Waitt, Ernest Linden, History of the Nineteenth regiment, Massachusetts volunteer infantry , 1861-1865

Every member of the regiment will remember that Major Howe did so, and was an authority on quarter guard, picket and outpost duty. Nothing pleased him more than to be detailed, later on, when the regiment was engaged in more active duty, as Field Officer of the Day, in which he always excelled.

An amusing incident occurred at Whitehouse Lock, where there was a tail race. The lock itself was spanned by a narrow plank walk. Two men had been drowned by falling into the lock, and the noise of the race had prevented their cries being heard. Late one night, Capt. Weymouth of Company G, commanding the outpost, heard someone struggling in the lock and calling for help. He managed to fish out the unfortunate person, who wore a Brigadier General's uniform, and put him in front of a fire in his quarters, dressed in clothing furnished by the officer on duty. It was in December, and he was not only nearly drowned but as nearly frozen to death. The man proved to be Governor William Sprague, of Rhode Island, on his way to Poolesville to visit some batteries from his state which were stationed there. He had taken a notion to ride up the tow path of the canal in the night, from Washington, so as to reach Poolesville by daylight. As he had the countersign and parole, he could pass all the pickets. He had fastened his horse and endeavored to reach the storehouse, where he saw light and hoped to get warmth and refreshments but slipped into the lock in crossing.

During the stay of the regiment at Muddy Branch, there were numerous changes in the roster. Q. M. S. Oliver F. Briggs, of Company A. was promoted to be Second Lieutenant in that Company: Com. Sergt. Elisha A. Hinks, of Company B. was made Second Lieutenant, Vice Second Lieut. James G. Lurvey, honorably discharged. Second Lieut. Geo. M. Barry, of Company E, was honorably discharged and First Sergt. M. A McNamara was promoted to the position.

During January and February the officers were very much scattered. Col. Hinks was absent in Massachusetts, and Lieut. Col. Devereux was left in command of the district from Great Falls to Seneca. Adjt. John C. Chadwick was acting Asst. Adjt. General at the headquarters of the First Brigade, Corps