YALE UNIVERSITY
LIBRARY

y/ u/< v? 7

CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLEFIELD;

®>tyn jtoa and a gaif

AEMT OF TFIE POTOMAC.

Rev. A. M. STEWART,
Hi
Chaplain of lOSd Regiment, P. "V.

PHILADELPHIA:
JAS. B. RODGERS, PRINTER, 52 & 54 NORTH SIXTH STREET.
1865.

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER I. PA9E
THREE MONTHS CAMPAIGN,  1
CHAPTER II.
WASHINGTON AND VICINITY,  29
CHAPTER III.
TENNELLY, D.C,  85
CHAPTER IV.
PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN,  136
CHAPTER V.
PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN,  178
CHAPTER VI.
YORKTOWN— NEW BALTIMORE, VA  220
CHAPTER VII.
BURNSIDE'S CAMPAIGN,  .-  265
CHAPTER VIII.
HOOKER'S COMMAND  294
CHAPTER IX.
MEADE'S CAMPAIGN IN VIRGINIA,  328
CHAPTER X.
GRANT'S CAMPAIGN,  ,  375

PREFACE.

When a too confiding and money-making North was
startled into unwonted activity by the cannon-thunders in
Charleston harbor, the author of the following pages
was quietly performing the duties of a city pastor. The
shells, hurled against Sumter, had scarcely done burst
ing ere volunteers sufficient for several regiments were
ready to leave the city of his residence, many of whom
were from his own congregation.
At this period, the Government had no definite provi
sion for a Chaplain service to its volunteer troops. Per
suaded, however, that the ministers of Christ had of right
much to do in the inevitable and impending struggle,
must needs have much to do, if ever properly accom
plished, in re-adjusting the disjointed elements; as the
shakings of the present convulsion would tear up and
throw loose the vainly bolstered fixtures of wily, wicked,
politicians and statesmen ; — unwilling, also, that so many
young men, fresh from the quiet pursuits of home, should
so suddenly become exposed to all the destructive ten-

VI PREFACE.
dencies of camp life without some effort and sacrifice to
have gospel influences accompany them, the following
communication was sent to Brig. Gen. J. S. Negley, then
organizing the volunteers from the city and vicinity :
Pittsburg, Pa., April 19th, 1861.
Dear Sib: — As it. is the praise-worthy custom of Christian coun
tries to afford their soldiers during military service the means and
consolations of religion, I therefore offer myself as a volunteer to the
service of my country and my God, in the capacity of Chaplain to the
troops under your command. Should the tender be accepted, I am
ready. The present war is, in many of its aspects, a religious one. It is a
battle for truth and righteousness — for liberty against despotism. Of
these things our soldiers should be constantly reminded. Ministers
of the gospel are the fittest persons for this service. Those who fight
for a religious principle are mighty in the day of battle. The Round
heads of Cromwell prayed and sang psalms, and were invincible. Be
fore engaging in the battle of Balaklava the Chaplain of each British
regiment stood in front of the seried ranks and lifted up their hands
in prayer to the God of battles; each soldier, at the same time, reve
rently uncovering his head. They conquered.
My proposed service is, by the grace of God, to make of those un
der your command better men, and, hence, better soldiers; to comfort
the sick and wounded, and to console the dying; vet. if a strait comes.
and you should require me to wield the sword or handle the rifle, I
would have no hesitancy, having been early trained in their use by a
brave old father, who commanded a volunteer company in the late war
with Great Britain, A. M. Stewaet.
Pastor Second Reformed Pres. Church, Pittsburg.
A week had scarcely elapsed before the writer wns
with the Thirteenth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers,

PREFACE. Vii
in York, Pa., engaged for a three months' campaign.
This term completed, the Regiment was re-organized, on
the same day it was disbanded, for a service of three
years. In re-organizing the Pennsylvania troops, it was
numbered the One hundred and second Regiment, though
still fondly designated, by many of its members, as the
"Old Thirteenth." In the month of March, 1864, it
became a veteran regiment, thus entering for an addi
tional three years.
In all the campings, marchings and battles, of the Poto
mac army, the " Old Thirteenth " has borne a full and
honorable part, and, in all of these, it has been accom
panied by the author. Lengthened and thorough have
been his opportunities for accomplishing the purposes of
this volume, giving to others some just conception of
Camp Life, of a great army in motion, and of two mighty
hosts in the shock of battle. To write a history of the
Potomac Army, during the past three years and a half,
has not been, a definite object in the writer's mind;
yet the reader may be able, in the following pages, to
trace its general movements, trials, defeats and triumphs.
The future historian may here have afforded him partial
material for a more lengthened and satisfactory narrative.
A leading design has been, to exhibit what the religion
of Christ may, and ought to become, in camp.
Three years and a half of careful study, with almost
weekly sketches for the press, have proved too short a
period fully to understand and develope the strange

Vill PREFACE.
phases, the ever-varying aspects, the too often grotesque .
exhibitions of human character, as exhibited in camp.
Various considerations induce the presentation of these
sketches in their origmal form, Letters to the Press, with
merely explanatory and connecting additions. Succes
sively written while the incidents and impressions were
fresh and vivid, they will thus afford more interest than
if penned and remodelled never so much.

PREFACE. IX

CAMP LIFE.
Unnatural, savage, debasing condition ! A multitude
of people, yet not a city ! Numerous inhabitants, yet no
family ! Human affections, sympathies, passions, in vigo
rous and prolonged exercise, yet all in the wrong direc
tion ! Rivalry, jealousy, ambition, quarrels, bicker
ings, fightings, drinking, swearing, gambling, all swel
tering, festering, bubbling, surging together, and no oil
for the troubled elements! Bach rough, rugged, way
ward, heathenizing tendency of crooked human nature in
active operation, with no gentle, no soothing, no soften
ing influences to modify, to mollify or to change !. No
home, no mothers, wives, sisters, daughters, sweethearts;
no Sabbath, no church there : all rugged, wayward men !
Men huddled together to learn expertness in killing their
fellows, drilled to become individual machines, and alto
gether to be moulded and trained into one grand locomo
tive, called an army, to come and go, to stop and start,
to move and act at the beck and bidding of a single
mind !
During these years, search has diligently been made
for a single element of camp life, which might justly be
considered favorable to sound morals and true religion,
yet has the search, so far, been in vain. All the varied
atrocities of this strange mode of existence seem ever
tending towards evil. Whatever good has been accom-

X PREFACE.
plished by personal effort and benevolent enterprise, has
been and must continue to be effected in the face of con
stantly active and opposing influences.
At least three-fourths of a soldier's time of enlistment
is spent in camp. To him, a battle is only an incident,
a march but an episode. Six months or a year are often
spent in camp while preparations are in progress for a
single battle of a few hours' duration. A camp of one
or two hundred thousand immortal beings, thus, becomes
a matter of absorbing interest, not only to the soldier
and his friends, but also to the pohtical economist, the
statesman, the philanthropist and the .Christian.

CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLEFIELD.

CHAPTER I.
iftree Jftcmths (fampip,
APRIL TO AUGUST, 1861.
Camp Scott, York, Pa., May 18, 1861.
An Age in a Few Days. — The work of an age has passed
within the last two weeks. The greatest revolution of time has
transpired within a month. The crushing out of this Southern
rebellion is but a work of time, and, when done, will only con
stitute a small incident in the importance of this great drama.
Two weeks ago various political creeds and factions divided
the twenty millions in the Northern States. These have dis
appeared as by magic.
Various shades of opinion respecting the moral and political
bearings of slavery, divided the people. All gone. Slavery is
now looked upon by all as a deadly bane of the body politic —
a thing hated of God, accursed of men, and to be speedily
and forever abolished. A month since, the various evangelical
denominations of the North seemed separated by conflicting
interests, and to be looking in different directions. C^AH are
1

2 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD'.
now occupying a higher platform, and cordially co-operating.
What hath the Lord wrought ! . His kingdom moves faster
than in times of peace. No unusual thing for the walls of
Zion. to he built in troublous times. But my present purpose
in writing was not to moralize.
York is a clean, "quiet-looking place, containing about ten
thousand people. A beautiful, highly cultivated and fertile
country surrounds it. The location is on the railroad leading
from Harrisburg to Baltimore, about twenty-five miles south
of our State capital, and fifteen miles from the Maryland line.
About six thousand troops are now encamped here, including
the Twelfth and Thirteenth Regiments from Pittsburgh.
On Sabbath last, May the 5th, public worship was inaugu
rated in Camp Scott. The officers gave every encouragement
and assistance. The Companies of the Twelfth, Thirteenth,
and Seventeenth Regiments came in order around a stand in
the middle of the camp. Connected with these was a large
number of volunteer hearers. Young's brass hand played
while the companies were coming together. To myself the
position was new and s'trange in the extreme. Abraham's
motto came to mind, "Jehovah Jireh," and it was verified.
The services were introduced by a brief address to the
regiments, with respect to the remarkable providences which
had so suddenly brought us thus far away from our usual quiet
homes and places of worship on the Sabbath.
Col. J. A. Ekin, Quartermaster of the Twelfth Regiment,
led in singing; while hundreds of soldiers united in swelling:
up to heaven that grand old Psalm of Luther's, —
" God is our refuge and our strength,
In straits a present aid."
The text chosen was Paul's advice to Timothy : " "War a

THREE MONTHS CAMPAIGN. 3
good warfare," (1 Tim. i. 18.) As a number of the officers
were interested enough to ask a copy of the sermon for pub
lication, not having it in manuscript, and no time to write at
length in the bustle of camp, I give a very brief synopsis : —
Warring a good warfare implies :
1. A volunteer service. All whom I addressed were ready,
cheerful volunteers. None other would God receive into His
service. " A willing people in the day of his power should
come unto Him."
2. For a good warfare the soldier should assume proper
weapons. Each company was now anxious to be supplied with
the most approved and deadly weapons. The armory of the
Christian was described in Eph. vi. 13 — 19, and all were
exhorted to put it on.
3. For a good warfare the soldier is to give implicit obedi
ence to orders, endure fatigue, and manifest bravery. So of
the Christian. " Endure hardness as a good soldier."
4. For a good warfare the cause must be just. Ours was
eminently so. Traitors and rebels had conspired to destroy the
best government on earth, and deprive us of all we held dear.
God's cause was just. To put down the more unnatural
rebellion of sin, and bring back this revolted province of
earth into obedience to God.
5. For a good warfare a good Commander is necessary.
The eye of every soldier in camp was turned with the fullest
confidence to General Scott, as one altogether competent to
guide our armies to victory. Those enlisting in God's service
have got a more skillful and powerful Commander. Jesus is
the Leader and Commander -of his people.
6. A good warfare needs good resources. These our govern
ment possesses in men, money, and implements of war. Christ's

4 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
soldiers have better still. The resources of the universe are
under the control of their Commander.
7. A good warfare insures ultimate victory. So will it be
with our armies. So eminently and surely will ultimate vic
tory crown every true soldier of Jesus Christ.

