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he cannot be Commanding General and retain command of this army.
29th.
Sunday. All quiet.
Captain Anderson, commanding battalion, requested me to act as Sergeant-Major of same, until the 8th, Mr. Blair having received leave of absence until that time.
I requested him to get someone else, but he demurred at this, and I therefore consented to the proposition.
30th.
Transferred myself to headquarters of battalion; find Lieutenant Falligan, who is acting Adjutant, quite a pleasant gentleman.
31st.
All remains ‘statu quo.’
February 1st.
Nothing of consequence occurring.
Received a barrel of vegetables, etc., from home.
2d.
Our slumber disturbed this morning by the quick discharge of musketry, supposing it to be some false alarm we did not arise.
Learned afterwards that it was an attack on the enemy's pickets by our forces, who succeeded in capturing a few. Papers of today state that General Lee was on yesterday appointed by the Senate General-in-Chief.
Problem. Who will command this army now?
3-4th.
All remaining quiet; on the 3rd were paid three months wages ($55), by the quartermaster.
Lieutenant Falligan went off on 24 days furlough this morning (3rd), and I am now acting Adjutant of the battalion.
5th.
All is quiet today.
Remained in camp until evening, when I paid a visit to the company, and afterwards went to hear Mr. Oliver preach.
6th.
Received a letter from —— and answered it. The distant booming of cannon this morning broke the reign of quiet which has held us in subjection so long.
The firing was quite heavy and rapid, and indicated the progress of a severe fight.
Reports state it to be an attempt of the enemy to take possession of Dinwiddie Courthouse, which brings them within striking distance of the Danville railroad.
A very improbable rumor states that the enemy have possession of Dinwiddie courthouse.
7th.
The papers of today state that it was merely the cavalry of the enemy which attacked our lines at Dinwiddie Courthouse, and that the attack was repulsed with heavy loss.
Quite heavy and rapid firing is still maintained in that direction, however, and it is probable that the fight is not over.
Wrote to mother.
8th.
Still at headquarters, where it is likely I shall be compelled to remain until the 14th instant, as Blair's furlough has been
Richmond, VA. 1906.
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