William W. Bennett, A narrative of the great revival which prevailed in the Southern armies during the late Civil War

[293] the influence of chloroform, and the mangled arm cut off by Dr. McGuire, and the ball extracted from the right hand. The General seemed insensible to pain, and said dreamily, “Dr. McGuire, I am lying very comfortably.” He then sunk into a quiet sleep, and in half an hour was awaked to receive nourishment. He awoke promptly when called, and took a cup of coffee with relish, saying it was good and refreshing. This was the first nourishment he had taken since Friday evening, and it was now Saturday midnight. When he fell, and his field-glass and haversack were removed, the latter contained no rations, but only a few official papers and two gospel tracts. After taking coffee he conversed freely with the friends around him, and asked particularly whether he had said anything when under the influence of chloroform, and added: “I have always thought it wrong to administer chloroform in cases where there is a probability of immediate death. But it was, I think, the most delightful physical sensation I ever enjoyed. I had enough consciousness to know what was doing; and at one time I thought I heard the most delightful music that ever greeted my ears. I believe it was the sawing of the bone. But I should dislike above all things to enter eternity in such a condition.” His attendants now urged him to suspend conversation and to seek repose in sleep. He ceased talking, and soon fell into a deep and quiet sleep, which lasted until 9 o'clock in the morning.

The manner and language of General Lee when he received the news of the wounding of Jackson were characteristic of that great and good man. Captains Hotchkiss and Wilbourne were sent to inform him of the result of the brilliant flank movement and of the fall of Jackson. They found the General lying upon the ground under a thick pine tree. It was before daybreak, but he at once asked them for the news of the battle. They described the battle, and informed him that Jackson was seriously wounded. The General was