buzzing o'er the vale. Bless me, this' is pleasant, Riding on the rail! 8€UB€. About the first of the new year (1865) the company was ordered to report to the command, then encamped near Swope's Depot, some five miles west of Staunton, and, with sad hearts, we bade adieu to our friends in the lower Valley and joined our regiment. We found sufficiency of food neither for ourselves or our horses. The weather was bitter cold, and the ground was covered with snow. After hunger- ing and shivering in this camp some three weeks, we were again ordered to the lower Valley. General Sheridan was still at Winchester, and his name recalls to my mind Byron's Corsair — " He left a Corsair's name to other times^ Linked with one virtue and a thousand crimes." The character of the warfare waged by this commander can be best learned from his own orders, a few of which follow here: Kernstown, Va., November 26, 1864. Major-General H. W. Halleck: I will soon commence work on Mosby. Heretofore! have made no attempt to track him up, as I would have employed ten men to his one, and for the reason that I have made a scape-goat of him for the destruction of private rights. Now, there is going to be an intense hatred of him in that portion [294] Bull Run to Bull Run. 2^5 of the Valley which is nearly a desert. I will soon commence on Loudoun county, and let them know there is a God in Israel. Mosby has annoyed me considerably, but the people are beginning to see that he does not injure me a great deal, but causes a loss to them of all they have spent their lives in accumulating. Those people who live in the vicinity of Harper's Ferry are the most villainous in this Valley, and have not yet been hurt much. If the railroad is interfered with I will make some of them poor. Those who live at home in peace and plenty want the duello part of this war to go on, but when they have to bear this burden by loss of property and comforts they will cry for peace. P. H. Sheridan, Major-General. This, which could not be excelled by Weyler, was written by Sheridan after laying waste not only the Valley, but Fau- quier and southern Loudoun. He did not frighten us, but drove us to desperation and retaliation. On the nig'ht of the 23d of January, having received information that several stores were operated in Shepherdstown under Federal per- mits, with some 30 men we entered the town, and sacked the stores, bringing off many articles useful and necessary for the men, their families, and sweethearts. As these stores would not sell their goods to rebels or rebel families, and were barred to us and ours, they were legal subjects of cap- ture and confiscation. General Sheridan heard of this raid, and on the 25th wired General Stevenson : " One of my scouts from Shepherdstown reports that 40 rebels entered that place a few nights ago and robbed two stores. Have you any facts in the case, and is it best to allow stores to be opened there?'' And General Stevenson replied : *'A party of rebel soldiers and citizens did rob a store at Shepherdstown of a small amount of gogds. I saw the party robbed, who promised to furnish me the names of the parties engaged. My information is that the robbery was committed 2^6 Bull Run to Bull Run. by some rebel soldiers and citizens, and not by a party organized for a raid. There are but two or three stores and with small stocks." This dispatch from Stevenson seems to have stirred the wrath of " Little Phil," for he immediately wires Stevenson: "If you find any citizen harboring or abetting these robber bands in your district, drive off all their stock and burn all their grain. There are certainly some such people about Shepherdstown and its vicinity." Suffice it to say the goods were safely brought through the enemy's lines, and served to gladden the hearts and homes of our lady friends. I regret to mention that this raid cost Com- rades Sadler and F. J. Manning, after the war, under radical justice, about $500 each — dear pay for their portion of the spoil ! After resting for a few days we were apprised by one of our scouts that a Federal paymaster would pass west on the Baltimore and Ohio express on the night of February 3d, and as our boys had not received any pay for some time, we thought this a golden opportunity to get a little remunera- tion. Gathering together about 30 men, we crossed the Shenandoah at Keyes's Ford, passed the enemy's lines be- tween Halltown and Harper's Ferry, and reached the line of the Baltimore and Ohio just east of Duffield's about 10 P. M. Our horses were fastened about 500 yards from the railroad, and we proceeded on foot to the track to make preparations. The rails of the Baltimore and Ohio at that time were, bolted together with wooden pieces, or stringers, and as we had no wrenches, we found it impossible to separate them. We prized up one side of the track, stayed it with ties, and laid down to await the expected train. A good, soft place had been selected, to minimize the damage to life on the train as much as possible. A few moments after finishing our pre- parations a guard came along, and was taken in without Bull Run to Bull Run. ^P7 trouble or noise, as troops were stationed at short distances on either side. Our waiting was not long; the rumble was heard in the distance; nearer and nearer it came, until the iron horse with his fiery head appeared in full view. All were eager and excited. The prize seemed in our grasp. The engine struck the obstruction; a great crash followed, and the train stopped. But, alas! it was only a special freight, running on express time. Our financial hopes were again blasted. The train was ransacked, abundance of wine, cham- pagne, beer, and other drinks, with cakes, candies, coflfees, sugar, oysters and other eatables wer found ^nd taken in possession as far as our capacities would allow. Some of the boys got rather to much of the liquids, and trouble was appre- hended, if opposition should be encountered on our return. The men loaded themselves and their horses, some carrying as much as a sack of coffee, and we began our retreat. As the enemy's line had been crossed on our way over between Halltown and Harper's Ferry, it was prudent to pass back in the vicinity of Charlestown, and consequently we passed just east of that town, took the Kabletown road and recrossed the river at Myer's Ford. How well and wisely we planned will be seen from the Federal report : Baltimore, Md., February 4, 1865. Hon. Edwin M. Stanton, Secretary of War : I feel it my duty to report that 38 rebels were again per- mitted last night to throw ofif and rob a train, breaking the engine and cars, within three and a half miles of Harper's Ferry, in the immediate vicinity of the recent similar attack. May I ask that such instruction be given the commandant at Harper's Ferry as will prevent these frequent raids upon the road at points that can be certainly defended? The locality which has been so repeatedly attacked and about which special vigilance is required is where the road from Charles- town to Shepherdstown intersects our line. John W. Garrett. 29^ Bull Run to Bull Run. Secretary Stanton then wires General Sheridan : War Department, Washington, D. C, February 4, 1865. Major-General Sheridan : Another train was thrown off the track and robbed last night within three and a half miles of Harper's Ferry, in the immediate vicinity of a recent occurrence of like kind. I am apprehensive that General Stevenson is not sufficiently vigi- lant. The point of intersection of the roads from Charlestown with Shepherdstown, it seems to me, ought to be better guarded than has been done by Stevenson. Will you please give this matter attention? The interruption of trains there seems to be chronic, and may spread if not checked. Edwin M. Stanton, Secretary of War. General Sheridan seems to cast all the blame on Colonel Reno, and sends him this tart telegram: Charlestown, W. Va., February 4, 1865. Colonel M. A. Reno: The country in your vicinity and out for a distance of ten miles is full of Confederate soldiers. With a regiment as strong as yours you should be able to capture many of them, and I will look to you to do so. At every house where you make a capture drive oflF all stock except one milch-cow, and notify the people that I will put them out of my lines and let their rebel friends take care of them. P. H. Sheridan, Major-General. Colonel Reno re|X)rts as follows: Sir: 1 have the honor to report that the party which ran the train off the track on the Baltimore and Ohio railroad, crossed at or near Keyes's Ford; had timely information of this crossing and their whereabouts, and would have Suc- ceeded in capturing some of them had my orders beeii obeyed. About 10 P. M. I sent out two parties under command of Lieutenants Guild and Chase. These parties were about 50 strong. Lieutenant Chase was ordered with his command to cover the roads leading to different fords through Bloomery. Lieutenant Guild was ordered to overtake and head off the Richard Tlmberlake. J 00 Bull Run to Bull Run, party, attack them and drive them back. After he left camp, instead of following them up he thought he had better move towards the river, the diametrically opposite direction from his orders. Lieutenant Chase, with good reason, did not expect our men in that direction, and fired into Lieutenant Guild's command. I regret to say that one man. Private Hogeland, Company D, was wounded. I have placed Lieu- tenant Guild in arrest, and now report him for immediate dismissal, as he is solely responsible for the miscarriage of my plans. I do not design that he be court-martialed, as that would occupy more time than he is worth. He is entirely unfit for a commission, inasmuch as he takes no pains to improve himself, nor does he study to render himself worthy of his position. He, although never what you could charge as drunkenness, is always full, and when not stupefied with whiskey, he is with opium. His performance last night is sufficient evidence to hang him. As far as I can learn, the rebels numbered about 30 men. M. A. Reno, Colonel