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[464] as efficient with swords as they have been with muskets. It is a dangerous experiment to elect officers in the field, and especially in the face of the enemy. Captain Mellersh was left out for no other reason than that he was a strict disciplinarian. The election of field officers was postponed. Heavy cannonading was heard this morning, which proved to be skirmishing on the right wing of our army between Marmaduke's brigade and the enemy, who are advancing on our right and centre. The battle will probably commence in earnest tomorrow.

Sunday, May 4th.—Just twelve months ago we left Memphis to go into camp. We have been engaged in two battles, Belmont and Shiloh, and the entire loss in our company is ten (10) wounded. The regiment has suffered a loss of two hundred and twelve (212) in killed and wounded. Early this morning we were in line of battle at the rifle pits, eagerly watching for the advance of the enemy, but yet mindful of his defeat on the bloody plains of Manassas, he declined to make the attack on Sunday. We remained in line of battle all day in a drenching rain. To-morrow we will probably meet the foe. Then comes the tug of war.

Conquer we must,
For in God is our trust.

May 6th.—On fatigue duty at the Ordnance Department, loading and unloading wagons of ammunition. Arms of all kinds are also coming in, Enfield rifles, etc. We are fully prepared for the enemy, and are receiving reinforcements every day. The inclement weather may retard field operations, and the battle may be delayed several days.

,May 8th.—The regiment lay in line of battle in the woods. Slept all the morning, and read ‘Lady Glenlyon’ in the evening. Sharp skirmishing on our right all day.

May 9th.—Halt by the roadside and seat myself on a log to write. The evening is lovely. The booming of cannon and the rattle of musketry has just ceased, and all nature sleeps in calm repose. Heavy skirmishing again all day on the right, and it is reported that we have repulsed the enemy.

May 10th.—Heavy firing again to-day. Generals Price and Van Dorn fought the left wing of Halleck's army, and drove them back. Our loss light.

Sunday, May 11th.—The clash of arms has ceased, and the quiet of this holy Sabbath day has been undisturbed. The regiment returned to camp to-day.

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