Camp Scott, Yoek/Pa., May 18th, 1861.
A Real Devil. — There is certainly a devil — a real, living,
active, intelligent, wicked devil. As there is and can be
but one omnipotent, omniscient Being, this old devil being
a creature, and consequently in but one place at a time,
must needs have a large number of helps in carrying into
accomplishment his various schemes of evil. His is no doubt
a superior kind of military establishment — a standing army,
always ready. Principalities and powers are under him;
generals, aids, colonels, captains, lieutenants, and corporals,
with armies of rank and file. He seems equally prepared to
assail by stratagem, or conquer by open hostilities. His efforts
against our race are the more dangerous, and too frequently
successful, seeing he has so many of Adam's own children as
ready helps in his evil doings. If unblushing wickedness had
not done away with all modesty, both men and women would
surely be ashamed of their associates in arms — devils. Presi
dent Lincoln and his cabinet could not be so much demeaned
hy joining themselves at this juncture with Jeff. Davis and
his spurious rebel cabinet, as should the very meanest of men
feel themselves when joining in alliance with the old serpent.
The new and peculiar phases of camp life develop such varied

THREE MONTHS CAMPAIGN. 5
evils as induce me to hold in higher consideration than hereto
fore this old enemy's cunning. Hence, too, the necessity for
peculiar wisdom, energy, and perseverance to meet, and suc
cessfully counteract his wiles.
All the appliances which it is possible for Christians to
combine and use — all the home influences which they may be
able to send after our troops, should be used with prayerful
earnestness. During the opening excitements of camp-life,
with its almost bewildering influences on the thoughtful mind,
an almost certain consequence is, to give a prominent and
leading influence to all manner of wickedness. By the same
influences those who profess, and may really love God, are, for
the time being, kept in the background. Those in the camp,
who may have professed Christ at home, were not, while
there, generally, those who took a leading and prominent
part in religious matters. Timid, shrinking Christians, who,
if they did any thing in Christ's service, seemed ever to stand
in need of some one to lead. They have not trained them
selves to stand up, and, if need be, alone, for Jesus any where.
No marvel if they are not heard of here as on God's side,
unless they receive distinct encouragement. So easy is it to
be ashamed of Jesus. Such, moreover, are generally, unac
quainted with each other, and know not as yet their real
strength in camp. Our effort is, and will be, to combine and
strengthen the Lord's host, as well as to add to it.
It would be but a sorry triumph for our Constitution, our
Liberty, and our Laws, were the hundred thousand young men
now in the Union armies, to go from victory demoralized, and
totally unfit for the ordinary duties of good citizens. Such a
victory would, in the end, prove a defeat. Such a consequence
we have much reason to fear, unless the most active, judicious,

6 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
and persevering efforts be made to have sound religious influ
ences in every camp, regiment, company — in every mess.
Let no one, however, draw the inference that I imagine
Camp Scott to be the worst of all localities in our land, where
military operations are being carried on. Far otherwise. Per
haps no regiments now in the service have in them a greater
proportion of professors, or more young men who have enjoyed
a moral and religious training, than the troops with which it
is my happiness to he connected. This circumstance has given
me at once a wide and pleasant field for usefulness. Yet
eminently true is it here, as every where, " That one sinner
destroyeth much good." A bold, swaggering, profane, licen
tious young man, like a rotten sheep in a flock, may speedi
ly contaminate a whole company. It is, however, matter of
great encouragement to know that the prayers of so many
fathers, mothers, and sisters, are ascending to heaven, morning,
noon, and night, for blessings upon our labors in camp. A
prayer-hearing God will receive and answer these requests.
We are still comfortably quartered at Camp Scott, in the
Fair Grounds at York. How long or short the stay may he,
I hardly trouble myself to inquire. Perhaps the officers
themselves do not yet know. I learn the regiments are not
fully equipped The general health of the men continues
remarkably good. Not more than eight or ten in the hospital,
and nearly every one of these, on an emergency, could perform
duty. The weather is now dry, cool, and pleasant. The men
are now comfortably quartered, have plenty of good, whole
some food, are very cheerful, and actively drilling every day.
Chaplains. — As neither State nor National Government
has made provision for religious service, in order to benefit our

THREE MONTHS CAMPAIGN. 7
Three Months' Volunteers, and every available shed and shelter
in Camp Scott, was crowded with troops or used for hospital
purposes, a running visit was made to Philadelphia, in order
to procure a tent in which to hold social worship. By the
advice and liberality of friends in Pittsburg, a wall-tent eighteen
by twenty and thirteen feet high was purchased, and soon in
camp. By the assignment of the commanding officer, it has
heen duly pitched in a-suitable location.
First Prayer-Meeting in Camp. — At the close of public
worship on Sabbath last, intimation was given, that a prayer-
meeting would be held in the tent at eight o'clock the same
evening. It rained at eventide, and some apprehension was
felt lest the announcement might be overlooked or the rain
prevent a meeting. Most gratifying, however, was it, at the
appointed hour, to find the tent compactly jammed ; the soldiers
standing as close together as they could press. All stood for
more than an hour without any apparent weariness. Some of
the officers readily took. part in the exercises. It was a most
refreshing as well as encouraging meeting ; an indication that
much is to be hoped for in future from this our Bethel in
Camp.

Chambersburg, Pa., June 8th, 1861.
Effects of Excitement. — The intense excitement which
has for many weeks agitated the hearts of all, may be distinctly
marked, even in the ailments of the soldiers. But few deaths
have occurred among the troops during the six weeks of my
connexion with them. Nearly every one of these seemed to

0 CAMP, MARCH AMD BATTLE-FIELD.
have occurred from diseases of the brain — brain fever. This
type of disease is, no doubt, largely aided hy over and long-
continued excitement. Our regiment, in Camp Scott, at York,
was as comfortably quartered as it well could be, having com
fortable shelter, good water, pure air, and plenty of wholesome
food. Yet, after a stay of nearly six weeks, drilling, and wait
ing on the tardy movements of State authorities for equipments,
a settled uneasiness began to manifest itself on almost every
face. New excitements were demanded. All became eager to
be away, they knew not where, nor seemed to care for what.
A longing anxiety was expressed to be at the fighting, if any
of it is to he done.
Though absent — on a hasty visit to Pittsburgh with the
remains of a young soldier who had died — when the order
came for the 13 th Regiment to move to this place, yet I am
informed by an officer that it created a scene of wild excite
ment. The soldiers shouted and yelled, and clapped their
hands, threw up their caps, and brandished their weapons, as
though a great victory were gained in leaving quiet Camp
Scott, and the hospitable people of York.
It would be well, if possible, in some measure to arrest these
excitements and their tendency. They have run far and high
enough. Two months ago there seemed a place for them.
Then, the whole North required to be thoroughly aroused and
alarmed, in order to become properly united, determined and
active. All this has heen fully accomplished. A half million
of men beyond what the government requires could be had for
the asking to fight her battles. All who can exercise an in
fluence in directing and controlling public sympathy and senti
ment, should now exert them to allay excitement. Oil may
well be thrown upon the troubled waters. A shower-bath

THREE MONTHS CAMPAIGN. 9
should be given to the editors of the New York Tribune, He
rald and Times, et id omne genus. Lying sensation reporters
should be handcuffed, telegraph lines muzzled, and operators
put in the guard-house. A wet bandage for the pulpit might
not, perhaps, be out of place. Having earnestly prayed for
success to our arms, let both ministers and laymen unceasingly
beseech God to convert our ungodly soldiers.
Chaplains. — I grieve to find that hardly half a dozen re
giments now in the vicinity of Chambersburg have Chaplains,
or any effort at regular religious instruction. To all the regi
ments, applications have been made for Chaplainships; but when
informed that the Government has made no provision for this
service to her three months' volunteers, these applications are
generally dropped. This going a warfaring at one's own, charges
is neither very agreeable nor quite scriptural. Yet I would that
more of the Lord's servants were here. A great work is open
to he done :. yet, should any brother who would give himself to
this service of the Lord, first count all the cost. Not only
does the Government provide no pay or rations for a Chaplain ;
she makes no provision for transporting either him or his bag
gage. Railroad transportation for the troops stops here. Four regi
ments left this morning on foot for Greencastle. Ours, the
13th, Colonel Rowley's, hourly expects orders to follow. The
pleasing prospect is thus before me of a jaunt on foot. My
propensity for collecting powers and insects may be thus in a
measure gratified while travelling through this beautiful Cum
berland valley.
Should God soon lead us into new scenes and strange events,
if possible, I will continue to give a few weekly items.

10 CAMP, march and battle-field.

Camp Brady, three miles south op Chambersburg, 1
June 12th, 1861. J
Magic City. — Yesterday I saw a city improvised in an hour.
Rows of houses half a mile long, streets and alleys well defined
and filled with the busy hum of living men. A hundred
kitchen fires began to blaze, over which hung kettles and pans,
full of pickled beef and salted pork, with great coffee kettles
*of two or three gallons each. Two hours previously to all this
home life, there stood here this beautiful oak grove, with grassy
sward beneath and no living tenant near save the bird and the
grasshopper. The 13th Regiment was quartered in cattle sheds
in York, and in the same shelter for the past week at Chambers
burg. Yesterday a full supply of new government tents, for
the whole regiment, arrived hy car, and were transferred to hag-
gage wagons. At 1 P. M., yesterday, orders were received to
break up Camp Rowley in the Fair Grounds and take up the
line of march towards Harper's Ferry. It was the first effort for
the hoys on foot beyond the boundaries of the camp. The day
was intensely hot, the sun beat down fiercely, the road was
dusty, the men, though leaving many a seeming necessary arti
cle behind, had too much to carry — great knapsack, overcoat,
haversack, canteen, gun, and accoutrements. As a place of
honor and safety I joined myself to the rear-guard, and had
thus an opportunity of witnessing the effects of the march.
The sun did more than the secessionists are likely to do, over
came a large number of the soldiess. Yet none that I can
learn of were seriously injured.
About three miles on, a camp was ordered in this lovely
spot, and a city with the new tents speedily built. The
boys are delighted. Last night many a tent was vocal accord-

THREE MONTHS CAMPAIGN. 11
ing to the taste of the singers. From one welled up, " Hail,
Columbia!" another, "Dixie's Land," while from a third, "The
Girl I left behind me." In one a Methodist hymn was sung
in full chorus, and in a neighboring one the more staid Psalms
of David arose in song to- heaven.
The encampment should have been called Pittsburgh, as all
the avenues are placarded according to the streets of our smoky.
city. On hoards broken from empty boxes, and nailed on trees
which came in range, are written Penn, Liberty, Wood, Smith-*
field, Washington Street, &c. Our city is to be almost as brief
in duration as erection. Orders are given to have it all taken
down and in marching order hy daylight to-morrow morning.
The lodge of a wayfaring man. Such is human life. Such its
uncertainties; such its passing pleasures.
So far as my observation enables me to judge, the condition
of the 13th Regiment has every way improved within the last
week or two. This gives me much encouragement to continue
still more earnestly my labors, as a wider door is evidently
opening. As apparent active hostilities are near at hand, the
goldiers wear a graver, though not less determined aspect. The
longer I am in this service the more my feelings lead me to
look upon these eight hundred men as my congregation. Some
of them seem rather incorrigible members, and I would be loath
to invite or see them at the Lord's table ; — yet my prayer is,
that they may all be saved. And this feeling increases with
the thought that many of them may soon be called to meet
God in judgment.

12 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.

Camp Hitchcock, Berkeley Co., Va., 1
June 16th, 186.1. J
Strange Sabbath-keeping. — No Lord's day in times of
war. The need for all this common use of holy time may seem
in place to military men; yet have I not been able to discern
why it could not be in general avoided. Last night we en
camped in Maryland, two miles from Williamsport, on the Poto
mac. The spot was one of unusual beauty and fitness for such
a service. The light broke on us with unwonted quietness,
and our expectation was to spend the day in rest and religious
exercise. Some morning exercises were held, and preparations
for public worship made. At ten o'clock, however, the bugle
suddenly sounded to strike tents and he ready to march.
An Army is Truly a Great Machine. — A locomotive,
all its varying parts, living, intelligent, and working in harmony
with one another. When the trumpet sounded to prepare for
march, a beautiful, well-ordered, wide-extended city of ten
thousand inhabitants stretched through all the neighborhood —
over field and meadow, wood and valley. The inhabitants were
engaged in a thousand varied employments. Eating, sleeping,
talking, laughing, reading, singing, praying. In half an hour
the city had disappeared. The houses were all in wagons and
on the road; the ten thousand inhabitants were all in military
order and with bristling bayonets ready for battle.
Grand Military Display. — Never has it been my lot to
witness so general a display of order and strength, beauty and
romance, as to-day. Without any of the soldiers knowing the
destination, the immense columns commenced filing into the

THREE MONTHS CAMPAIGN. ' 13
a road leading down to Williamsport near by. Cavalry and in
fantry, artillery and baggage wagons, followed each other. Down
. through the town, over the long sloping banks of the beautiful
river, and to the water's edge of the Potomac, which divides
Virginia from Maryland. No halt was ordered, but on went
the grand cavalcade, straight Into the river. Skiffs, boats and
bridges had all heen destroyed by the enemy. With tremen
dous shouts and cheering the soldiers waded into the river — to
the ankle, to the knees, to the loins, and to the waist, — on they
waded, and shouted through the clear-flowing stream. On it
went in a seemingly endless stream of four men deep. Our 13th
Regiment had the honor of being near the front of the column.
Walking in its front rank, I stepped into the famous old river
with hoots and clothes on, and hugely enjoyed a splashing and
dabbling, waist deep, to the opposite shore, and invaded old
Virginia. On and up the steep bank and away over the rising,
swelling ground, advance the invading army. Not a secession
ist appeared to stop its progress, not a dog moved his tongue.
When nearly a mile up the rising ground, I stopped to rest
under the shade of a tree, and look on the panorama behind.
What a vision ! For three miles, down to the river, across, up
the opposite bluffs, and away over into Maryland, could be dis
tinctly seen that moving mass of men four deep. As it faded
away in the distance, the column seemed like an enormous ser
pent, twisting round the bends of the road across the river, up
and down the various ridges of hills, as they sank and swelled
away into the distance. More than a dozen large bands
rolled up inspiring music at the head of each regiment.
Had the eye of Jeff. Davis, or any other intelligent secesssion-
ist rested on this vision, the idea of physical resistance against
it must have at once died within him.
2

14 camp, march and battle-field.
About two o'clock the head of the column, in which our
regiment is, halted and pitched tents o» rising ground some
two miles west of the river. For four hours the column has
been coming on, and encamping, and still as I write it comes.
Never before were these quiet old fields and woods of Virginia
waked up with such a living excitement. Whither we are to
move on to-morrow, I have neither asked nor have any infor
mation. The news in camp is that Harper's Ferry has been
burnt and abandoned. If so, we may have in our advance an
opportunity of surveying these beautiful mountains and valleys
of the Old Dominion. Poor old Virginia ! I feel truly sad for
her present deplorable condition.
Monday Morning, June 17th. — Notwithstanding the great
excitements of yesterday, thus banishing all seeming thought
of its being Sabbath, we got sufficiently quieted in camp to
have interesting evening religious exercises. Elisha's request
of Elijah must be granted to any heart which does not grieve
away the Holy Spirit in scenes like these. All is life and
bustle, and preparation for another march.

