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though we would not have it otherwise-we could not bear that one of them should hesitate to give his life's-blood to his country-yet it is heart-breaking to think of what
may happen.
June 19, 1861.
Yesterday evening we heard rumours of the
Federal troops having crossed the
Potomac, and marching to
Martinsburg and
Shepherdstown in large force.
General Johnston immediately drew up his army at a place called β
Carter's,β on the
Charlestown road, about four miles beyond
Winchester.
Messrs. B. and R. M. called this morning, and report that the location of the
Federals is very uncertain; it is supposed that they have retreated from
Martinsburg.
Oh, that our Almighty Father, who rules all things, would interpose and give us peace, even now when all seem ready for war!
He alone can do it.
June 24, 1861.
We have been in
Winchester for the last two days, at
Dr. S's.
General Johnston's army encamped at βThe Lick.β
Some Southern regiments encamped near
Winchester.
The army at
Manassas said to be strongly reinforced.
Measles prevailing there, and near
Winchester, among the troops.
There has been a slight skirmish in
Hampshire, on
New Creek, and another at
Vienna, in Fairfax County.
We repulsed the enemy at both places.
Captain Kemper, of
Alexandria, led our men in the latter fight, and is much extolled for his dexterity and bravery.
July 1, 1861.
A rumour of a skirmish, in which the Messrs.
Ashby were engaged, and that
Richard Ashby was severely wounded.
I trust it may not be true.
July 3, 1861.
A real fight has occurred near
Williamsport, but on the
Virginia side of the
Potomac.
General Cadwallader crossed the river with, it is said, 14,000 men, to attack our force of 4,000 stationed there under
Colonel