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the advance commenced, the enemy appeared on our right flank.
This made it essential that our direction should be changed.
This was done on the move by making a wheel to the right.
We moved direct against their position, which was a very strong one, they occupying an eminence covered with heavy timber.
On our gaining the height they deserted it. After holding the position a short time the line on our left gave way, crying out ‘they were flanked,’ and consequently we fell back across the field, and reformed in the timber.
In crossing this field the gallant and highly esteemed Captain Jo. Billingsley fell.
Several other gallant men fell in this fight, and a number of men and officers were wounded.
After our line was reformed a temporary breastwork was constructed.
We were here exposed to a heavy fire from the enemy's artillery; and here it was that Captain Bassett, who had ably and gallantly commanded the regiment since the wounding of Colonel Bane, received a severe wound by a fragment of shell, which deprived us of his services.
This closed the operations of the regiment in the two days fight.
I cannot close without adding my testimony to the gallant bearing of both men and officers.
With a few exceptions, their conduct has never been surpassed on any of the many fields on which they have been engaged.
A full list of casualties has already been furnished.
I am, respectfully, etc.,
James T. Hunter, Captain Commanding Fourth Texas Regiment.