Commanding Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry. General Stevenson sent the above report to General Sheri- dan, and says: '* I forwarded you yesterday Colonel Reno's report of the party and the way in which he did not catch him." Poor Guild was the scape-goat. After the capture we passed back within a half-mile of Colonel Reno's camp, and in a quarter of a mile of Lieutenant Chase's company, and they must have been stupefied also. A few days after this raid General Sheridan sent a regiment of cavalry to Duffield's with the following orders : Headquarters Cavalry Corps, February 5, 1865. Brigadier-General T. C. Devin : General, — The General Commanding directs that you will detail a strong regiment to take position at Duffield's Station, or as near that point as practicable, on the Baltimore and Ohio railroad, with instructions to protect the road in that vicinity. That neighborhood has of late been infested with guerrillas and men from the rebel army who are visiting their Bull Run to Bull Run, joi friends, getting clothes, plundering, etc. These men have of late committed depredations on the railroad, throwing trains off the track, and robbing passengers. The commanding officer will make dispositions to prevent this in future in that vicinity. He will send out parties to scour the country and dispose of the lawless ruffians who are committing the out- rages spoken of. No quarter will be given these persons who have destroyed by their actions the right to be treated as prisoners of war. When a guerrilla is found on a plantation, or at a habitation, the fences, etc., of the farm will be de- stroyed, and the citizens generally will be given to understand that if they continue to harbor these villains they will be turned from their houses and sent through our lines. The regiment will seek an eligible cantonment near Duffield's Station, and construct shelter for men and horses. Supplies will be drawn from Duffield's Station. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. F. Hayden, Assistant Adjutant-General. If men in the discharge of their duty as soldiers, endeavor- ing to break the enemy's line of communication and cut off his supplies are to be treated as lawless ruffians and villains, has the vocabulary a name foul enough for the infamy of the man who burned the houses, barns, and grain of inoffending citizens, women, and children, and boasted himself that a crow in passing over this waste would have to carry his rations? In execution of his fiendish purpose, and on ac- count of the capture of two members of our company (mere boys), who had gone home to see their mothers, he issued General McMillan this order: " I want you to send to the house of Mrs. Alexander, where the guerrillas James Washington and Herbert Alexander were captured, and drive off all stock except one milch-cow, and bum every rail on the Claymont farm as a punishment for harboring guerrillas, notify the people in that vicinity that I will destroy every farm and drive off all stock wherever I find them harboring guerrillas, and put the people outside my lines in the direction of Richmond. Report the execution of this order, P. H. Sheridan, Major-General. ^02 Bull Run to Bull Run, Sheridan was afraid that General McMillan had a heart that could feel, and the imperious mandate of humanity would alleviate the severity of his order, if not cause it to be ignored, and he therefore requires McMillan to report its execution. Claymont at the date of this order was occupied by defence- less ladies, and this was known to Sheridan when he indited his order, as is shown on the face of the order itself. Just a short time previous to the capture of Washington and Alexander, John E. Boyd, of Berkeley county, had been taken prisoner by one of Sheridan's scouting parties, and on the day of his capture this order was issued : general orders no. 8. Headquarters Middle Military Division, January 12, 1865. A Confederate soldier, giving his name as John E. Boyd, caught within the lines of the army under circumstances which leave no doubt that he is a spy of the enemy's, and his manner since capture confirming this, the said John E. Boyd will at 12 o'clock, meridian, to-morrow, January 13, 1865, or as soon thereafter as practicable, be hung by the neck until he is dead. The Provost-Marshal-General of this army is charged with the execution of this order. By command of Major-General Sheridan. C. KiNGSBERRY, Jr., Assistant Adjutant- General. In the practice of my profession, in the progress of a mur- der trial, the duty was devolved on me of asking for a con- tinuance of the case, on the ground that the indictment had just been returned and the prisoner had not sufficient time to prepare his defence. The court, in overruling the motion, said, " The Constitution guaranteed the prisoner a speedy trial, and he zvas going to give it to him.'' Sheridan in that case not only invoked this provision of the Constitution as interpreted by the learned judge, but he eliminated also the right of trial, either by jury or drum-head court-martial. I am glad, how- ever, to state that our friend escaped the execution of this Bull Run to Bull Run, 505 vicious order, and is alive to-day, enjoying the good things of this life, while his would-be assassin has gone where he will receive the just reward of his actions. Washington and Alexander, at the time of their capture (about eighteen years of age, mere frail boys), were cast into a cold, damp, and cheerless dungeon at Fort McHenry, and so cruelly and inhumanly treated that in a few weeks death relieved them of their sufferings. They were near kinsmen, and now lie buried near each other in the old Episcopal churchyard in Charlestown. On the grave-stone of the former is the simple inscription : James C. Washington, Born Sept. 14, 1847; Died February 28, 1865. " God is Love." And on the grand monument of his murderer should be in contrast the fitting epitaph : The Devil is Hate. It was now evident the Confederacy was nearing its end. Our army, without means of recuperation and without pro- visions and forage, was perishing from internal causes, and the men who had fought so gallantly for four years were now so dispirited that much of its vigor was lost, and it became an easy prey to the enemy. On February 27th, General Sheridan, with the First and Third divisions of his cavalry, thoroughly equipped for the trip, left Winchester, marched south by w^ay of the Valley turnpike, and reached Staunton on March 2d, without material opposition. From Staunton he moved to Waynesbo- rough, where he encountered the remnant of General Early's army, and after a short contest completely routed it, cap- turing about 1,000 prisoners, and its artillery and wagon- train. Sheridan then moved to Charlottesville, down to the James river, north of Richmond. From thence he marched jo^ Bull Run to Bull Run. to Hanover Courthouse, and round to the James below Rich- mond, crossed the river and joined Grant. A number of like expeditions, with Lynchburg as the objective point, had failed, because our army had men to oppose, but now we were helpless. General Merritt, in his report, says : " Thus was completed a campaign which for brilliancy of conception and perfect success in execution has never been equalled in the operations of cavalry in this or any other country. The results attest the importance of the service per- formed. The remnant of Early's famous Army of the Valley, which, less than a year before had environed the capital of the country, was captured or dispersed; his artillery, trains, correspondence and baggage in our hands. Two railroads and one canal, immense arteries of supply for the rebel Army of Northern Virginia, were completely disabled, and millions of dollars' worth of rebel property, contraband of war, was destroyed or used for the command. The rapidity of our march over roads rendered almost impassable by heavy rains, which rendered the crossing of each petty creek a work of great labor and time, was truly marvellous, and led the enemy completely astray as to our movements. Over 350 miles were marched by the main body of the command, some parts of which made over 500 miles. Over 2,000 prisoners were taken, 18 pieces of artillery and a large number of arms, and many stand of colors. These are some of the substantial fruits of the expedition, which, while it inflicted immense damage on the Army of Northern Virginia, introduced for the first time to many of the responsible people of Vii^;inia the stem realities of the wicked war they themselves had sought." Indeed, General, many an old Confederate and his horse who had been denied a morsel from the full meat-houses and corn-cribs of the people of Albemarle, rejoiced when they were opened at your command, " Sesame." These people had not seen the enemy until you appeared in their midst, and then S. D. Timberlake. ^o6 Bull Run to Bull Run, they realized the value and worth of their defenders. Your sabers forced a generosity that would not respond to the ear- nest appeals of hunger and famine. But, General, your march was through the Confederate graveyard, and you needed only to whistle to keep up your courage; the bones of soldiery could do you no harm. The army had indeed knocked at the gates of your capital, but what you met at Waynesborough was only its remains, and the baggage capture of which you boast was as valueless as the formal dedication of the penni- less groom, who solemnly says to his bride " with all my worldly goods I thee endow." How great in contrast was the conduct and character of Generals Grant and Sheridan. General Grant never made war on defenceless people. There may have been depreda- tions committed by his army in violation of his general orders, but the commanders were held to account and the offending parties punished, if caught. With Sheridan, however, his inferior officers and men were more humane than the General himself, and frequently refused to execute his orders. In comparison with orders of Sheridan I give one emanating from General Grant. General Wilson, just prior to