Southern Historical Society Papers, Volume 11.
Reverend J. William Jones, Ed.

[326] fell, I paused to take a last look at him—one whom I had not known long, but one whom I had learned to esteem, admire and respect. He spoke not a word after he fell, nor was there any evidence that he was alive visible, though with my hand upon his breast I felt his heart still to beat. Driven from the body by the enemy before I could pull a ring from his finger, ere I returned the blood had left his cheek, and he lay calmly, painted in the sallow and ashy paleness of death. I remained, after taking his arms and effects, until arrangements could be made to carry his body off, and as I saw him wrapped from view in a coarse blanket, distressed as I was, I felt relieved. I contrasted the excitement, the strife, the horrors of this world, with the peace, the happiness, and bliss this Christian soldier had found in death. Peace to his ashes! The next day was spent in camp, and we were not interrupted except by a severe rain storm.

For the last five days we have been skirmishing with the enemy very heavily, whilst our army has been making preparations for the impending battle. We have lost very heavily in men. Yesterday we had a very severe fight, in which we suffered quite severely. One man, young Sandford, was slightly wounded in our company.

You will be able to form some idea from this account of how much in need of rest we are. Indeed, we have had a most laborious time of it. Thus far we have had enough to live on, how much longer it will continue so, I cannot say. The cavalry was driven in yesterday, since which time heavy skirmishing has been going on along our lines. The enemy, I have no doubt, are going to make a desperate effort to crush us here If we are defeated, indeed the blow will be a terrible one to us and our cause; but we have no reason to fear we will be defeated. If we do our duty, that Divine Being who has so often given victory to this army, will surely not desert us now. The issue is in His holy hands; may He comfort and aid those who put their trust in Him!

Our Generals think the cavalry will have a heavy part to bear in the coming battle. We are called upon to do our duty bravely. I look to the only true source of safety, for protection, amid the dangers to which we may be exposed.

I saw Captain Davis a few days ago; he was well and hearty. Captain Bowie was badly wounded at Gettysburg, and Ferd. Blackwell, slightly. These are the only casualties I have heard of in that Battle—in the Fortieth. I saw Wilbur Davis yesterday; he was very well; not engaged in the battle of Gettysburg. Captain