Martinsburg, Ya., July 5th, 1861.
Advance to Martinsburg. — In my last, complaint was made
about the growing monotony of camp life, and the consequent
lack of any item of interest. The waters which appeared for a
week or two to become stagnant, have suddenly been put in
motion. Orders were issued on Monday to break the en
campment and prepare to march. The hurry and bustle with
which the waiting invalids were hurried into the turbid waters

three months campaign. 15
at Bethesda, at the angel's visit, could hardly form a comparison
with the activity of the soldiers, on the reception of this order.
On Tuesday morning, the 2d inst., at three o'clock, the advance
column commenced fording the Potomac, opposite Williamsport.
Twenty thousand men — cavalry, infantry, and artillery, with five
hundred large baggage- wagons, were ready to, invade the Old
Dominion. For six long hours the magnificent parade moved
down to the river, across the ford, up the opposite banks, and
hid itself away among the woods and valleys of Virginia. Our
regiment was detailed to protect a battery on the Maryland side,
and guard Williamsport, and did not cross until the morning of
the Fourth. An opportunity was thus afforded me, while seated
on a high bluff, for witnessing the entire length of the line.
Regiments from Wisconsin and Maine, Michigan and Rhode
Island, Pennsylvania and Connecticut, all blended together in
one grand and seemingly invincible mass of physical strength.
The regiments- which had crossed to Virginia twenty days since,
and returned, went back with their bands playing, " 0 carry me
hack to Old Virginny." The others marched to the sound of
" Dixie's Land."
Battle or Falling Water. — About six miles over, the
rebels were posted in considerable strength, and opened a brisk
fire of cannon and musketry on the advance regiments. After
a brief encounter, they retreated behind Martinsburg. One
young man, from Milwaukie, Wis., was instantly killed by a
Minnie ball through the heart. About a dozen were wounded.
How many were lost by the rebels, has not been ascertained.
It seems marvellous, where thousands of shots were exchanged
in sight of each other and within musket range, that so few
were injured. The body of the young man who fell was sent

16 camp, march and battle-field.
back to Williamsport. Our regiment, with its brass band,
turned out and buried him with martial honors. Nearly all the
people of Williamsport, also, assembled at the place of inter
ment. Ere the body was lowered into the grave, and while I
was addressing the soldiers and citizens, a little girl approached,
bearing a large, and beautiful bouquet of flowers, and laid it
upon the breast of the dead soldier. The act was simple, yet
so touching, it seemed to strike a cord of tenderness in the
hearts of all present. Many a soldier who appeared reluctant
that his companions should see him" weep, hung his head,
while the tear stole down his cheek. Though neither former
friend nor relative was present to mourn, strangers sorrowed
over the burial of the brave young stranger, who had come
twelve hundred miles from home to fight the battles of his
country, and die among strangers. His blood, which watered
the soil of Virginia, was the first fruits for Union from the noble
young State of Wisconsin. It has not been poured out in vain.
Celebration of the Fourth. — Yesterday morning our re
giment was ordered forward. Quite a patriotic celebration of
the glorious Fourth was it, to march thirteen miles through
sun and dust, from Williamsport to Martinsburg. Quite ex
tensive preparations had been made for celebration on the Maiy
land side of the Potomac. Your correspondent was honored by
a selection as orator ofthe day.
"The best laid schemes o' mice aoid men
Gang aft agley.*'
All was cut short hy an order to cross the Potomac at sun
rise. The literary world has no doubt suffered loss at the non
delivery of the oration. Though full of matter in the morning,
a long, fatiguing march has evidently so compressed the mate-

THREE MONTHS CAMPAIGN. 17
rial as to be retained, without inconvenience, until another
Fourth of July.
On our march, we passed over the battle-ground of the 2d.
Brief and limited as was the strife, yet were sad and too evident
traces left of war's desolating scourge. A fine farm' was left a
ruin. Barns, sheds, fences all burned. House riddled with
cannon-balls. Wheat fields, ripe for the sickle, level as a floor,
from the passage of regiments of horse, foot and artillery.
Articles of clothing, knapsacks, canteens, all manner of camp
articles lay scattered over the ground, and no one caring to pick
them up. Such is war.
Our regiment is now at the front of this grand division. The
enemy are said to be strongly posted, a few miles in advance.
If so, and they wait to fight, there will no doubt be a bloody
field to commemorate the meeting. Our soldiers are hourly
expecting the bugle-call to advance, and are eager for the fray.
When I look upon these multitudes of brave, but, alas ! too
many of them, wicked men, all eager for hattie, and reflect that
I may be shortly called upon to bury many of their mangled
bodies, the thought comes full of sadness. The poet's requiem

is suggested :-

"Man's inhumanity to man
Makes countless thousands mourn.'

Vandalism of Rebels. — One qualification these seces
sionists evidently possess in no ordinary perfection, is — they are
great at destruction : admirable at pulling down. Those old
Goths and Vandals are likely to lose their long-boasted pre
eminence as destroyers and defacers. Coming ages will no
doubt use "secessionist" as a synonym with Vandal and Hun.
I have to-day walked through the saddest scene of deliberate

18 camp, march and battle-field.
ruin ever before witnessed. The Baltimore and Ohio railroad,
which passes through Martinsburg, has here a machine-shop,
depots, etc. When travel on the road was broken up, there
were collected in this no less than forty-eight locomotives, with
a number of passenger, freight, and coal cars. The rebel troops,
quartered in the town, having evidently the impression that it
would soon be in the possession of the Union army, determined
to leave a memorial behind them. About two weeks ago, the
lazy rascals, with considerable labor, carried large piles of wood,
accumulated for the use of the railroad, and piled it round, un
der and over each one of the forty-eight engines, and set them
on fire. The ruin is complete. As I walked beside the long
rows of charred, bent, rusty locomotives, they reminded me of
some vast museum of huge mammoth skeletons. A machinist,
from our regiment, who was in company, gave it as his opinion
that they were wholly useless — that it would cost about as much
to repair one of them, as to make a new one. A curious pile of
iron springs, straps, screws and ashes, marked the place where
each passenger car had been burned. Piles of coal were still
burning. If there be still a secessionist living in Martinsburg,
there are greater fools in the world than I had supposed.

Martinsburg, Ya., July 13, 1861.
Fogyism in Camp. — Men may change their State bounda
ries, their climate, and their occupations, but not their nature.
" Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots?"
Old Fogyism, will be old Fogyism anywhere. Bending the
knee to the proud behests of slavery has become such a habit

"THREE. MONTHS CAMPAIGN. 19
with northern men occupying high places, and that for many
years, that the present wonderful revolution seems hardly com
petent to shake them loose from their degradation, and jostle
them into freedom of action. Dreamy boasters over our armies
marshalling for Union and Liberty, may imagine that all these
filthy bandages have been broken. Had all such dreamers,
however, been here, yesterday, their inflations might have been
punctured hy a trifling, somewhat ludicrous, yet significant in
cident. Skinner. — Employed at head-quarters of the Thirteenth
Regiment — is a genial sort of a being, master of all business;
waiter, cook, hostler, and errand boy. We call him " Skinner."
The hot sun of Virginia has no power to darken the complexion
of said Skinner; only causing it to glow with a deeper ebony.
Skinner is a general favorite. By various honest means said
master of ceremonies has eome into possession of several, rather
damaged articles of soldier's wear, in the shape of an old uni
form, pants, with military cap, of the Pennsylvania order. A
trusty old sword is also his by donation. In addition to home
duties, Skinner occasionally rides the Colonel's horse to water,
and on errands into the town. On such occasions the military
dress is donned, and the rusty old sword not unfrequently
dangles at his side. Skinner, thus attired, rode said charger,
yesterday afternoon, with more than ordinary parade into town.
Time passed, and Skinner returned not. What could have
happened to Skinner 1 Could he have seceded with the Colo
nel's horse ? or be dallyiog with ebony dulcinea in the famous
old town ? m Word at length came that Skinner was in limbo.
Actually seized and placed in the Guard-house (army jail) by
order of the Provost Marshal of Martinsburg, under direction

20 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
of our military commanders. What can Skinner have done ?
was eagerly asked by all. Has he killed a secessionist, insulted
some pompous military official ; or acted up some other miscel
laneous wickedness ? Skinner's previous good behaviour pre
cluded such suspicions. The matter must be looked into. Alas,
the truth ! That unfortunate old military cap, that dilapidated
uniform, that rusty sword ! They occasioned all the disaster.
An unfortunate order had been issued from head-quarters,
of which poor Skinner, until the moment of his arrest, un
horsing while parading through the town, was wholly ignorant.
The sublime military mandate was of this import : " That no
ebony biped, no frizzle head, no darkie, being an attache of
the army, should wear any article of military dress, or carry
any kind of weapon offensive or defensive." Does the reader
inquire for the great occasion of State policy, the important
military consideration prompting such grave legislation ? No
other reason can suggest itself, than as a pander to this inexo
rable spirit of Slavery— in order to sooth these F. F. V.'s, these
traitor slaveholding secessionists among whom we now are. It
might be a manifold misfortune, were the two-legged chattels
to see one of their own color strut in an old uniform, or dangle
at his side an" old rusty sword.
In all seriousness, this is contemptible. Twenty-five thou
sand armed men kept tended for ten days in the burning sun,
and in sight of the enemy, with every soldier panting to ad
vance, and the powers that be engaged in legislating about so
grave a matter as to what kind of clothes negro-servants shall
wear. Not only were ludiorous scenes, as in tho case of Skinner, enacted by
our officers at Slavery's behest, while at Martinsburg, but things far more
degrading and heart-sickening.