the fight at Sappony Church, had been on a raid through Southern Virginia, and his men had committed many depredations in violation of general orders and the usages of civilized warfare. In justice to General Wilson, I must say I am satisfied he disapproved of such conduct, and this is shown by his orders before and his reports after the raid. The conduct of General Wilson's men was brought to the notice of General Grant through a copy of a Richmond paper that fell into his hands, and he writes General \Mlson : Headquarters Army of the Potomac, July I, 1864. Brigadier-General J. H. Wilson, Commanding Third Cavalry Division: (icneral — I am directed by the Major-General command- Bull Run to Bull Run. J07 ing to invite your attention to the editorial article in the Richmond Examiner (copy herewith), commenting on your recent expedition. The commanding General cannot believe the statements of the article are well founded, but as the case of alleged depredations are in several instances cited with particularity,, he deems it due to you as the commander of the expedition that you shall be made acquainted with the serious charges against its management set forth in the article in question, and be allowed an opportunity of denying them; and he also desires to have your report, so that he may be prepared to promptly answer any ofificial call that may be made upon him for information touching the allega- tions, should the matter hereafter be brought to his notice. I am also directed to transmit to you in this connection a copy of General Orders No. 24, of the 27th ultimo, from these headquarters, republishing orders heretofore, relative to seizure of property; and in view of the orders in force in this army upon the subject, the commanding General is reluctant to conclude that they have been violated in your command by the seizure of property not recognized as legitimately liable to capture or by the appropriation of property seized to private purposes. The commanding General wishes you to have at once a thorough inspection made of your command with a view to ascertain whether any of the ofificers or men have in their possession any plate, watches, etc., taken under the circumstances in the editorial. I am, very respectfully, your obedient, S. Williams, Assistant Adjutant-General. "The evil that men do, lives after them; The good is often interred with their bones. CHAPTER XXII. The harp that once through Tara's halls The soul of music shed, Now hangs as mute on Tara's walls As if that soul were fled. So sleeps the pride of former days, So glory's thrill is o'er, And hearts that once beat high for praise, Now feel that pulse no more. Moore. February, 1865, like the preceding month, was intensely cold, and both sides were busily engaged in keeping warm and comfortable. March followed with more genial skies, and the armies began to stir. General Sheridan having moved from Winchester, with two divisions of cavalry, joined General Grant's army around Petersburg. General Hancock succeeded him in command, and made new arrangment of military posts, and some days were spent by us in familiar- izing ourselves with the situation. On March 13th, with seven men, we crossed the Shenan- doah, then much swollen, swimming our horses, struck the Berryville turnpike, a mile south of Charlestown, about 10 P. M., and moved cautiously in the direction of the town, then garrisoned as a Federal post. At the toll-gate, then located within the present corporation limits, we were halted by the enemy's picket, a single soldier, who demanded, ''Who comes there?" I responded, "Friend to Abe Lin- coln.'' The picket then replied, "Advance and give the countersign." Advancing until within a few feet of him, I discovered he was covering me with his gun. I realized that a ruse de guerre was necessary. I was riding at the time a little sorrel horse, Jeb, an almost perfect cavalry steed, learned in many accomplishments, who would rear whenever desired. [308] Bull Run to Bull Run, ^op This picket was on the alert, and I must divert his attention. A stroke on the neck, and Jeb rose on his hind legs, and as he did so, I shouted, " Take down your gun, you frighten my horse/' Down it went, and in a second my pistol was at his head, with a demand, '' Surrender, you son-of-a-gun/' This was my favorite salute to the Yankees on such occasions, and was as near swearing as anything I did during the war, and I believe it had as much effect as something stronger. The soldier's gun dropped on the ground, and up went his hands. My comrades now coming up, the countersign was demanded of the prisoner and given to us without hesitation. Death was the penalty threatened if it proved to be wrong. The prisoner then directed us to the next post westward, where the coun- tersign proved genuine, and this picket also was gathered in. The town was surrounded with a cordon of pickets, and the full circuit was made and all the posts relieved without trouble or alarm until the last was reached. This post was just east of the one first taken, on the hill in rear of the Academy. As my recollection now serves me, there were with me on this occasion. Douglas Mason, Howard Kerfoot (now the distinguished Baptist divine), Jim and Shannon Gallaher, Ike Anderson, Bob North, and Willie Johnson. The pickets up to this one had been relieved by me without the least difficulty. Doug. Mason requested and was granted permission to relieve this last fellow, as I apprehended no danger. When a halt was demanded and the sentinel's in- quiry had been answered, "Friends, with countersign,'' Mason rode forward at the demand, "Advance and give counter- sign," until close to his man, when he was ordered to dis- mount. As this fellow was evidently more cautious than his fellows a little apprehension was felt for Mason's safety, and the next moment was awaited with suspense. Suddenly two shots rang out simultaneously on the night air, breaking the solemn stillness of the hour. Dashing up, I found Mason and the Yankee lying on the ground. Mason shot through the shoulder and the Yankee through the stomach. No disturb- ^10 Bull Run to Bull Run, ance had been made until the encounter with this picket, but now the alarm was given, and a speedy retreat was necessary, as the reserve would soon be upon us. Putting Mason on his horse, I started south on the Berryville turnpike, Mason, prisoners and small guard in front, and some three or four in rear to protect them. The enemy pursued only a short dis- tance, and very cautiously. Halting at each favorable point, the advance was greeted with a little volley, which seems from the enemy's account not to have been without effect. After passing Roper's Hill the pursuit seems to have been abandoned, and Mason was taken into Mr. Milburn's house on the Frame (now Burns) farm, his wound dressed and bound. Our retreat was then continued to Clarke and Warren counties, and the prisoners sent to Gordonsville. The enemy's report of this affair, contained in the following: dispatches, is very meagre : Headquarters Middle Military Division, March 15, 1865. General Stevenson, Harper's Ferry: General Hancock wishes to know whether there is any truth in the report that the guerrillas attacked some of your pickets the other night, killing one of Reno's men. C. H. Morgan, Brevet Brigadier-General. Harper's Ferry, March 15, 1865. Brigadier-General Morgan, Chief Df Staff: On the evening of the 13th instant a party of guerrillas attacked one of Reno's picket posts, killing one man and wounding two others. John D. Stevenson, Brigadier-General. The streams continuing swollen, operations were suspended for some weeks. On the 5th of April, at North Fork Church, in Loudoun county, Colonel Mosby, who had recovered from his wound and returned to his command, organized another company (H), and the following officers were elected : George Baylor, captain; Edward F.Thompson, first lieutenant; James G. Wiltshire, second lieutenant; and B. Frank Carter, third lieutenant. Bull Run to Bull Run. ^ii The mode of this election was unique and novel, and would do credit to the Sachem of Tammany. Colonel Mosby was present, and the men were drawn up in line facing him. The men were mostly personally unknown to me, and how a lot of strangers were going to elect me their captain was an enigma my juvenile brain could not solve. But Colonel Mosby had promised I should be captain, and I had abiding faith in him, so I remained near by to see how it would be accomplished. At that time I was young and little versed in politics and the ways of the heathen Chinee. Colonel Mosby then called attention, and said, " Men, I nominate George Baylor, of Jeflferson county, captain of this company." He did not wait for a second, but continued, "All in favor of Baylor as captain, say aye." There was a feeble response along the line, and much apprehension was felt by me to hear the negatives, but no opportunity was afforded the negatives, and proclamation was immediately made by the Colonel, " George Baylor is unanimously chosen captain.'' The other officers were elected in the same extraordinary way, and the Colonel pronounced the company ready for service, and ordered me to take it on a scout to Jefferson and baptize it. The^ company numbered about 50 men, and were well mounted and equipped. According to the Mosby custom, I disbanded the company for the night, with orders to meet next morning at Snickersville. The company met according to order, and, crossing the Shenandoah at Snicker's Ferry, moved off in the direction of Charlestown. On the way I learned that the Loudoun Rangers were camped near Mill- ville (Keyes Switch, as it was then called), and that most of the Federal cavalry had gone up the Valley. The Loudoun Rangers were two companies composed of men from Lou- doun county and the neighboring country, and Mosby's men had long been desirous of capturing them. Here was the opportunity : a regiment of infantry was camped just east of Halltown, picketing down to the river, and it was necessary to pass through this line of infantry pickets to reach