October 14th
About 11 o'clock an ambulance was driven in front of the office, and two Yankees came in to carry me to it. I was not able to walk a step, not with crutches even, and scarcely able to turn over in bed. Many of my lady friends came to bid me good-bye and express their regret at my leaving.
They placed a nice lunch in my haversack, and in those of my companions, and, bidding them a reluctant, sorrowful farewell, I was lifted into the ambulance.
Farewell, sweet friends, and may Heaven protect you from the ruthless foes by whom you are surrounded.
The pike to
Martinsburg was very rough, and I was in constant dread of another hemorrhage from my wound.
There was a strong guard of cavalry riding in front, in rear, and on either side of us. They seemed to fear an attack from
Mosby.
Our halts were frequent, and we did not reach
Martinsburg before dark.
When the ambulance stopped in front of the Presbyterian church, of which
Rev. Mr. Hughes is pastor, now turned into a hospital, 1 inquired for
Miss Anna L. McSherry of some ladies on the sidewalk.
I did this at request of
Dr. W., and the ladies promised to tell her of my presence in
Martinsburg.
I was carried into the church, and placed on some straw beside my friend
Captain Hewlett.
In a short while the venerable
Dr. McSherry, with his accomplished daughter, entered the church, and were conducted to me. They were very kind; gave us some lunch, and some writing paper, envelopes,
United States stamps, etc. After my fatiguing ride, I slept well.