THREE MONTHS CAMPAIGN. 21
Slaves, in their ignorance, occasionally endeavored to find sholter from
oppression within our camp. It was not unfrequent to see a Union officer
with a posse of soldiers carefully searching through the tents of the soldiers-
where the trembling bondman had vainly endeavored to hide himself, drag
ging him out and conveying him to Martinsburg jail, there to be claimed at
leisure by his master.
Granny Patterson, as the soldiers facetiously called our General, was in
command; and Fitz. John Porter, one of his chief military counsellors.
No marvel, with such heroic and onerous camp duties that General Johnston
was allowed to slip away unmolested from "Winchester, in order to decide
the fortunes of battle at Bull Run.
Martinsburg. — Martinsburg is a sedate, irregularly built
old Virginia town, containing from appearance about five thou
sand inhabitants. Some notables are among its people. Am
bassador Faulkner, who has misrepresented this country for the
past four years ' at the court of ^France, resides here, or did till
compelled to fly for fear of his neck at the approach of the Union
army. He has a fine mansion, and large landed possessions.
Sentinels from our army now protect his property from present
inj ury . Congress can settle whether the possessions of these trai
tors are to be confiscated or not. Porte Crayon (Col. Strothers,)
famous as a lively sketch writer for Harper's Weekly, has also
his residence here, a quaint, old, roomy mansion. He is re
ported a Union man. The Secessionist troops, before our
coming, took possession of his hodse, removed his furniture
to the upper rooms, and made a hospital of his parlors. We
have now several of our sick in the same spacious and comfort
able ' apartments. A sentinel carefully prevents any access to
the upper rooms.
Picket Alarms. — A town has no very enviable situation
when lying between two hostile armies, ready to open fire on each

22 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
other at any hour of the day or night. Such is Martinsburg at
present. Our encampment is on the Potomac side, and that of
the enemy some miles on the other. Twenty-five hundred pic
kets and sentinels each night watch our encampment for miles
around. The soldiers are watchful, excitable, and inexperienced.
At night, the horse, cow, dog, or even shaking bush, that will
not respond to the challenge of the sentinel, is sure to get a
Minnie bullet whizzed at it. One gun discharged, causes the
neighboring sentry to fire — then bang, bang, crash, crash go
the sentinels and squads of pickets for a circuit of long miles
through woods and fields. Up bounds the whole army, from
thousands of tents and -bivouacs, and, in less time than it takes
to write of it, all are arrayed in order of battle. Such an
alarm in the darkness is truly grand, yet happening rather too
frequently. I have a renewed enjoyment at each recurrence.
Not so, however, the poor townsfolk. Women and children
spring from their beds, or are startled from uneasy slumbers,
rush into cellars and other hiding-places, or run into the streets
with frantic cries, vainly looking for some place of supposed
safety. The reader may, perhaps, ask, Why have not all the
inhabitants long since fled away ? How, and where could
they ? Ere our coming, the rebels effectually destroyed their
only railroad. For long miles every other way is effectually
blocked or guarded, thus hindering ingress or egress. With all
their dangers, the people are about as safe at home as though-
they made an effort to run away.
Granny, and Little Ones. — After such a night's alarm,
I lately called on a family in the suburb, with whom an ac
quaintance had been formed. A mother, with a large squad
of little hopefuls, and a grandmother graced the household.

THREE MONTHS CAMPAIGN. 23
During the past night's alarm, Granny had seized a little
youngster under each arm, ran out into a little quiet cranny,
and staid all night. At my*coming, the old Methodist grand-
dame had but lately come in with her hopefuls. "Ah, Brother
Stewart," said the old lady, with a lugubrious but to me rather
comic air, " laws me, I wish I was in heaven." Looking at her,
with all the gravity which could be summoned, my response
was, " Dear old mother, I do wish you were." With a sudden
start, her answer hardly seemed to appreciate my pious wish.
"But, laws me, what then would become of these poor grand
children t" This was simple nature. The old man with his
bundle of sticks and death over again. We parted, with mu
tual wishes for a return of peace to our beloved but distracted
country. Such scenes would reconcile to the most tender and benevo
lent of hearts, a desire to see Henry A. Wigei witn a hundred
other such arch-traitors, hung. Thousands of such lives could
not atone for the numberless calamities they have needlessly
brought upon poor old Virginia.

Charlestown, Jefferson Co., Va., July 17th, 1861.
John Brown. — Shades of old John Brown ! Here sits your
correspondent, on the identical spot, where less than two years
since, the Chivalry of Virginia, with Henry A. Wise, as its head
and Governor, aided by a large military force, hung a strange,
enigmatical, unyielding old fanatic. Wise, and Virginia, under
stood, at the time, John Brown's raid, better far than did we of
the North. Their terror, at which we laughed, was not so much

24 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.'
misplaced. In that insignificant fray, they beheld visions of
armed men, infantry, cavalry, and artillery, crowding down
from the North, and filling every* mountain-pass into the Old
Dominion. All this, in order to overturn her debasing arid
growingly effete institution. Over the matter, Wise dreamed
dreams, and saw visions, became excited, raved, swaggered, and
threatened. He shook Old Virginia to its centre, and evoked
a boastful display of military strength, merely because an old
man, with less than twenty, apparently crazed followers, had
invaded her sacred soil. Wise, however, was the true Seer,
and we, the ignorant, and unobservant. Had all the Prophets,
from Enoch down to John and Jude, arisen from the dead,
and prophesied, on the day that Brown was hung, that, within
two years, the realities on which my eyes now look, would take
place, I with all others, would have looked upon them, as mes
sengers sent from the pit to deceive. In the beautiful, undula
ting fields, and woodlands, around the spot where Brown and
his confederates were hung, is now encamping a Northern army
of thirty thousand strong. Regiments from Wisconsin and
Maine ; Indiana and New Hampshire ; Ohio and Massachusetts,
Pennsylvania and New York, are now quietly pitching their
tents around this poor, guilty secession town, and not a dog
daring to wag his tongue. And for what has this Northern
array of battle come ?
Beyond perad venture, in order substantially to carry out the
great design of John Brown's insignificant raid. True, it may
be, that multitudes of soldiers, in this Northern army, may now
little understand, or even believe this. But when the true his
tory of the present great Revolution shall be correctly written,
some future Macaulay will chronicle that Old John Brown
threw the first bomb, discharged the first cannon, and thrust

THREE MONTHS CAMPAIGN. 25
the first bayonet. Till then, rest in peace, brave spirit, and
trust to posterity for a vindication of your deed. The reproach
of a culprit's fate, and death by the hangman's rope, will not
disturb thy repose.
Our troops had orders last night to he ready for marching by
day-break this morning. In the eager expectation of meeting
the enemy at Winchester, early in the day, little sleeping was
done through very eagerness for a fight. However, through
some military ruse or blunder, early in the morning, the head
of the column instead of marching direct to Winchester, took
the road leading to this place, (Charlestown, county seat of
Jefferson County, Va.) From Bunker Hill, where we tented
last night, to this place, is thirteen miles. From here to Win
chester, is twenty miles; while in the morning we were only
twelve miles distant from it. Whatever may be the intent or
result of this movement, the Lord has evidently designed that
this great Northern army should encamp around this spot. A
place, which will remain famed in annals, and sacred in the
memory of millions of hearts; and this, notwithstanding the
sneers of Northern doughfaces, or the reproaches of Southern
slaveholders. I marched with our Regiment during the
morning, and for about half the journey. When a brief halt
was ordered for rest, I walked on through heat and dust, ar
riving here about 1 P. M. The people are rabid secessionists.
Men and women looked savagely at me, as I walked through
the streets. As several of our regiments were already encamp
ing within sight, any terror of them was not much before my
eyes; otherwise, from their appearance, this Abolition Chaplain
would have certainly been devoured in a trice. Approaching
a group of gentlemen and ladies, who occupied a piazza of the
best-looking house on main street, I introduced myself with the
3

26 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
inquiry, "Can you point out to me the precise spot where -Old
John Brown was hung ? " Blood and daggers, revenge and
hatred, scorn and fear, were all concentrated in the look which
was centred on me. What their tongues might have uttered,
deponent saith not, as at this moment a company of Uncle'
Sam's Dragoons galloped along the street. Having a seeming
prudential conception, as to how matters were now conditioned,
an elderly gentleman, pointing with his finger, in a certain di
rection, said: "It was out there!" Not content, however,
with vagaries, the question was pressed, until a guide was fur
nished, and the identical spot pointed out. A fine growth of
corn now covers the place of execution. Returning to the town,
I made inquiry for the jailer, and asked permission to take a
look in the old prison. No prisoner at present occupies the dingy
cell where Old John was confined. A broken stool, a rickety
table, an old bed-quilt with plenty of dust, are the only furniture.
Traces of the old man's pencil, together with that of his com
panion Stephens', are yet traceable on the walls, in the texts of
scripture and quaint sentences. Within this long, narrow, dirty
cell, with its double row of grated windows, was confined for
weeks, a spirit, as true to its convictions of right, as the world
has ever witnessed. He never bragged, never boasted, never
reproached, never retorted, never yielded a hair's breadth, nor
made a request of his captors. His Bible was his only coun
sellor. When visited by the Clergy of Charlestown; when
under sentence, and asked if he desired spiritual counsel:
" None from any ministers who do not pray against slavery."
The same query was repeated, when starting for the place of
execution. " No prayers for me, by' any friends of slavery !"
When on the scaffold ! Have you any thing to say ? was in
quired of him : " No ! you are going to hang me, and do it ! "

THREE MONTHS CAMPAIGN. 27
And, so saying, he bent that gray head into the noose, which
had never before been bent to any creature, save his God ! In
spite of itself, Virginia felt that in dying, Old John conquered.
Ever since, the impression has been deepening, and deepens
still, that, in the strange interlude of his life, at Harper's Ferry
and Charlestown, the' stern Old Puritan conquered ! I also
visited the cell of Coppie and young Cook; saw where they
dug out under the old grated window, got out on the old rick
ety wall, and were driven back by the balls and bayonets of
the sentinels.
Charlestown, has, from appearance, about fifteen hundred
inhabitants; and is a type of most Virginia towns, having
been finished for at least a quarter of a century. It is located
in the midst of a fair agricultural, and most picturesque coun
try, eight miles west of Harper's Ferry.
At Home. — On the 22d of July, the day following the battle
of Bull Run, our three months' term expired. The regiment
being then at Harper's Ferry, was ordered home to Pittsburg,
Pa., and there mustered out of service.
A new regiment was at once organized, embracing many of
the former officers and privates, and was designated by its mem
bers " the Old Thirteenth." So soon as organized, and, before
entirely filled, it was hurried on to Washington; as the jubilant
rebels, since their success at Bull Run, were supposed to be
threatening our capital.
In the enjoyment of home, friends, and congregation, after
the three months' absence, it became a subject of deep interest
and anxious thought, whether to resume the quiet duties of
pastor, or renew, for a much longer period, the chaplain service.
Numerous considerations urged to the former more tranquil and

28 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
easy course; yet had the three months' service afforded much
insight with respect both to the importance and difficulties of
introducing and maintaining, as well as extending, the religion
of Jesus in camp. These balancings continued until, without
any solicitation or even asking on my own part, an election
and cordial invitation was tendered to go as chaplain with the
new regiment in the three years' service. This seemed as God's
indication to duty. Household effects were disposed of at auc
tion, my two children committed to the care of relatives, my
congregation resigned to the oversight of Presbytery, and my
self again in camp early in September.
Several applications at this time were made by publishers of
religious journals for regular contributions to the press. In
yielding to these requests, no thought was entertained that ere
the war ended material would thus be accumulated sufficient
for a volume. Yet, in the intervening years no attempt has
been made to sketch for the press even the half of what has pre
sented itself as strange and new, interesting and instructive.
The ever -varying conditions of military life are constantly
bringing before the observant eye things that are hopeful and
depressing, joyous and sorrowful; things full of health and
abounding in sickness; things full of life, with overwhelming
death; changes sudden and startling, yet with a sameness
amounting often to monotony. With truthfulness, it can be
affirmed that nearly four years' intimate commingling with every
variety of camp and army life and influence, has neither clogged
nor exhausted a constantly varying fund of material for inte
resting and instructing others.

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 29

CHAPTER II.
Iftasfuitgttftt m& f icittitg.
SEPTEMBER, 1861, TO JANUARY, 1862.
Meridian Hill, Washington, D. C, 1
Sep. 20, 1861. /
Imagination is a blessed gift of God. How we live in it,
revel in it, delight ourselves in it ! Through it the soul is re
galed with flowers of every hue, and scented with odors of every
fragrance. By it the heart is often refreshed with things more
real than reality itself. Happy compensation this, to those who
are compelled to stay at home. They have, most frequently,
the larger share of enjoyment. Their imaginings of distant
persons, places and things, are ever much above the reality.
Thus more to them than to those who see. It has never been
my happiness to see, for the first time, a famed person, a noted
object, or historic place, without feelings of disappointment, and
these often sore ones — so much did the ideal excel the original.
Hardly a sarcasm was it, uttered by that sarcastic old curmud
geon, that "no man was great in the eyes of his own valet."
The child's disappointment was natural, carried on its father's
shoulder, in the midst of a crowd, to see General Washington
pass. The multitude clapped and shouted, yet did the child
look in vain for the wonderful personage. In the midst of the
tumult, it shouted out: " Where's Washington, pa?" "There,
child. That's he." "No, pa, no. That's not Washington.
Why that man is just like any body else!"
8*

80 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
Our Capital-— Well, I have seen Washington, and been
disappointed. Have seen, for the first time, this noted centre
of wealth and wisdom, of power and influence, belonging to that
famous old gentleman, called "Uncle Sam." John Randolph
designated this same place, "the city of magnificent distances."
Since then it has no doubt partially filled up. Yet still it may
fairly be defined by the young lady's comparison of her admirer's
beard. Dandy must have whiskers. That he would. The
entire surface where the bristling material ought to shoot out
was }eft untouched by a razor with a Nazarite's fidelity. Softly,
slowly, and thinly grew out the coveted adornment. After
months of coaxing and brushing, he ventured to ask his adored
her opinion of the manly excrescence. " Grand," was her reply ;
" it reminds me of the western country." " Superb comparison,
miss; but the application?" "Why, extensively laid out, but
thinly settled."
In the erection of public buildings, this same old gentleman's
purse has been depleted by so many milhons, that it seems a
marvel there is any thing left wherewith to carry on the pre
sent war. Yet, certainly, the show is very meager for the
cash. The Capitol, — Centre of the nation's attractions and glory,
even at pictures of which millions of our children daily gaze in
happy, credulous ignorance, as geography lessons are recited to
miss or pedagogue — this great capital building, in which such
countless millions have already been sunk ! Since coming, I
have gazed at it miles off, in order to get admiration excited ;
gazed at it near at hand; gazed at it from front, and rear, and
angles ; gazed upon it from the dome, — and still the impression
made upon my mind is that of a great swelled toad, with the
dome as the hunch on its back.