the 2 12 Bull Run to Bull Run. Rangers' camp. The infantry picket was approached about lo A. M., saluted, and passed without molestation, our men keeping perfectly in rank, and making no effort to capture or disturb them. This picket very politely gave us the usual military salute — '* present arms " — but some of our boys, who took a sly glance at them, say it was the most tremulous salute they ever witnessed. Having safely passed the infantry picket line, we rode quietly to within fifty yards of the Rangers' camp, and seeing them in their cavalry tents, horses tied to stakes, and engaged in various diversions, ordered a charge. They outnumbered our force two to one, but we were playing a bold game, and the bold game generally wins in war as well as in cards. With two jacks and the joker in our hands, our opponents must yield. A general flurry and commotion followed our charge. A few seemed disposed to fight, but most to surrender. A few shots soon quieted the more pugilistic. Some ran for the bushes and made good their escape, but the greater part were made prisoners. The loss of the enemy was two killed, four wounded, 65 prisoners, 81 horses and equipments; our loss, one wounded, Frank Helm, of Warrenton. This was a pretty good beginning for Company H, yet scarce two days old, and it felt proud of its achievement. Gathering up the prisoners, horses and equip- ments, the tents and wagons were fired, and Company H rode off, while the Federal infantry in full view were sound- ing the " long roll '' and falling into line. The river was crossed at Keyes's Ford, and pursuit was not attemoted by the enemy. Since writing the foregoing I have seen a volume entitled " Loudoun Rangers/' writen by Briscoe Goodhart, who claims to have been a member of that command, and found therein the following account of. the affair: "April the 6th, the command, or rather what few were at the camp, were taking their ease, when a bo^ of about 250 men in blue uniform approached from the northwest, or the Charlestown turnpike. Little attention was given, as it was James T. TrusselL jj^ Bull Run to Bull Run. supposed this was a body of Custer's Cavalry, that was known to be in the Valley. The column came up to less than fifty yards, when they dashed into our • camp, capturing the majority of the few that were there. This force proved to be Mosby's command, who thus approached our camp under the guise of Federal troops. We had about 20 broken-down horses in camp, and most of them were taken. As they undertook to recross the Shenandoah river our pickets that were stationed there in charge of George V. Kern, opened fire on them, wounding several. One picket, Frank Kidwelly of Company B, was dangerously wounded and left on the field for dead. Richmond having fallen into Federal hands, these prisoners were kept in custody by Mosby about one week and paroled.'' This statement is very incorrect, probably because the author was not present on this occasion. Our m-en did not exceed 50. The company had only been organized the day before, and its ranks were far from full. Neither is it true that we wore blue uniforms. I remember that when the camp of the Rangers was entered, David Mohler, orderly sergeant of the company; Lieutenant Wiltshire (now Dr. James G. Wiltshire, of Baltimore), and myself wxre riding in front, and were all dressed in grey uniforms, and while there may have been an occasional blue overcoat, I know that the men gen- erally wore Confederate attire. I am impressed with the fact of Wiltshire's presence in front by an incident then occurring. As the company was new and untried, I thought possibly some of the men might fall back if stubborn resistance was made by the enemy, so I directed Wiltshire to repair to the rear and see that the men kept closed up. He very feelingly replied : '' Captain, don't send me to the rear; I am not accus- tomed to occupy that place when there is a fight before us.'*^ I fully appreciated his disinclination and did not further insist. We did approach very near before assuming a hostile attitude. We sailed into that camp much like Dewey sailed into the harbor of Manila, fully resolved to whip these Yankees, or Bull Run to Bull Run. ^75 get an awful whipping ourselves. I am fully aware that these Rangers were surprised and taken at great disadvantage, but the fact is they greatly outnumbered us. Some of them were at the river near by fishing and escaped in the undergrowth, as did also a portion of those in camp, but some 65 men were taken prisoners, and the Loudoun Rangers thereafter ceased to exist. The horses there captured were not broken down^ but among the finest taken during the war. A fine grey horse, the property of Captain Grubb, then commanding the Rangers, was presented by Company H to Colonel Mosby, and a fine bay mare was retained and ridden by me, and the residue divided among the company, while a dozen or so were restored to their lawful owners, from whom they had been recently taken. General Stevenson, commanding at Harper's Ferry, and under whose orders the Loudoun Rangers were acting, on the same day of the capture wires General Hancock at Win- chester as follows : Harper's Ferry, April 6, 1865. Mosby surprised the camp of the Loudoun Rangers near Keves's Ford and cleaned them out. He made the attack about 10 A. M. I have sent out some infantry. When I get a report I will send you particulars. John D. Stevenson, Brigadier-General. Does this sustain Air. Goodhart's version of the affair? General Hancock, in his official report of this affair, says: " On the 6th of April, a body of Mosby's guerrillas sur- prised the camp of the Loudoun Rangers, near Charlestown, capturing a number of men and nearly all their horses." Is this the language of a general reporting the capture of a few broken-down horses? Lieutenant-Colonel D. R. Clendenin, of the Eighth Illinois Cavalry, who was scouting through Loudoun county about this time, in his report, says : *' On the 6th, 40 Federal prisoners passed through Upper- J^^ Bull Run to Bull Run. ville, having been taken by Mosby's men, near Harper's Fern-. These prisoners were reported to belong to the Lou- doun Rangers." Major Scott, who wrote in 1867, " Partisan Life with Mosby," when these events were fresh in the mind, and all the actors on l>oth sides in being and accessible, says : " He CBaylor) took the precaution to pass in between Hall- town (where there was a brigade of infantry) and the camp. When within fifty yards of the Loudoun Rangers, the order to charge was^iven. Two of them \vere killed, four wounded, and 65 taken prisoners, together with 81 horses with their equipments. The rest of the command sought refuge in the bushes. The only loss which Baylor sustained was Frank Helm, of Warrenton, who was wounded as he charged among the foremost into the camp. When Major-General Hancock, so distinguished in the Federal Army, heard of Baylor's exploit, he laughed heartily, and exclaimed, * Well, that is the last of the Loudoun Rangers.' " It is the province of the true historian to sift the truth from conflicting statements, and the reader may form his own con- clusions as to this affair ! It may be of interest to some readers to know from whence sprang " Mosby's men," and how they lived and maintained themselves within the enemy's lines. Until the early spring of 1863, Mosby's command had no regular organization, and although its chief had no real title, he was generally known as " Captain Mosby," a private in the First Virginia Cavalry, on scouting duty for General Stuart. About the 12th of March, Mosby made a daring raid on General Stoughton, at Fairfax Courthouse, l)rought himself into prominence before his superiors, and was honored by the following general order : Headquarters Cavalry Division, March 12, 1863. Captain John S. Mosby has for a long time attracted the attention of his generals by his boldness, skill, and success, so Bull Run to Bull Run. ^ij signally displayed in his numerous forays upon the invaders of his native State. None know his daring enterprise and dashing heroism better than the foul invaders, though strangers themselves to such noble traits. His late brilliant exploit — the capture of Brigadier- General Stoughton, United States army, two captains, 30 other prisoners, together with arms, equipments, and 58 horses, justifies this recognition in general orders. The feat, unparalleled in the war, was performed in the midst of the enemy's troops at Fairfax Courthouse without loss or injury. The gallant band of Cap- tain Mosby share the glory as they did the danger of this enterprise, and are worthy of such a leader. J. E. B. Stuart, Major-General Commanding. A short time after this adventure, Mosby received the fol- lowing : Army of Northern Virginia, March 2^^, 1863. Captain John S. Mosby : Captain, — You will perceive from the copy of the order herewith inclosed, that the President has appointed you Captain of Partisan Rangers. The General commanding directs me to say that you proceed at once to organize your company, with the understanding that it be placed on a foot- ing with all troops of the line, and to be mustered uncondi- tionally into the Confederate service for and during the war. Though you are to be its captain, the men will have the privi- lege of electing the lieutenants, so soon as its numbers reach the legal standard. You will report your progress from time to time, and when the requisite number of men are enrolled, an officer will be designated to muster the company into service. