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Upton's brigade deployed as skirmishers.
Russell thought he could carry the work, so Sedgwick gave the order.
The conditions were favorable to success; the wind blowing strong from south to north, the firing could not be heard by the supporting batteries on the south side, so Russell stormed the redoubt with so much dash that it was captured before the Southern force on the south side knew it.
It was a brilliant coup de main, reflecting credit on those engaged, particularly the Maine and Wisconsin regiments.
The troops assailed by a division amounted to one thousand six hundred and seventy-four, and so rapid was the Federal rush that only six were killed and thirty-nine wounded; eight captured flags were carried to Meade's headquarters by Russell and Upton, preceded by a band, and then sent in charge of Russell to the War Department at Washington, after the manner Napoleon's trophies went sometimes to Paris, but the Secretary sent the gallant officer word he was too busy to see him, so the concluding ceremony was not as ostentatious as planned.
Lee withdrew on the night of the 8th to his lines behind the Rapidan, while Meade reoccupied his camp between the rivers.
Both sides wanted a battle, but on ground of their own selection.
About this time the city of Richmond presented General Lee with a house.
In consequence, the President of the City Council received the following letter, dated November 12, 1863: “I assure you, sir, that no want of the appreciation of the honor conferred upon me by this resolution, or insensibility of the kind feeling that prompted it, induces me to ask, as I most respectfully do, that no further proceedings be taken with reference to the subject.
The house is not necessary for the use of my family, and my own duties will prevent my residence in Richmond.
I shall therefore be compelled to decline the generous offer, and trust that whatever means the City Council may have to spare for this purpose may be devoted to the relief of the families of our soldiers in the field who are now in need of assistance, and more deserving of it than myself.”
The general was still worried about his imprisoned son, who was an affectionate, lovable fellow, as well as a
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