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 31
The capitol has, however, been at length turned to good ac
count — the best service it has perhaps ever rendered. The
basement, with all the entrances to it, has been converted into
an immense bakery, — whence now, on the top of the building,
instead of, as when Congress sits, the mingled stench of tobacco
smoke and spittle, with the effluvia of rotten politicians, there
comes steaming up each flue and chimney the refreshing odors
of baking or nearly baked bread. By special inquiry, I learned
that no less than seventy thousand loaves were each day baked
in these ovens. An estimate may, perhaps, thus be formed as
to how many troops are at present in and about Washington.
The Government furnishes each soldier two loaves per week,
each loaf weighing twenty-two ounces, making for each man
two days' bread-rations. The other five days of the week, the"
soldiers get hard bread crackers. These ovens, during six days
of the week, turn out seventy thousand loaves per day. How
many soldiers are here ?
- As a mere military position, Washington is certainly of no
importance whatever, — and, beyond doubt, one of the most
difficult to be successfully defended. It is in a poor, starved
section of country — an out-of-the-way place, an altogether one
sided position for the capital of the United States; — this, too,
even though the integrity of the Union be preserved. Ere long
the capital must be removed far to the North-west. Had it not
been for the name of the thing, the secession rebels could, per
haps, have done the country no greater- service than to have
taken the city, and blown up the whole concern, — high as a
kite. Had they got possession, this would undoubtedly have
been done. For them to have held it, would have been impos
sible. Lite Harper's Ferry, as an untenable point,. it would
soon have been burned and abandoned. It is only the over-

32 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
whelming Union force which now holds, and will, of course,
continue to keep possession of our National Capital.
There is an additional reason why it would seem to be a work
both of justice and mercy to have the place purified by fire, or
some such effective process. It has of late years become so
enormously full of venality, rascality, and all manner of cor- •
rupting influences, that the very walls have become spotted as
with leprosy of old, so that nothing but fire may have power to
purify. Great as that father of his country was, it has become
manifest that he did not know every thing. One special reaT
son urged by him for having the capital located in such an out-
of-the-way place as this, was to have our legislators removed
from the overshadowing influences, as well as the vices, of large
cities. What would be his conclusions, did he live in his own
city now? The drunkenness and debaucheries of the British
Parliament pass in a great measure for London sins. Were the
sessions of our Congress held in Philadelphia or New York,
much of its pollution would be absorbed, almost unnoticed, hy
these great sinks, as a sponge drinks up water. Now, however,
they stand out in all their native ugliness, known and read of
all men, and poor little Washington not large enough either to
hide or absorb.
Military Life Lawful. — If this warfaring business he,
under any conditions, lawful — and of this we are at present
troubled with no misgivings, — it must needs be possible to have
the religion of Christ also in the camp. Wherever it is law
ful for his children to be, there has God promised, if duly in
voked, to send his sanctifying, as well as converting Spirit.
More grace is no doubt required to live a Christian in camp,
than at home in the city or the country.

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 33
Yet will those who have the grace granted be better Chris
tians ? God never wastes his means. By better, is meant more
good done. This is God's approved way of comparison : " By
their works ye shall know them." The worst specimens of hu
manity may, no doubt, be found in our armies. May God, in
mercy, send the best. In ordinary life, the very worst characters
are found in cities. The best, too, are there found. The
Christian professor, doing business in a city with a capital of
ten thousand dollars, will give one hundred dollars annually to
benevolent objects; while one of equal wealth, in the country,
will esteem himself quite liberal, while giving fifteen or twenty.
Each acts according to the pressure upon him. All the Chris
tian graces have to be pressed out, as the scented oil from the
bruised kernel.
The Religious Aspects of our regiment appear encoura
ging. Two companies, of a hundred men each, have regular
family worship both morning and evening. What a rebuke to
many a professed Christian family at home ! The captains of
these companies worshipped God in their households Here, as
Centurions, they have not abandoned the morning and evening
sacrifice of prayer and thanksgiving. God bless them for moral
courage ; for their true, manly, soldierly Christianity. This is
"standing up for Jesus." At the roll-call, the company is ar
ranged on three sides of a square. The captain, or some one
deputed to conduct the service, stands on the remaining side.
A chapter is read, a few verses sung, and prayer offered.
Orders have heen issued by the regimental commander, that
when these exercises are going on, no unnecessary noise shall be
made in camp. How abundantly blessed of the Lord would our

34 camp, march and battle-field.
regiment be, were each of the other eight captains provoked
to a like love, zeal and good works.
On Sabbath I preached in camp for the first time, under the
new organization. The entire regiment was out, in full dress,
equipments, and in military order. It was a beautiful sight.
The utmost order and decorum were manifested. The text
was — "Godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise
of the life that now is, and of that which is to come." The ob-
ject of the sermon was to persuade every soldier that the most
profitable thing for him, in camp-life, was the religion of
Jesus. Our regiment is at present encamped on Meridian Hill, in
the northern suburbs of the city, — a beautiful location, truly.
On every side, scenes which might be called enchanting, meet
the vision. The tent and the soldier seem almost omnipresent,
if not omnipotent. The old wizard-prophet who stood on the
top of Peor, overlooking the plains of Jordan, where lay en
camped the whole nation of Israel, had a taste for the beautiful,
when he exclaimed: "How goodly are thy tents, Oh! Jacob,
and thy tabernacles, Oh ! Israel. As valleys are they spread
forth, as gardens by the river-side, as trees of lign aloes which
the Lord hath planted, and as cedar trees beside the waters."

Camp Holt, near Washington, D. C, Sept. 30, 1861.
The Patent Office. — The tenor of my last letter may
have inclined your readers to class me with the grumblers,
the fault-finders, or, even worse, with those who have no taste
for the beautiful, and unable to distinguish between a well-

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 35
proportioned building and a mere pile of stones. To avert such
a calamity, permit an endeavor to redeem my own good name,
and that of Washington together. Two visits of much interest
have lately been made to the Patent Office.
The Patent Office — and what about it ? — One of our
good old Uncle Samuel's fine marble buildings, which, may be,
cost the old gentleman four million of dollars. Rather goodly
is it to look upon, being both long and wide; yet, like the
Capitol, squat for the space occupied. " But what's inside ?"
The generous design of the immense establishment is, that,
when a person has concocted, within his curious cranium, the
plan of some new machine, working out a model with his
hands, — which, after due trial, proves a labor-saver, — a thing
calculated to increase knowledge and promote human comfort, —
that same person has a right to a fair amount of the profits to
be derived from the construction and sale of the new machine.
If, however, every one have an equal right to manufacture
and sell, the plodding, next-door neighbor to the inventor,
may be the better carpenter or machinist, who, so soon as the
model be seen, may construct and undersell; thus, perchance,
leaving the world's benefactor to die in poverty. To this the
Government says,, " No." " The inventor shall have, for a
specified time, the exclusive right to make and sell his new
discovery." To insure this, the matter is put in writing, the
seal of State affixed thereto, and the document called a Patent
Right. One condition of this arrangement is, that the inventor
shall deposit, in this marble building, a perfect model of his
machine. And what a collection has already been made ! A
grand museum has it grown to he, compared with which,
Barnum's is but a minor edition. The amount of mind

36 camp, march and BATTLE-FIELD.
here deposited is enormous. What plans, what schemes, what
racking of intellect, what combinations of thought, what
scratching of the head, what gnawing of the nails, what
hopes, fears, joys, sorrows, triumphs — all stowed away in one
building !
No place more full of absorbing interest, both to the philan
thropist and the Christian. The sign's of the times are here.
Every new model entered is a harbinger of the Millennium.
Physical improvements always precede the moral and the
religious. Each labor-saving machine becomes a precursor of
the good time coming — a sure presage that God is lifting off
the curse pronounced upon our race at its expulsion from
Eden. The son, who, at present, performs with ease, in a
single day, the hard months' toil of his father, has no need to
drudge on so constantly with his face to the earth. In granting
him more leisure, God is saying, " Use it; by improving your
intellectual, your- moral and your spiritual being." An ordinary
life is now longer than that of Methuselah. Whole centuries
of past experience and knowledge, can, by the men of this
generation, be compressed into half a score of years. Our
school children glibly repeat truths, and sum up knowledge
which would have startled and confounded Sir Isaac Newton.
Bronzed, gray-haired, stiff-jointed farmer, look here ! You,
who, for so many long years fairly pulled the arms from your
shoulders, as your one acre a day of grass or grain was cut
down with sickle, scythe, or cradle. See that curious-looking
thing ! It is the model of that on which your son leisurely
sits, driving before him a span of horses, and cuts down ten or
fifteen acres of wheat in a day, and does it, too, more neatly
and smoothly than you were ever able.
Grandpa, alight, hitch your horse, and let him rest. You

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 37
have made quite a successful journey across the Alleghenies,
with saddle-bags and Johnny-cake, at thirty miles a day.
Examine this complication of iron fixings. United, it is an
engine, car, and rail track. By their use whole regiments of
men are now carried as far and as safely in an hour as you
have been able to make in a day. Take the saddle and bridle
from your horse, and turn him into quiet pasture for the rest
of his life; When ready to go home, take the " Express Train."
Don't hesitate, Grandpa, but admit frankly that the world has
moved somewhat since you were a boy.
Widow — and you, too, wan, sickly-looking widow's daughter !
Often have you sadly hummed together the song of the shirt ;
as stitch, stitch, stitch, passed away the weary hours, and yet but
a scanty pittance eked out, barely sufficient to keep soul and
body together. Look at this curious little fancy piece of fur
niture ! Sir% over this a song different from the dismal one of
the shirt. This is a sewing-machine. Only first invented in
1842 ; yet since then no less than two hundred and eighty-five
patents have been granted for improvements. By its use, the
daughter can perform with hut slight fatigue, and in the same
time, the labor of twenty-five mothers.
But what will now become of the poor sewing girls and wo
men ? Their occupation gone, they must all needs starve.
Don't be uneasy. God will provide. The world never goes
backward. Something better in store for you than this ever
lasting stitching. Be comforted, and die in peace, mother.
The daughters will be farther up the scale of human ascent than
you have been able to tread.
There seems danger, however, of our getting bewildered.
We must stay our imagination. Though accompanied by an
intelligent guide, a whole year would be insufficient ta pass

38 camp, march AND BATTLE-FIELD.
through all these corrodors, with their numerous cases, and learn
the names and uses of those curious, almost countless, and mar
vellously diversified models of machinery. In a single year, no
less than 3,710 new patents have been granted, and the models
added to the growing collection. Ere long, Uncle Samuel
must add an additional wing to the Patent Office. What new
inventions are in store and hereafter to be conjured from the
ingenious brains of our children, no thoughtful person will dare
to predict. Gazing at what has already heen accomplished, all
things seem possible for the future. But before much additional
progress can be made in patent models, this terrible secession
war must be terminated. Yankee ingenuity has, at present,
found something else to do than plan, in its inventive brain,
new combinations of motive power for advancing the blessings
of peace. Officials in the Patent Office announce, that at pre
sent they have but little business. Many of the clerks are be
ing dismissed. If not too lazy, worthless, and cowardly, they
can shoulder arms for a livelihood, till peace come back, and,
with it, new inventions bless the land.
With respect to war news, I have none to write. You can
obtain much more at your distance, than we are able to collect
here. This physical machine, called an army, still wonderfully
increases in power. The cry is — "Still they come." Regi
ments from the East, the Middle, and the West are daily ar
riving and marshalling themselves, with the already accumu
lating host, for battle. Oh, for a Homer here to sing, as once
he sang of gathering Greeks to besiege devoted Troy !
A few days since, our regiment was again moved. Our en
campment is now about eight miles north-west from the Capitol,
on the Maryland side of the Potomac. This change is, to me,
cause for thankfulness. The change puts us almost beyond the

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 39
reach of city temptations. The days are warm, the nights
chilly — excellent weather, the season, too, and the place, also,
for producing chills and fever; yet have we but one man in
hospital. The Lord's work in camp is not without its evidences
of promise.