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. H. Taylor, Assistant Adjutant-General. On the 20th of March, General Stuart writes : Dear Captain : I inclose your evidence of appointment by the President in the Provisional Army of the Confederate States. You will perceive by General's Lee accompanying instructions, that you will be continued in your present sphere J/5 Bull Run to Bull Run. of conduct and enterprise, and already a captain, you will proceed to organize a band of permanent followers for the war, but by all means ignore the term ** Partisan Rangers." It is in bad repute. Call your men " Mosby's Regulars," and it will give a tone and meaning and solid worth which all the world will soon recognize, and you will inscribe that name of a fearless band of heroes on the pages of our country's history and enshrine it in the hearts of a grateful people. Let " ^Mosby's Regulars " be a name of pride with friends and respectful trepidation with enemies. You will have to be very much on your guard against in- corporating into your command deserters from other branches of the service. Insist on the most unequivocal evidence of honorable discharge in all cases. Non-conscripts under and over age will be very advantageous. Their entry into service nuist be unconditional, excepting that you are their captain, and their lieutenants to be chosen by the men, provided no unworthy man be chosen. As there is no time within which you are required to raise this command, you ought to be very fastidious in choosing your men, and make them stand the test of battle and temptation to negtect duty, before acceptance. I was greatly obliged to you for the saddle of Stoughton. I wish you would send me whatever evidence you may be able to furnish of Miss Ford's innocence of the charge of having guided you in your exploit at Fairfax, so that I can insist upon unconditional release. Be vigilant about your own safety, and do not have any established headquarters anywhere but ** in the saddle." 1 hope Mrs. Mosby reached you in safety. My re^^ds to her, if still with you. Your praise is on every lip, and the compliment the President has paid you is as marked as it is deserved. Very truly yours, J. E. B. Stuart. The name ** Mosby's Regulars '' did not long adhere to the command, but was soon supplanted by friend and foe with that more descriptive and more popular name, " Mosby's Men.'' Stuart's advice was taken and the men were chosen by Mosby after satisfactory trial, and were principally young unmarried men. They had no tents, or baggage, or commis- sar}' wagons, but had homes within Mosby's Confederacy, Moses Trusaell. J20 Bull Run to Bull Run. which comprised the counties of- Fauquier and Loudoun, and used these homes, as the foxes do their dens, as places of abode in hours of safety, and to be avoided in hours of danger. The command met by appointment or summons, and went off on forays into the enemy's camps, and, returning, divided the spoils and dispersed among their abodes : " Then sweet the hour that brings release From danger and from toU, We talk the battle over And share the battle spoil; 1 he woodland rings with laugh and shout. As if a hunt were up, And woodland flowers are gathered To crown the soldier's cup, With merry songs we mock the wind That in the tree-top grieves. And slumber long and sweetly On beds of oaken leaves." When not on duty the men enjoyed various diversions — horse-races, card-parties, and dances principally. The belles of Virginia were abundant and beaux were plentiful. The danger that surrounded them gave zest and piquancy to their sports and frolics. There was not an unmarried man in Mosby's Confederacy who did not have one sweetheart at least, and some had more than their share. The religious side of the men was some- what neglected. The command possessed a chaplain in name, but fear the chaplain's practices, if not his tenets, tended more towards the broad than the straight and narrow way. He was generally found among the gay and festive, dancing to the tune of " Sugar in the Gourd," or, "All Around the Chicken Roost," or, around the gaming-table, shouting, '' High, low, jack and the game," or, at the race betting on the '' grey mare." But there were many pious men among '* Mosby's Men," whose noble examples did much towards leavening the whole lump, and who to-day stand in the foremost ranks of the Christian ministry. The men were not paid by the Confederate Government, but were allowed Bull Run to Bull Run, ^21 all captures, and on these they maintained themselves and fared' sumptuously. These spoils were generously shared with the home-folks of our shebangs and our chief circulating medium was " booty and greenbacks." My home was chosen about two miles south of Hillsboro, at the eastern foot of the Blue Ridge, on the western border of the Mosby Confederacy, with this mountain and the Shen- andoah river on its western side as barriers from attack in that quarter. In this rural retreat, I was never disturbed by the Yankees, and heartily enjoyed the sumptuous entertain- ment and quiet repose found there. I was in every respect as snug as I could wish, and looked forward with many hopes and aspirations to my new sphere of action. 21 CHAPTER XXIII. Farewell, fallen brothers, though this life be o'er. There's another, in which we shall meet you once more. Schiller. Soldier, rest; thy warfare o'er, Sleep the sleep that knows no waking, Dream of battle-fields no more. Days of sighing, nights of waking, Morn of toil or eve of breaking. Scott, On April 8, 1865, Mosby's command, pursuant to orders, met at Upperville, and Companies D and H were ordered on a scout down in Fairfax county. Captain* Glasscock, of Com- pany D, being my senior, the command of the squadron and the responsibility of the venture devolved upon him. This was a great relief to me. My ambition was to excel in the performance of duty rather than to aspire to be a leader among men. While the men shared equally with the leader in the glory of a victory, the leader alone must bear th-e shame and ignominy of defeat. It was especially pleasing on this occasion to have another lift this burden from my shoulders, as the expedition was bound to a strange part of the country, and its aim and object, as well as a great majority of the com- mand, were unknown to me. The march was made to Salem (now Marshall) on the 8th, and the squadron was disbanded, with instructions to meet on the next day at the Plains. Rest and refreshm-ent were found by me at the hospitable mansion " Waveland," where pleasure and enjoyment could always be found with the hosts of young company usually found there. The command assembled on the 9th at th« appointed time and place, and there I learned, to my grezt regret and sur- prise, from a note received from Captain Glasscock, that he would be unable to accompany us on account of his wedding, [322] Bull Run to Bull Run, j2j which would take place in a few days. The command thus devolved upon me. It was an honor little coveted, but one from which I could not shrink. If I had been given a little more time, I might have found myself in an equally excusable situation. Having acquainted myself with the destination of our expedition and our guides, I moved off across Bull Run mountains, not without some misgivings, and camped that night at a place called Arundels, a short distance from Fairfax Station. The rain was falling in torrents, and our preparations were not made for such weather. About the middle of the night one of our officers, familiar with the coun- try and the people, informed me that a house full of young ladies was close by, and proposed that I should go with him, find shelter, and a pleasant visit. Such a tempting solicita- tion could not be resisted. On reaching the house, I found quite a lot of our men had preceded me, and were in posses- sion of the premises and the ladies, having a hilarious time. I soon felt that the entertainment and the ladies were not congenial, and having fully informed myself of the situation and proximity of the enemy, returned to our camp in the woods, full of suspicion of the loyalty of our hostess. Fear- ing a surprise, I passed the remainder of the night in suspense and trepidation, and gladly hailed the morning light. At day- break the squadron was mounted and moved in the direction of Burke's Station, trusting our presence had not yet become known to the enemy. But it seems the bird had flown, the Yankees had been apprised of our number, whereabouts and destination. As we approached Burke's Station, we found the mule teams, the object of our raid, gone, our scheme and enterprise frustrated, and the enemy preparing for us a warm reception. Seeing that the expedition was fruitless, we began to retrace our steps and reached Arundels, Lieutenant Carter being in the rear with some twenty men to prevent surprise. Just as the head of the column passed the Arundels house and Fairfax Station road, our men were assailed in the rear, and the rear-guard forced into our 3^4 Bull Run to Bull Run. column, creating some consternation and confusion. The squadron was quickly faced about, and the enemy's charge repulsed. But their reinforcements coming up at this time, our men were brought to bay and victory lingered in doubt. Assured that a bold dash would save us, I endeavored to urge our men to charge, but they had now become somewhat dispirited and disorganized, and all attempts in that direction were futile. In this effort I was ably assisted by some of the officers and men of the command. In a short time our line began to waver and break, and retreat was inevitable. About two hundred yards south of Arundels was an open space of ground favorable for cavalry movements. Here I proposed to make a stand, and had succeeded in rallying about 50 men, but when the enemy approached and opened fire they gave way and joined in the retreat. The pursuit lasted until the Occoquan was crossed at Wolf Run Shoals, and it is there that Lieutenant Wiltshire claims the honor of having fired the last shot of the war. I was much mortified at the result of this fight, but felt I had done my best to avoid it. In this engage- ment my horse was shot in the nostrils and foreleg and nearly succeeded in unhorsing me. Company D in this fight num- bered about 75 men, and Company H, about 40 men. Oppos- ing us were Companies G, H, and K, Eighth Illinois Cavalry, under Colonel Albright, about 250 men. The loss on each side was nearly equal, as will be seen from the Federal account. April 10, 1865. General Gamble : I have just come into camp from a fight with a battalion of Mosby's men, under command of Captain Baylor. I whipped him like thunder, and captured a number of horses and some provisions. Had a few men wounded and a half- dozen horses killed. Will send a full account at an early hour. Charles Albright, Colonel. Colonel Albright may have captured a couple of horses, but where he found those provisions I cannot imagine, as Mosby's men had no wagons, or even haversacks. They usually car- Bull Run to Bull Run. ^25 ried their provisions in their stomachs, and not much there on this occasion, as we were without breakfast that morning. The Colonel possessed as keen a perception as the old darkey who saw provisions in the Constitution. During the day, the Colonel gives his full report of the fight, ill which the provisions are not mentioned : Fairfax Station, April 10, 1865. I have the honor to report that this morning I received information through a source I considered reliable, that a force of rebel cavalry was south of this post, moving towards Burke's Station, for the purpose of capturing teams at work there. I immediately ordered out all the cavalry I have under my command, and started in the direction indicated. Abput three miles from here I came upon the trail of the enemy and followed it towards Burke's Station, in the neighborhood of which place some shots were exchanged between the enemy and a detachment of Company K, Eighth Illinois Cavalry. The rebels upon being discovered beat back into the woods, and upon my recovery of the trail again, followed, taking with me Lieutenant Hupp's command. At Arundels I discovered them formed into line, and behind the house, barn, and fence. I ordered my men into line as rapidly as I could, advanced and opened fire. The rebels soon broke and I charged after them. We drove them to Wolf Run Shoals, and saw their rear cross. J did not deem it prudent to follow any farther, as our horses were pretty well exhausted, and the column pretty well scattered along the road. The enemy's force was a battalion of Mosby's command. Companies D and H, Cap- tain Baylor in command. Captain Briscoe was in command of Company D, numbering altogether about 150 men. They had started from Upperville on Saturday morning last. The casualties are as follows: Company G, two men slightly wounded, three horses killed and three wounded; Company H, one horse killed; Company K, one horse killed and one wounded. Richard McVey, wounded seriously; Edward Heflebower, Thomas H. Harvey, Engineer Bureau; Lieu- tenant Company F, Sixth Missouri; First Sergeant David G. Mohler, Company H, and Samuel Rodgers; six horses cap- tured and six or eight horses killed; seven complete sets of horse equipments. I cannot speak too highly of the gallantry of Captain Warner, Lieutenants Brooks and HuflF, and also* ^26 Bull Run to Bull Run. of their men. It is also my duty to add that the information was l)rouf^ht me from Arundels, a heretofore suspected rebel family. Shall I send the prisoners over? Charles Albright, Colonel. From this report it seems my suspicions about the Arundel family were well founded and the failure of the expedition nuist be laid at the door of our unfaithful friends. The onomy seems to have confounded our squadron with the iloiachment of Mosbv's command under Lieutenant-Colonel (.liapman, w hich had been wintering in the Northern Neck. Fairfax Courthouse, Va., April lo, 1865. I iouionant-Colonel I. H. Taylor, Chief of Staff. Department of Washington : l\>lonel, — The detachment of the Eighth Illinois Cavalry, which went out this moniing. as previously reported, from Fairfax Station, met Mosby's Battalion, from the No-rthem Neck, under ^'ajitain Baylor, and, as usual, whipped it like the devil. The Fi^hth captured a number of horses and some prr. oners. Had a few men wounded and a half-dozen horses killed. A detailed report will be made as soon as practicable. William Gamble, Colonel Commanding Brigade. rjeneral An^ur then inquires: IlKADgiJAKTKRS DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, TVVEXTV-SECOXD ArMY CoRPS, Washington, D. C, April lo, 1865. General Gamble, CommandinjT^ Fairfax Courthouse: Please inform me if the rebels under Captain Baylor that your men fought to-day are a part of Major Chapman's com- mand in the Northern Neck; and, if so, learn where Chapman is w^ith the remainder of his command. Answer by 9 o'clock to-morrow morning. C. C. Augur, Major-General. Colonel Gamble seems to think that he had whipped Mosby's men, as usual, like the devil If he had ever accom- plished that feat before, it is not recorded in sacred or pro- Thoa. W. Timberlake. 3^8 Bull Run to Bull Run, fane V'aiikee history, and if the critic will carefully review the reports from the Colonel himself, the advantage of this occasion will appear exceedingly small, hardly exceeding what Lord Coke would call molliter manus im possuit. Colonel Albright, in his report, admits his loss as two men wounded, five horses killed and four wounded, while he only claims to have inflicted on us a loss of one man wounded, five prisoners, six horses killed and six captured. I hope the devil will never whip him any worse. Our squadron was no ])art of Colonel Chapman's command, and, unlike Colonel Albright's force, far away from any support or base of sup- plies. If there is any glory in this engagement, our Yankee friends are welcome to it. This was the last fight of the war. General Lee had surrendered on the 9th, but the fact was only known to us through hostile sources, which were not credited. It was a strange coincidence that my first and last fights were near the same ground. On July 21, 1861, as a private in the Botts Greys, Second Virginia Infantry, Jack- son's Brigade, I had received my baptism of fire on the banks of Bull Run, and now near the same spot, well-nigh four years afterward, I had fired my last shot. From Bull Run to Bull Run! What a tragedy! What trials, hardships, suffering and death strewed the way, and now gloom and despair cover all. Jackson, who had taught our hands to war and had strewn his path with victory, was dead. Stuart the cavalier, Ashby the knight, and Jones the stubborn soldier, with a host of brave and heroic men, had fallen in the conflict, and now Lee, the last hope of the soldiers of the Army of Northern Virginia, had surrendered. We could not even find courage in despair. AH was lost, and the future seemed without aim or object. Death and the grave alone appeared inviting. But there was grandeur in the retrospect. During this memorable period, it was my proud fortune to have seen service under the illustrious trio of generals — ^Jack- son, Stuart, and Robert E. Lee. I have ever regarded the first Bull Rtup to Bull Run. J2Q as the thunderbolt of the conflict and acknowledge myself somewhat imbued with the sentiment and spirit of the good old Catholic priest, who in his prayer said, "Lord, when in Thy wise counsels it was decreed that our Southern cause should be lost, Thou didst see that it was necessary to remove Thv servant Stonewall Jackson/' I remember him in the early days of the war, when few had seen more than mediocrity in the man, and was with him on the memorable battle-field of First Manassas, when he emerged from obscurity, dropped the humble name of his past life, and became the immortal ^' Stonewall/' Danger and peril seemd not only to arouse his energies, but his intellect as well. On the battle-field his mind seemed on fire and worked with so much clearness and rapidity that he appeared a veritable battle-god. In my humble judgment he was the man for the times, and the only one produced by the war on our side that possessed those traits of character essential to our success! The situation in 1776 and 1861 were entirely different. In the first period our opponents were far removed from the base of operations, and transportation was slow and dangerous. The Fabian policy was then the true one, and our enemies were worn out by a long and protracted war. But in our civil conflict our adver- saries were at our doors, just far enough removed to render their base of supplies safe. Our ports of entry were closed and our home supply for a protracted war was totally insuffi- cient. To insure success and our discomfiture, our enemy needed only tenacity of purpose, and this qualification was possessed in an eminent degree by General Grant. The date of his assignment to the command of the Army of the Potomac determined our fate. The brave legions of Lee, victors on so many fields, must yield to the unceasing and untiring blows of Grant, aided and assisted by hunger and famine. Without means of recuperation, the war was only a question of time. A vigorous pursuit after the decisive battle of First Manassas might have produced a favorable result, and Jackson alone favored pursuit, and exclaimed, 230 BiiU Run to Bull Run. " Give me 10,000 men and I will be in Washington to-night." The men were there in readiness, but no leader to grasp the situation, and the golden opportunity was lost. The Roman Legions, after many defeats and after Hannibal had knocked at the gates of the imperial city, learned the folly of their war policy and triumphantly exclaimed, " Carthago delenda est." General Lee wrote of Jackson just after his death at Chancel- lorsville : '' I do not propose to speak here of the character of this illustrious man, since removed from the scene of his eminent usefulness by the hand of an inscrutable, but all-wise Provi- dence. I nevertheless desire to pay the tribute of my admira- tion to the matchless energy and skill that marked this last act of his life, forming, as it did, a worthy conclusion of that long series of splendid achievements which won for him the lasting gratitude and love of his country." General Stuart was the Paladin of General Lee's army. Where his black plume waved, death and destruction fol- lowed in its wake. He was the embodiment of chivalry, brave and daring in encounter, and mild and gentle in the bivouac. " So sweetly fierce, that when his face is shown You deem him love, but Mars when helmed and steeled. He mounts his fiery barb and fulmined through