Camp Holt, near Washington, D. C. 1
October 8th, 1861. }
Dragons' Teeth. — Moral seed germinates slowly. Spiritual
harvests are reaped, not in May, but in autumn. The lessons
of childhood develop themselves when gray hairs are here and
there upon the head. The grand-children reap the whirlwind,
because their grandsires sowed the wind. God wisely gave an
unchanging law to the vegetable kingdom, when starting its
growth in Eden. " The fruit tree yielding fruit after its kind."
The farmer who ignorantly believes that his wheat sometimes
turns to chess, must study botany in his Bible better. If he
occasionally reaps chess instead of wheat, his ground, his seed,
or his farming was at fault. "Can a fig-tree, my brethren,
bear olive berries?" "Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs
of thistles ?" So surely, and unalterably also, do the seeds of
evil, in due time, bring forth their appropriate fruit. "Sin,
when it is finished, brings forth death." Should an error in
political economy, or a moral wrong, either through ignorance
or intention, be embodied into the constitution and the organic
laws of a nation, it will surely, in the end, prove its ruin, unless,
by due process, it be purged out.
What seed, therefore, planted by our fathers, has produced
the present harvest of wide-spread commotion and alarm?
What wind, sown by that boasted band of revolutionary sires,
that we, their unfortunate offspring, should now be reaping so

40 CAMP, march and BATTLE-FIELD.
plentifully the whirlwind? Did those gray-haired statesmen
and boasted constitution-makers, plant any dragon's teeth, from
which have sprung, in seventy-five years, more than half a mil
lion of armed warriors ? Such queries are of deep significance
to the Christian patriot. By a review of the past, errors, with
their evil consequences, may be avoided, like calamities in the
future. Our lot is now cast in revolutionary times. Happy
will we he, as a nation, if wisdom be granted to winnow out the
chaff, and preserve only the wheat. It may not prove uninte
resting or unprofitable, should a part of this, or succeeding let
ters, be occupied with attention to these themes, which have at
present so much significance. Viewed from the stand-point of
camp life, they may prove no barrier to a distinct vision.
Government Consolidating. — But a more palpable con
solidation at Washington, was presented by the late action of
the old conservative United States Senate. By a single resolu
tion, that highest representative of national opinion and law,
bounded over a whole quarter century of political platforms — of
grave and lengthened resolutions, from delegated conventions,
composed of all shades and sects of parties. All this, too, with
out leave-asking or ceremony. Trampled, also, by the same
action, under its feet, a dozen Presidential inaugurals — Lincoln's
included; buried, out of sight, volumes of congressional enact
ments; ignored its own grave and solemn enactments; annulled
the Nebraska Bill before Douglass was cold in his grave; broke
the right arm ofthe Fugitive Slave Law; cut the gordian knot,
and tore up things in general. And how?
On the 22d of July, 1861, by a vote of thirty-two to six, and
with tho concurrence of the House, it was resolved — That slaves
employed, in any way, in aiding the present rebellion, shall be

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 41
forfeited by their masters — set free. Here, then, is a principle
gravely settled, against decisions of Supreme Courts, the de
clared opinion of all political creeds, platforms and inaugurals.
Each and all, every where and in all places, have been earnest
and emphatic in the assertion, that the General Government
has nothing to do with slavery— no power to touch the delicate
thing — none whatever to manumit a single slave; for if Con
gress could set one free, under any possible contingency, it
could, under conditions which might arise, set all free. The-
thing is exclusively a State concern. Here, however, is the
fatal resolve, now the law ofthe land. "If so and so, the slave
shall be forfeited by his master." The enactment, though per
haps intentionally indefinite, yet, to-day, virtually frees half the
slaves in Virginia. Congress, then, has the right, declares so
by solemn enactment, under certain conditions, to set a slave, in
any given State, free. If one, therefore, all. For the bare as
sertion of this principle, as late as 1842, John Quincy Adams
had well-nigh been hung, both politically and physically; and-
this, too, by political friends" as well as opponents. Now it is
the law of the land. Brave, learned, far-seeing, old man elo
quent, you are vindicated.
It is doubtful whether the Senate waited, at the time, to look
at all the grand consequences of this act. No marvel that the
President, in apparent alarm at the rapidity with which matters
are moving, has checked the legitimate workings of this enact
ment in Fremont's proclamation. The Executive seems desi
rous, first, to see whether the nation be prepared for such rapid
advances. Enough, however, is accomplishing to satisfy all that
matters are fast tending in the direction indicated.

42 camp, march and battle-field.
Startling Revolution in Congress. — After the most
careful scrutiny, the unbiased mind will be forced to admit, that
grounds do exist for- diversity of judgment with respect to the
real nature of our Confederate Government. The Constitution
of the United States — what is it? — a mere compact between the
States; or a document constituting us a combined whole — a
consolidated government. This important matter was left, per
haps intentionally, an unsettled one hy our professedly wise
constitution mongers. So arranged, because the delegates
themselves differed in sentiment, and each could thus interpret
the document to suit his latitude and condition. All this, too,
under the vain expectation that the Constitution, once adopted, all
diversities would soon disappear. Great differences were, how
ever, to be expected. The States-right men, now secessionists,
from this point of vision, offer plausible arguments for their
theory. Those who believe in our Government being a consoli
dation, offered still more and plausible reasons for their conclu
sions. Many circumstances have combined to widen these di
vergencies. The present war is altogether a natural result.
Discussions have been laid aside. The sword is now the arbiter,
and must decide the character of our government — or rather,
perhaps, whether we have a government. To settle this ques
tion thoroughly, will be worth all the present enormous expen
diture of treasure and of blood.
-A casual observer may readily discover, in many of the late
and present executive acts, evidences of increasing consolidation.
When this war is ended, the rebellion crushed out, and the na
tion's power vindicated, the government for the whole American
people will rest upon a basis more solid and compact than hereto
fore. This plea for the present secession, which now shakes to
its centre our nation, in not likely much longer to exist. Ropes

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 43
of sand will be replaced by wire cables, strong enough to sus
tain the whole Union arch. Whether such a result will be
altogether desirable, each one may determine, according to
judgment or choice. The result, however, seems a foregone
conclusion. A year since, many of the late executive and governmental acts
would have been pronounced, by a vast majority of our people,
dangerous encroachments — unconstitutional measures. Now,
however, each true patriot looks upon those seeming assump
tions of power with approbation, and considers them as necessary
to our national existence. As an instance of what we mean —
our Thirteenth regiment, from Pittsburg, was raised by autho
rity from the Secretary of War, and moved directly to Wash
ington, without ever stopping to ask or obtain any direction or
authority from the powers that be at Harrisburg — State-rights
and Pennsylvania Reserve Corps wholly ignored. Nor would
it be of the least consequence, or at all change this interesting
sign of the times,, should the State Executive bluster about this
new movementn-this short-cut to Washington — and even re
fuse to commission the regimental officers. The thing has been
done, and is not about to be undone. The General Government
will commission, should the State refuse. A single example of
this kind- speaks volumes- with respect to the direction matters^
are tending. A year since, such a course would neither have
been thought of nor attempted. Such precedents will stand as
directories for future Executives, while carrying out the laws of
this great and truly United States.

44 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.

Camp Tennelly, Washington, D. C.,\
October 12th, 1861. /
" Great streams from little fountains flow;
Tall oaks from little acorns grow."
- A LITTLE LEAVEN LEAVENETH THE WHOLE LUMP. — A sin
gle soldier, by merely smelling a patient with a small-pox, may
thereby innoculate a whole encampment. Should the anatomist,
who dissects a gangrened body, but puncture the skin of his
finger with the scalpel, he surely pays his own life as the forfeit.
"Behold how great a matter a little fire kindleth!"
From the small license granted by our forefathers to slavery,
has it been fostered and grown into such a monster,- that were
they to arise from the dead and meet it, — in ignorance of the
fact that they begot the unsightly thing, — even in utter amaze
ment and disgust, they would exclaim, as did Satan when meet
ing his own daughter, Sin: —
" Whence and what art thou, execrable shape,
That darest, though grim and terrible, advance
Thy miscreated front athwart my way ?
What thing art thou, thus double-formed, and why
Call'st thou me Father?"
Yet, notwithstanding its hideous aspect, familiarity has seem
ingly banished from the Northern mind all fear, and even re
conciled the masses of the people to the iron rules of the des
pot. Slavery, as was natural when let alone, grew apace, until
it became the one great image before which the land must bow.
All the abettors of the system ever asked of us, — not admiring
its contorted shape, — was to let it and them alone. All that any
devil would ask. "Let us alone !" asked a legion of them, who

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 45
had entered into one poor mortal, and drove him, naked and
phrensied, to dwell among the tombs. "Let us alone!" Cool
impudence ! Happily, however, Christ did not let them alone.
We, on the contrary, have let slavery alone, and now our own
progeny torments and would eat out our bowels.
And now, when the friends of the Union, by an instinct of
. self-preservation, and the maintenance of manhood, have flown
to arms, in order to arrest and break this arrogant power, — why
do those, whose business it is to lead in crushing this secession
heresy, manifest an evident reluctance, a seeming dread, to
strike at the vitals of our assailant ?
Touch Her Asy, Pat. — For fear of offending the treache
rous Border States, to keep in a good humor weak-kneed poli
ticians and Christians of little faith at the North, we must, for
sooth, deal gently with the murderers of our peace. Like
David, in behalf of the rebel traitor, Absalom: "Deal gently,
Joab, for my sake, with the young man, even with Absalom."
Joab, whilst disobeying his sovereign, consulted,. nevertheless,
the true interests of the throne. Deal gently with slavery now ?
It won't let us. As reasonable was the advice given by one of
our Milesian gunners to his messmate. A big gun had been
mounted on one of the newly-erected forts, and was about to be
proved. Many of our new artillery men have but little experi
ence in the science of cannonading. The true son of Erin looked
with some suspicion on the great black log of a gun, — a little
uneasy as to his own proximity to it, and manifesting a whole
some suspicion about the effects of the noise or the scattered
fragments, should the ugly thing explode. So, when his com
panion, as ordered, drew near to apply the match: "See, now,
Pat," shouted the cautious friend, "that you touch her asy!"

46 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
With all due deference to the powers that be, there does seem
to be too much of Pat's policy with this big gun, Slavery.
"Touch her asy!" lest, perchance, she explode, and blow us
all into undistinguishable fragments. The President's late un
fortunate interference — unfortunate for himself when his his
tory shall be written — with Fremont's proclamation, was a sad
instance ofthe "touch-her-asy" pohcy.
Our Good President. — Give the President all honor for
being an honest man and good President, but a great one he is
not, nor does it seem likely that he will prove himself such.
He has proved himself merely capable of honestly following the
beatings of the great Northern heart, as they become manifest.
Never has he said or done aught betokening the great leader —
nothing to show himself capable either of originating a grand,
new thought, or scheme, and boldly carrying it out. Beyond
all question or cavil, the President, with his generals, has the
constitutional power, as a military necessity, to proclaim liberty
to all the inhabitants of the land at once ! And this not only
to cripple, in a vital point, the power of the enemy, but to
speedily put an end to the war. Such a result would, no doubt,
soon follow so bold and earnest a course; and by such a pro
ceeding only is the present war about to be successfully ended,
with the hope, at the same time, of a permanent peace. Every
stage of this contest has tended to render this more and more
manifest. Still the nation hesitates to give the decisive word,
or strike the fatal blow.
Let us not, however, be over-anxious. It may be that, notwith
standing our uneasiness, things are moving in the right direction
and at the right pace. It is not usual that the sentiments of a
great nation, on any moral question, are changed in a day. A

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 47
deep-seated opposition to the emancipation of the slave, has, no
doubt, long pervaded the masses of our Northern people. The
President and our generals may be right in thus moving with
hesitation. The time may not yet have come for decisive action.
The masses of our people — the great army now marshalled for
battle^may not he sufficiently educated or prepared joyfully tp
receive a proclamation for universal emancipation. Such a
course now might, perhaps, create an opposition among our
selves. Let us wait. A few more Bull Runs, Springfield de
feats, and Mulligan surrenders, will fully pave the way and open
the eyes of all the people.

Camp Tennellt, "1
October 22d, 1861. J
Our Sabbath in Camp. — Were a person accustomed to the
soberness of a country village, or that of the still more undis
turbed rest of a quiet country district, suddenly transported into
camp, and that early on a Sabbath morning, or did he arrive
late Saturday evening, and sleep in tent, in all probability he
and devotion would be strangers, at least for one Sabbath day.
Such a strange commixture — noise and quiet, military and re
ligious, devotion and worldliness. Shortly after daylight, you
are suddenly wakened by the rattle of five or six drums, joined
by a big bass one, and all enlivened by two or three shrill fifes.
This is called the "reveille," or alarm, to waken the soldiers.
Presently all is bustle and confusion; five or six soldiers scram
bling out of each little tent, and shaking themselves, as few put
off any of their clothes at night. So soon as the men are all out,
each company assembles, in its own little street, for roll-call.
Each one is to answer to his name, when called on, or to ascer-

48 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
tain whether any are sick or missing. A promiscuous clearing
up then commences — sweeping out tents and spaces between,
brushing clothes, shoes, blankets, knapsacks, and brightening
guns. The Government will strangely persist in ordering a
general inspection of every thing in camp each Sabbath morn
ing. Early, also, the cooks commence chopping and splitting
wood, with fire-kindling, preparatory to breakfast. About ten
o'clock the drums beat for a dress parade. That means the
whole regiment shall come on the parade-ground, in full mili
tary dress, with arms all burnished and ready for use. After a
brief review and inspection, the commanding officer marches the
entire regiment, and forms it in solid mass on the ground most
convenient for public worship. " Halt ! Order arms, redress,''
i. e., stand at ease, is successively ordered by the officer in com
mand. An empty goods box, on which I stand in front, is the
usual pulpit. The sight, when ready for worship, is exceedingly
interesting and beautiful. A thousand men, in regular and close
military order, in full uniform and burnished arms, — congre
gation large enough for any minister to address. The services
are conducted in the usual manner of our churches: prayer,
singing, reading, and preaching, — the whole not usually exceed
ing half an hour ; longer would weary, the men standing all the
while. The utmo~st attention is invariably manifested by all.
From about 10 A. M. to 5 p. m., each one is at liberty to
follow pretty much his own inclination, provided no unneces
sary noise be made. Some read their Bibles, or a religious hook
or paper, provided I have any of these to furnish them. Some
sing Psalms and hymns; some saunter about camp; some talk to
gether of home, of army matters, of religion or politics; some sleep,
while others hide away in the little tents, to play cards or exercise
themselves in some other miscellaneous wickedness. About 5

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 49
p. m., another dress parade is held, and, at its close, another
public service, similar to that of the morning. Much of the
long interval between the hours of preaching, is spent in the
different companies and tents, distributing whatever of religious
reading matter can be obtained,, with such other exercises as
circumstances seem to suggest or warrant. From six to nine,
p. m., Sabbath evening, general quietness prevails. In very
many tents, or in the open spaces in front, singing Psalms or
hymns, as the singers were wont to use at home, gives our place
the appearance of a large camp-meeting. At nine o'clock, the
drums beat the tattoo, warning all to prepare for rest. In half
an hour after, an officer passes through camp, ordering all lights
to be put out, and noise to cease. Such is one of our ordinary
Sabbaths in camp-life with the 13th regiment.
During the week, my usual habit is to deliver a brief sermon,
lecture or talk each evening, accompanied with such other ex
ercises as seem befitting. We have twelve companies in our
regiment, and now considerably over a thousand men. My
manner is to spend an evening alternately with each company.
At evening roll-call, when all are out, I address them on some
suitable theme, read, sing and pray. This course is chosen in
preference to having a general prayer-meeting, once or twice a
week ; for the reason that, at the general meeting, some would
always attend, yet many never; while, by the mode adopted,
all are in turn reached.
Besides these exercises, four companies have now their own
regular evening worship, at roll-call. Family worship, I term
it. One company has also morning worship. So regular are
those companies in these exercises, that on dark, rainy, windy
nights, when no candle could be kept burning so as to read, I
have heard singing and prayer ascend to heaven — the men all

50 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
standing out in the rain, and no fire to dry them, when entering
their little tents to sleep. You, head of a family, yet in whose
household no altar to God may have been erected, come at once
into this dreaded pollution of camp-life, and learn, by example,
your duty to yourself, your family, and to God
All these things are sources of encouragement. But, dear,
gentle reader, do not hence imagine that our regiment has be
come sainted, and that the Lord could walk through the encamp
ment without seeing defilement. A fearful ainount of wicked
ness centres here. Every camp is a place where Satan's seat is.
Drunkenness, profanity, gambling, all the devices of the evil
one. Many, very many of the poor soldiers were, in a seem
ingly hopeless manner, addicted to various vices at home; so
that, as a very relief, friends were glad to have them enlist and
away. What, therefore, could be the natural result, when many
such are brought close together ? Change of place has but httle
influence to change a man's inclination or habits, save for the
worse. The whole tendencies of the camp, be it remembered,
are to demoralize. The condition is unnatural. God placeth
the solitary in families. No mothers, sisters, wives, daughters,
sweethearts here, by their presence and influence, to soothe, to
comfort, to restrain, and to elevate. I would that Government
made comfortable provision for a score of females, possessing
character, standing and influence, to accompany each regiment.
The happy moral results would be at once seen. The tawdry
specimens not unfrequently found connected with the camp, in
various capacities, are not usually what the case requires. For
the arrangement suggested, I confess a strong personal interest
— call it selfishness. Loving and realizing the elevating influ
ences of female society, its loss must needs be felt here.

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 51
, Camp Tennelly, D. C, November 8th, 1861.
Visit to Philadelphia. — When enlisting in this service,
your correspondent's special business was to counteract the wiles
of the devil among the soldiers. All who assay such a work, in
the common walks of life, soon discover it to be no ordinary un
dertaking. Much more difficult, however, does it become in
camp. The weapons first brought along for this contest, be
came, in various skirmishes during the past two months, either
expended or worn out. The friends of this spiritual warfare in
Pittsburg, who promised a continuous supply of implements
and missives, failed altogether to forward, or Adams' Express
neglected to deliver. Not being ignorant concerning the mili
tary powers and masked batteries of that old chieftain — the arch
angel fallen, of whom Milton sings such wonders — a Bull Run
panic came upon your writer of letters. A sudden retreat was
ordered, and a speedy run made clear to Philadelphia. There
aided, encouraged, reasoned, and re-armed by dear, good friends,
an advance was again ordered, after a few days' rest. And this,
too, not without the most encouraging hopes of ultimate victory.
All manner of warlike implements were freely furnished and
sent along — cannon, Minnies, swords, bayonets, pistols, bullets,
bombs, with artillery, cavalry, and infantry. All these in the
shape of trunks and boxes, full of Bibles and Psalm Books-
boxes of all shapes and sizes, bound and unbound, in four diffe
rent languages — English, Welsh, German, and French, with
magazines, pamphlets, tracts and papers. Not only this, but a
living embassy accompanied the return, — Rev. Alfred Nevin,
D. D., and George H. Stuart, with his two daughters and little
son — came along, and visited our Thirteenth regiment. By
their presence, their words of cheer, encouragement and advice,

52 CAMP, MARCH and battle-field.
these dear friends much interested the soldiers, and advanced
the Lord's work in camp. Did every layman, who possesses the
means and professes to love his country and his God, do as our
brother Stuart has done the past week, untold good would he
accomplished. No more Bull Run panics, or Ball's Bluff dis
asters, would likely thereafter happen.
Pleasant Days in Camp. — Never before has it been allowed
me to pass a number of consecutive days more full of deep and
absorbing interest, than those of the past week. In company
with G. H. Stuart, his two daughters and son, between twenty
and thirty different regiments, in their various encampments, on
both sides of the Potomac, have been visited. For this pur
pose, a free pass, to visit all the forts and camps, was obtained
from General McClellan. Whatever regiment, camp, or fort,
we visited, both officers and privates gathered in crowds around
the carriage, eager to receive such books as Cromwell's Army
Bible, a good supply of which was still taken along. A brief
address was usually delivered, at each stopping-place, on the
importance of having the religion of Christ occupy the heart of
each soldier, and thus abound in camp. So cordial was our re
ception every where, that, when taking leave, the. crowd occa
sionally could not, at least did not, refrain from taking off their
caps, and giving three hearty cheers for the strangers.
A somewhat ludicrous incident in this connection, afforded a
fund of amusement to us all. Near sun-down, a brief address
was made to a portion of the 8th Illinois cavalry. A young sol
dier was, at the time, busily engaged in frying, over a camp-fire,
some compound, in a long-handled pan ; yet, at the same time,
giving heed to the speaker. When through, and a number
commenced cheering, so cordially did the young cook enter into

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 53
the applause, as to wave vigorously his frying-pan round and
round over his head, thus scattering its greasy contents upon
quite a number of his messmates.
Religion in Camp. — Sorry were we that time and other
engagements precluded a visit to each of the two or three hun
dred regiments, now constituting the great Army of the Poto
mac. Never before was such a mission-field opened, with pro
mise of so large and speedy a harvest. Luke-warm Christians,
up and act speedily. Ere you find time to offer an earnest
prayer on their behalf, thousands of these brave, yet ungodly,
men may be in eternity. Not a tithe of the moral and spiritual
wants of the army has yet been supplied. Every visit made,
deepened the impression, that our volunteer soldiers, now con
fined to camp life, are thirsting for the sympathies of home, for
an adequate supply of good reading matter, and many, also, for
the earnest and faithful preaching of the gospel. Some regi
ments visited, have no chaplains : their own fault, unquestion
ably. Ungodly men bear command in such regiments, and do
not choose to elect one to preach them the gospel. Too many,
also, who have chaplains, seem to be but little benefited from
their services. A hasty visit did not allow sufficient oppor
tunity to learn all the causes of such failures. Evidently, how
ever, no direct bond of union exists between many chaplains
and the soldiers — no real sympathy, no cordial intercourse —
hence so little profit. A minister of Christ may be an earnest,
godly, laborious man; but, perhaps, wholly unsuited by habit,
temperament, or mode of address for preaching the gospel amid
the bustle and excitements of camp, and had, therefore, much
better be at home-work. To a thoughtful mind, visiting so
many encampments, and seeing such seeming countless thou-

54 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
sands, the work of preaching to all of them the gospel, and sup
plying them with adequate means of grace, seems utterly over
whelming. Feelings arise similar to those in the breast of a
lone missionary in India, surrounded by vast multitudes of hea
then, assembled at some great fair for idol worship. "What
can one do among so many?" The expression I lately heard
uttered by an ignorant old colored woman, who lives in a little
cabin, near to our camp, was altogether natural. She had
never travelled nor received education sufficient to get any just
conception of the world she lives in. Witnessing, day after
day, the marching to and fro of troops, the coming and going
of regiments, without any seeming end, in utter bewilderment,
she at last ejaculated to me, when passing: "Laws a'me, where
did all these men come from ? I never s'posed afore dat so
many people were in de world."
Parting of Generals Scott and McClellan. — When
arriving at the hotel, in Washington, with the friends already
mentioned, late on Friday evening, November the 1st, we heard
it vaguely reported among the guests that General Scott was to
leave next morning, at five o'clock, on a special train, for New
York. Also, that at the depot, General McClellan, with his
staff, were to take, perhaps, a final leave of the scarred, care
worn, feeble and retiring old veteran. " We must witness
that," said our friend, G. H. Stuart, who is not likely to miss
a thing so interesting, when at all within his reach. A car
riage was ordered to be in waiting at four o'clock. All our lit
tle party were ready at the hour; and, though pitch-dark, com
bined with a terrible rain-storm, were soon at the depot. On
entering, we learned that the old hero had already arrived, and
was seated, in a little side-room, almost alone. Having no mu-