the field." He flashed across the horizon of war, and, meteor-like, disappeared in the brightness of his own glory. " Blessed are they who die in their youth, when their martial deeds are around them." General Lee writes of him : "Among the gallant soldiers who have fallen in this war, General Stuart was second to none in valor, in zeal, and in unflinching devotion to his country. His achievements form a conspicuous part of the history of this army, with which his name and services will be forever associated. To military capacity of a high order and to the nobler virtues of the Bull Run to Bull Run. 55/ soldier, he added the brighter graces of a pure life, guided and sustained by the Christian's faith and hope. The mysterious hand of an all-wise God has removed him from the scene of his usefulness and fame. His grateful country- men will mourn his loss and cherish his memory. To his comrades in arms he has left the proud recollection of his deeds and the inspiring influence of his example." None felt more deeply than General Lee the loss of his illustrious lieutenants, but he held bravely on, and struggled manfully and heroically against inevitable fate. Robert E. Lee ! " Behold the man.'' " Supremacy is thrown Upon his forehead Hke a shining star, And every eye is fixed on him alone." He was the most complete man of all times, all occasions, and all ages. His life has been and will ever be a benediction to his race. His escutcheon is spotless, his fame as eternal as the ages, and his character will be impressed upon genera- tions yet unborn. When the passions and animosities of that war are totally dissipated, and his life and character are calmly and dispassionately examined and studied, the univer- sal verdict will assign him the highest niche in the temple of fame. A member of Company B, now an eminent lawyer at Staunton, relates the following incident of his war experience illustrative of the character of our commanding General: " Before the spring campaign of 1864 had opened, the headquarters of General Lee were with his infantry lines (about Orange Courthouse), then fronting the forces of Meade along the Rapidan, with no movement to indicate any purpose of a general advance, reported from cavalry headquarters, a mile or so away, and no reason for expecting it; the main body of our troops were taking life very easy in such winter quarters as they found or improvised, foraging 33^ Bull Run to Bull Run, by day and frolicking and * flanking ' by night, without much enforcement of discipline or readiness for more serious work in their scattered encampments. '* One of General Stuart's special detail of scouts, who was operating for the Department of Secret Service in the enemy's lines, along the Baltimore and Ohio railroad, in the lower Valley, took it into his head about this time of leisure, to go home to see — a sister. Whose sister is not material to the story. His home was at Charlestown; that historical village which was quite in the habit of changing hands be- tween the Federals and Confederates more than once in the day, but was never known to change its Confederate princi- ples or sympathies. At this time it was blue enough, with a brigade of Pennsylvania infantry in undisturbed but vigilant possession, and the staff quartered within musket-shot of the house. So the visitor had to leave * Old Stockinglegs ' in friendly hiding, and do some travelling on all fours to reach the cover of the old roof-tree. And being unlucky enough withal to stir up a hornet's nest of pickets, he was not only cut off from his horse, but unable for two days either to get away or to see that sister, except through shutter cracks, on an unsuccessful parley between her and the ' CorpwDral of the Guard, post No. 3.' *' It was the day then of hoops, not crinoHne, and the lady in the case had, under that sanctum, an elegant pair of cavalry boots, grey cloth for a uniform. New York and Washington papers for him, and letters galore for the boys in camp. She was postmistress. She got in, tired and tear- ful, after dusk, having by some feminine inspiration flanked that picket by the railroad cut below. The newspapers hinted at some important movement on foot among the 80,000 troops under Grant about Lookout Mountain and Missionary Ridge, in Tennessee. The scout crawled out that night between posts, and faithful old John, one of a do2ten negroes, big and little, who had been helping to hide him and lying to the Yankees, brought him a little runt of a Bull Run to Bull Run. jjj Canadian pojiy, which had been concealed, and at odd times fed, in a dark cellar, and so he made his way to the hills over- looking Harper's Ferry. There he was met, by appointment, by a citizen friend (Eichelberger) with more Northern news- papers; and while they talked, long trains began to pass from the west without stopping at the Ferry, and in such quick succession that curiosity took them closer. Over a dozen trains loaded with troops and artillery carried explana- tion enough to the scout of a sudden movement from the Army of the West, then fronting Bragg, to reinforce Meade for an assault upon the unprepared troops of Lee, in their scattered winter quarters. And suspicion thus confirmed, it was not very long before that pony was twenty miles away, swimming the Shenandoah for the Loudoun side at Snicker's Ferry. Swollen as it was by the rains, horse and rider were carried down by the current and reached the other bank drenched and exhausted. Yet that little Canadian held out, at an almost unbroken lope, for some twenty miles or more, with one hurried feed on a pavement at * Little Washington,' in Rappahannock, then collapsed and died, while the saddle was being buckled on a fresher horse impressed from a farmer by the roadside. " Somehow or other, and like some long nightmare, those eighty-five miles and more were covered, report made to General Stuart, the scout sent on without a moment's delay to General Lee, and almost as quickly admitted to his tent, the simple headquarters establishment of the Army of Northern Virginia. There he was received and seated with as much dignified politeness as if the boy private had been a corps commander. And in less than ten minutes the General knew about all there was in him, or in his newspapers, and had left the tent. What followed was a blank, for perhaps two hours, the last words heard being rapid directions to a staff officer for the movement and concentration of some infantry brigades. He awoke, as he had awaked more than once on that uncanny ride, with the sensation that his horse was about to carry him over the brink of a precipice, immediately in front. He was somewhat done up by loss of rest at the start, and the ride had almost finished him, physically and mentally. The torture from want of sleep had been something inde- scribable. All sorts of outlandish phantasms and vagaries had attended it. Men would be cantering alongside and get- ting in his way, but they were ghosts to the touch. He could see Meade's men in blue silently moving to a midnight attack. Fantastic forms were all about. River and mountain and forest were blended confusedly. His mind had been acting and yet hardly conscious of its action much of the time, and the body acted mechanically. As he tried to realize where he was, the tent-fly was softly opened and the noble head of General Lee appeared. After pleasant greeting it turned out that upon his leaving, the tired boy had sunk forward from the camp chair upon the General's cot in a dead sleep. The owner returning, had thrown a cloak over him, left him in quiet possession, tied the tapes of the tent door, and practically stood guard by walking up and down between the tent and the camp-fire, in the bleak wintry night, that the youngster might sleep without disturbance, as couriers came and went." To speak of that youngster as ashamed would poorly express his feelings, and it was even more embarrassing to have a special supper served to him in the General's tent, and to be honored by compliment on what he had done. As for the supper, it was the same plain and scanty repast he saw several times afterward at the General's mess-table, and (with the addition of red pepper and mustard) just what was being issued to his men in the ranks, for he would accept no luxuries. But the ration was garnished always with the grace of his dignified courtesy. Was it any wonder that his men loved " Marse Bob "? What other commander of an army at such a time would have shown such delicate consideration for an unknown soldier? Philip Terrill. 33^ Bull Run to Bull Run. Sure enough, the purpose was a brisk attack upon Lee's lines, resting in the fancied security of their winter quarters. Meade was to drive a wedge between his widely-separated wings as the beginning of an ** on to Richmond " movement. But Meade's blow was not delivered. Forewarned was forearmed. His stealthy advance, in heavy columns, found Lee waiting for it in strong intrenchments behind Mine Run, *' ready and willin' " for a fight. Our artillery had been brought up from the grazing camps to the fighting line, and every gunner was ready to take his place. The Federal gen- erals were the only people ** surprised." Instead of assault- ing, Meade went to intrenching on his own account. He is said to have declared that he could carry that position with a loss of 30,000 men, but as that idea was frightful, there seemed nothing to do but retire to his old ground. And retire he did. The armies confronted each other for four days, at some points less than half a mile apart, and separted without closing for the struggle, Meade finally backing out the night before Lee had arranged to attack him, and retreat- ing to the Rapidan. The dawn showed only his deserted camp-fires. The episode indicates how fully, at all points, the rounded character of our great leader answered the question, What it is to be a gentleman. " To be gentle as well as to be honest, to be generous, to be brave, to be wise, and, possessing all these qualities, to exercise them in the most graceful outward manner.'' Senator Hill, in his grand eulogy on Lee, has not over- drawn the picture, when he says: "He was a foe without hate, a friend without treachery, a soldier without cruelty, and a victim without murmuring. He was a public officer without vices, a private citizen with- out wrong, a neighbor without reproach, a Christian without hypocrisy, and a man without guilt. He was Caesar without his ambition, Frederick without his tyranny. Napoleon with- out his selfishness, and Washington without his reward. He Bull Run to Bull Run. jj7 was as obedient to authority as a servant and royal in authority as a king. He was gentle as a woman in life, pure and modest as a virgin in thought, watchful as a Roman vestal, submissive to law as Socrates, and grand in battle as Achilles." Let the soldiers of Grant and Sherman wear the victor's crown and long enjoy the rich reward of their toil and danger. Envy them not, Confederate soldiers, so gjeat a prize. On his death-bed General Jackson said : " The men who live through this war will be proud to say to their chil- dren, I was one of the Stonewall Brigade," but prouder; yes, prouder still, to say they fought under the furled banners of those peerless Christian soldiers Jackson, Stuart, and Robert E. Lee. This is glory and honor enough for the Confederate soldier. After the little scrimmage down in Fairfax we returned with Companies D and H to Mosby's Confederacy, reaching there on the iith, and on the next day reporting to the Colonel the failure of our expedition; we found him so deeply interested and absorbed in the news of Lee's sur- render, received through a letter from General Hancock, that our mishap made little impression upon him. The letter was as follows : Headquarters Middle Military Division, April II, 1865. Colonel John Mosby, Commanding Partisans : Colonel, — I am directed by Major-General Hancock to inclose to you copies of letters which passed between Gen- erals Grant and Lee on the occasion of the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia. Major-General Hancock is authorized to receive the surrender of the forces under your command on the same conditions oflFered to General Lee, and will send an officer of equal rank with yourself to meet you at any point and time you may designate convenient to the 22 338 Bull Run to Bull Run. lines for the purpose of arranging details, should you con- clude to be governed by the example of General Lee. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. H. Morgan, Brevet Brigadier-General and Chief of Staff. After the reception of this communication, Colonel Mosby took time to consider and consult, and on the 15th replied: April 15, 1865. Major-General W. S. Hancock, Commanding, &c. : General, — I am in receipt of a letter from your Chief of Staff, Brigadier-General Morgan, inclosing copies of corre- spondence between Generals Grant and Lee, and informing me that you w^ould appoint an officer of equal rank as myself to arrange details for the surrender of the forces under my command. As yet I have no notice through any other source of the facts concerning the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia, nor, in my opinion, has the emergency yet arisen w^hich would justify the surrender of my command. With no disposition, however, to cause the useless effusion of blood, or to inflict on a war-worn population any unneces- sary distress, I am ready to agree to a suspension of hostilities for a short time in order to enable me to communicate with my own authorities, or until I can obtain sufficient intelli- gence to determine my future action. Should you accede to this proposition, I am ready to meet any person you may designate to arrange the terms of an armistice. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, John S. Mosby, Colonel C. S. Army. A very proper answer, and one that shows Colonel Mosby's level-headedness in great peril. There was no occasion to rush headlong into surrender when no force was impelling such a step, and in ignorance of any definite information from Confederate authorities as to the present situation of the war. A surrender at this time would appear cowardly to the soldiers of his command and serve to bring him in contempt with his enemies. Bidl Run to Bull Run. jjp General Hancock agreed on the suspension of hostilities and arranged for General Chapman to meet Colonel Mosby at Millwood, on the i8th instant, at 12 M., with instructions to arrange the surrender of his command or receive his defi- nite declination. It will be seen by referring to the closing sentence of Colonel Mosby's letter that the meeting was for the purpose of arranging the terms of an armistice. On the 1 8th, Colonel Mosby, with an escort, including myself, repaired to Millwood, where General Chapman and his escort were met and matters discussed, Colonel Mosby declining to discuss the question of surrender, as the object of the meeting, as shown in his letter of the 15th, w^as to arrange an armistice, while General Chapman contended that under his instructions he could only treat as to surrender. Colonel Mosby, as w411 be seen by the following communica- tion, carried his point : Headquarters Second CaVx\lry Division, Near Berryville, Va., April 18, 1865. Brevet Brigadier-General Morgan, Chief of Staff, Winchester, Va. : General, — I have the honor to report that, agreeable to instructions, I met Colonel John S. Mosby, Confederate States army, commanding Forty-third Virginia Battalion, to-day at Millwood, under a flag of truce, to confer with him touching the surrender of his command and to conclude the details, should he have decided to surrender under the terms offered him. He declined to surrender at this time, for the reason that his command was not in immediate danger, and that he had not such information as yet as would justify him in concluding the * Confederate Cause ' altogether hopeless. He expressed himself as 'anxious to avoid any useless effusion of blood or destruction of property, and desirous, therefore, of a suspension of hostilities for a short time until he could learn the fate of ' Johnston's army.' Should that be defeated, or surrendered, he said he should regard the ' Confederate Cause ' as lost, and would disband his organization. He does not propose even in that event to surrender them as an -organization for parole, but to disband the battalion, giving 5^0 Bull Run to Bull Run. to each individual to choose his own course. He informed me he had already advised his command that those who chose to do so could come and give their parole. For himself he said he had no favors to ask, being quite willing to stand by his acts, all of which he believed to be justifiable, and in the course of my conversation with him, he remarked that he did not expect to remain in the country. I made an agree- ment with him for a suspension of hostilities for forty-eight hours longer, expiring at noon on the 20th, and a conditional agreement for a further suspension for ten days. These agreements are herewith inclosed, and I will inform Colonel Mosby of the action of the General commanding so soon as advised. I did not give him to hope that this agreement for a ten-days' suspension would be concurred in. I regret that I have not the pleasure of communicating the surrender of this force, but trust my actions in the premises will meet approval. The interview throughout was characterized by good feeling. Perhaps I ought, in justice to Colonel Mosby and his officers, to state an universal regret was expressed because of the assassination of the President. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, George H. Chapman, Brigadier-General. This arrangement was communicated by General Hancock to General Halleck for instructions, and the following from General Grant returned: Washington, April 19, 1865. Major-General Hancock, Winchester: If Mosby does not avail himself of the present truce, end it and hunt him and his men down. Guerrillas, after beating the armies of the enemy, will not be entitled to quarter. U. S. Grant, Lieutenant-General. Tn accordance with this instruction from Grant, the truce was ended at noon on the 20th, and on the following day the conmiand met by orders at Salem (now Marshall). There was a full attendance, eight companies, numbering about 600 men. It was a splendid body of cavalry — young, active, well dressed, with gay trappings and fine horses, each man armed with two pistols and many with four. The men being drawn up in line, the following address was read to them : Bull Run to Bull Run. ^41 Fauquier, April 21, 1865. Soldiers, — I have summoned you together for the last time. The vision that we have cherished of a free and independent country has vanished, and that country is now the spoil of the conqueror. I disband your organization in prefer- ence to surrendering it to our enemies. I am no longer your commander. After an association of more than two eventful years, I part from you with a just pride in the fame of your achievements and grateful recollections of your generous kindness to myself. And now at this moment, in bidding you a final adieu, accept the assurance of my un- chaugiug confidence and regards. Farewell. J. S. MosBY, Colonel. There were few dry eyes among the men as they pressed around their chieftain and bade him adieu, and the parting was dramatic in the extreme. Colonel Mosby, with some 50 followers (myself included), started South to join Johnston, but Lieutenant-Colonel Chapman, with the greater part of the men surrendered to Hancock, and Chapman's great haste in this matter has caused a reflection on his name which I do not believe he deserves. It is contained in the following: Hon. E. M. Stanton, Secretary of War : Nearly all of Mosby's command has surrendered, including nearly or quite all of the officers except Mosby himself, who has probably fled. His next in rank, Lieutenant-Colonel Chapman, surrendered with the command. He is as impor- tant as Mosby, and from conversation had zvith him I think he will be valuable to the government hereafter. Some of Mosby'