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 55
tual acquaintance, we used the American privilege, presenting
our own compliments, myself introducing the two ladies, with
the remark, " That having just come to Washington, they could
not think of allowing General Scott to take, perhaps, a final
leave of the place and his Generals, without being present to
see him off."
" The young ladies have done me great honor, in coming out
such a morning," was the courteous response, as he took each
one cordially hy the hand.
We wished him God's blessing on his present journey, as
well as the remainder of his pilgrimage.
"I need it much," was his unaffected reply, "for I am a
great sinner, and have been one all my life."
The manner in which these words we're uttered, so affected
each one present, that no response was attempted — all were si
lent. Yet but for a moment. A bustle was heard at the door.
The entrance of General McClellan and his staff, with all the
Generals of the army conveniently in reach, together with se
veral members of the cabinet. With heads uncovered and
reverent bearing, each one approached and successively greeted
the worn-out giant, who, mean time, remained seated, being
unable to rise without assistance. When all had paid their re
spects, General McClellan again drew near, as though to receive
the falling mantle from the retiring commander. The old Ge
neral took his hand, and uttered, in the kindest and most
affectionate manner, language to this effect: —
"General, allow not yourself to be embarrassed by ignorant
men. Follow your own judgment. Carry out your own ideas,
and you will conquer. God Mess you."
Equally brief and touching was the response of the young

56
chieftain, on whom the mantle of the great old man was now
falling. "Thank you, General. I will remember your counsel. May
your health improve, and you live to see your country again
united and prosperous. God's blessing accompany you. Fare
well !"
The train was ready. Two assistants aided the old man to
rise. As he and the young general walked side hy side, and
in silence, out to the cars, the contrast was most striking. The
one appeared as a giant, the other as a little hoy.
After the train had left, we had a brief interview with the
boyish general, now commander-in-chief of our vast armies.
Playfully remarking to him the object of our late visit to Phi
ladelphia, how well armed we had returned, with the hope of
driving Satan out of camp — "All success to your enterprise," was
the ready response; "but remember, the undertaking is by no
means an easy one, for that old serpent is not so readily cor
nered."

Camp Tennelly, D. C, Nov. 15th, 1861.
A Great Practical Fact. — I once heard a good old pro
fessor, in an effort to divert the attention of his pupils from an
exciting subject. After exhausting the stock df reasons on
hand, he closed with this sage admonition: "Young gentle
men, you will recollect that slavery is a great practical' fact."
The precise import of the cautious old professor's warning, I
never fully comprehended, nor, -perhaps, did one of his class.
Yet certain is it this thing of slavery has proved itself to be,
indeed, a great practical fact. Another thing has also shown

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 57
itself to be a great practical fact— fighting on a large scale.
A down-right, serious business is it; and this the Generals, on
both sides of this great contest, seem distinctly to realize, and
hence are so slow to inaugurate the game. Beauregard has a
large, well-equipped and thoroughly drilled army. Gen. McClel
lan has a large, pretty well-equipped and fairly drilled army.
They have now been long within cannon-shot, and continue
eagerly looking at each other. Yet no decisive blow is struck.
Like two game cocks, with feathers all on end, and large threat
ening motions and fierce looks, yet each waiting for the other to
make the pounce. Or, as a pair of bullying boys, loudly voci
ferating their eagerness to fight, and full determination, as well
as ability, to pound each other lustily, and yet they don't strike.
In our school-boy slang, we used to say of such : " One's afraid,
and the other daren't."
Your readers may feel occasional impatience that they are
not weekly treated by your correspondent to thrilling accounts
of marches, advances, retreats, cannonadings, battles, slaughter,
victories, defeats, rejoicings, with -all manner of such commo
dities, which so much interest excitable dwellers at home.
They must pardon the neglect, and have patience. Such de
tails are, no doubt, quite engaging, and would certainly be
written, were they on hand. Such amusements, however, are
not at present attainable, from the occurrences of a miserable
little town, called Tennelly, on the line between the District of
Columbia and Maryland, with the daily routine of camp-life in
our Thirteenth regiment. Here, be it remembered, we know
no army orders or movements outside of our camp, until a con
siderable time after they have transpired. And if we did know
them, a positive army order declares they must not be written
of nor published. And as your correspondent always puts his

58 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
own name to the ramblings of his pen, so that he alone may be
held responsible for all aberrations, he might chance to find
himself presently in limbo, did he blab out, by letter, important
army matters, did these ever happen to be intrusted with him.
We are, in fact, shut out from the world, or shut in from it,
here, and our friends at a distance should, in compassion, write
us something to talk about. All the war news we get concern
ing the Grand Army of the Potomac, a part of which we are,
comes to us through the New York and Philadelphia papers,
and this generally lies — news manufactured for the occasion.
Paid reporters are sent on here and elsewhere by these papers.
Something they must send back, or soon lose their vocation.
Lacking realities, they send fiction. This is published as sen
sation items, eagerly read and believed to-day — to-morrow found
to be falsehood. Truly, we are a wonderful people. So exci
table, we had rather have falsehoods than nothing.
Book Distribution. — In my last, you were informed that
a generous supply of spiritual armory, in the shape of books,
tracts, papers, etc., had been furnished and forwarded by
brethren in Philadelphia for the special use of our regiment.
Did the men accept, and use in a soldier-like manner, these
furnished weapons? Or, like David, after trying on Saul's ar
mour, declare, "We cannot go with these?" Had each donor
of a book been in camp on last Sabbath, a strong stimulant
would have been given not to be weary in well-doing.
After preaching in the morning to our regiment, from the
words: "Put on, therefore, the whole armor of God," the sol
diers were informed that, in my next tent, had just been opened
a large box and trunk, filled with a variety of spiritual weapons,
from a Bible down to a simple card, having printed on it, " Thou

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 59
shalt not steal," and that whosoever desired, might come and
he furnished, according to choice. Presently the tent was not
only filled, but surrounded, with eager applicants for all manner
of missiles. Among other books, over three hundred of " Crom
well's Soldier's Bible" had been obtained. This, as the reader
may already know, consists of a judicious selection of Scripture,
first printed more than two hundred years ago, and a copy given
to each of his soldiers by Oliver Cromwell, the most sagacious
of all generals. Two copies are known to have escaped the ra
vages of that old destroyer, Time. The little book has lately
been reprinted, in a neat and beautiful form, and sold at five
cents a single copy.
Taking one of these little swords in my hand, its history,
contents, and value were briefly stated; then, addressing a young
soldier who stood near me, said to him, " I wish to present you
with this little Bible — after writing your name in it, together
with mine, as the giver — provided a promise be given that you
will carry it as a constant companion; and should you fall in
battle, and my lot be there to help bury you, I promise to send
the little keepsake home to your mother-, as a memento of her
son." A chord was touched in the sympathies of the brave
little fellow. With choking emotion, he readily promised.
The idea seemed a pleasing one to others who were present.
The name of the next must also be written in his little book,
together with my own — and the next — and the next. And
thus we went on. Each new name mentioned afforded me an
opportunity to ask of the receiver a few brief questions, and
thus to tender some advice, warning or encouragement. Thus
we proceeded, writing and talking, giving and taking, until all
the three hundred little Bibles were distributed. I was loath
even then to stop, but earnestly wished that eight hundred

60 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
more were on hand — we have now eleven hundred men in our
regiment — so that we might go on till every soldier had one of
these little swords. My hope is that some channel will be
opened whereby the eight hundred additional will be furnished.
In the mean time, some friends assisted in the distribution of
other books and matter, so that by evening each one desiring
had something profitable to read. How much good has heen
accomplished by this Sabbath's exercise, will he added up at the
judgment. Already, however, some good fruits have been pro
duced, as a single incident will attest. Among the little books
distributed, was one called, " The Gambler's Balance Sheet."
The ruinous vice of gambling, is sadly common in almost every
camp. A pack of cards had been kept quite busy in one of our
tents. One of the squad, who afterwards related to me the cir
cumstance, obtained one of the "Balance Sheets," and by per
mission of his messmates, read it aloud on Sabbath evening.
When finished, the oldest member, as also the one most promi
nent in card-playing, remarked, "That every word of that little
book is true," and then inquired for the pack of cards. When
produced, he took them in his hand, and, without speaking,
walked out to the fire, threw them all in, and quietly watched
them until entirely consumed.
Soldier's Burial. — On Tuesday, the 12th, as the sun was
setting, we buried one of our dear, young soldiers. We laid him
in a lonely grave, within a desolate old church-yard, where al
ready lie, side by side, eighteen of our volunteer soldiers, out
of the various regiments which, for the past months, have
camped in this vicinity. Not half the graves have even a board
at the head, with the name of the dead written thereon, so
that, even for a few months, the eye of affection or curiosity

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 61
might learn who sleeps beneath. Forgotten already ! Such is
the glory of war. Buried far from home and friends, with no
tears to moisten the grave. No tears are shed at a soldier's fu
neral; pomp and noise assume the prerogative of grief and tears.
Our young soldier died of camp-fever, which fell destroyer takes
away more from our army, than the violence of the battle-field.
Already, perhaps, have more of our volunteers died from camp
fevers, on the line of the Potomac, than fell at BulPs Run and
Ball's Bluff together. Our camp, for weeks past, was in a
stench-pool of miasma. Enough of our men are sick: the
marvel is that there are not more. A change of location, lately
effected, into an open field and higher ground, gives promise of
purer air and greater freedom from malaria. This is well, see
ing a prospect of remaining here all winter in cloth houses and
without fire.

Tennelly, November 22d, 1861.
Pay Day in Camp. — This period of curious interest and
varied excitement, has just transpired. Strange as it may
seem, the soldier looks forward to pay-day with an absorbing
interest, and appears to value his wages beyond that of ordi
nary laborers. If delayed beyond the expected time, varied
and oft-repeated expressions of regret are heard.
Uncle Sam, in addition to feeding and clothing his volunteer
soldiers, agrees to pay them thirteen dollars for each month's
service. Payments are promised at the end of each successive
two months. Previously to the time of payment, the command
ing officers are to have made out a full and complete duplicate
6

62 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
list of each member and his standing in his regiment. All
these things were in readiness by our officers on the last of Oc
tober; but not till the 18th of November did the important
official of our Uncle Samuel, called Paymaster, make his appear
ance. Great grumbling, in its various phases, was one result
of the delay. This, however, all vanished on the day named,
by the appearance of a spring-wagon, containing a complacent-
looking major, sundry subordinates, together with a number of
comfortable-looking, strong boxes. As the cortege drove to the
colonel's tent, it was welcomed through camp by a great variety
of joyous yells, shrieks and cheers.
All things were speedily in readiness for disbursing the cash.
A table was set at the door of the tent, behind which sat Uncle
Sam's banker, with his clerk. The duplicate rolls were in
hand. On the table were spread out, in tempting abundance,
piles of gold, silver, coppers, and treasury notes. Company A
was ordered to parade in front of the burdened table, and not
a member failed in prompt obedience to the call. Paymaster
then calls the name of the first man on the roll, which has been
given him.
" Here !'' answers soldier.
" Come forward," says paymaster, and forward comes soldier,
on quick time.
" Is this the man whose name is here upon the roll ?" asks
paymaster of officers.
" Yes."
"Take your money," says paymaster, as the clerk quickly
counts the amount, pushes it to him across the table, and checks
his name on the roll. Soldier grabs up his money, makes a
hasty bow, and passes quickly back to his place. The next
name is called, and the same routine gone through. So prompt,

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 63
orderly and rapid is the business despatched, that in an after
noon the whole regiment, of eleven hundred men, is paid off,
and that without the mistake of a cent.
Pay-time is one of apprehension to the chaplain. As with
the sop into Judas, so is the devil likely to get into camp with
the cash. Money is a strange machine, and drives humanity into
many a curious freak. Long time ago, Solomon affirmed that
" Money answereth all things." Without claiming the wisdom
of that sage possessor of wives, his version of money is cordially
responded to. In the first boyish effort at copy-writing, my
dear old pedagogue wrote, for imitation, at the head of the
whole page — "Money makes the mare go."
The sage copy was read and re-read, and our young brain
became much puzzled thereat.
"Money makes the mare go."
What could it mean ? We had an old gray mare at home,
astride of which, and switch in hand, it was occasionally my
rather happy business to make go, and that smartly. But how
money could make her go, was wholly beyond my comprehension.
The problem has, however, been solved. Mingling with the
affairs of men has, long since, settled to my satisfaction, that
money not only makes the mare go, but it also makes all other
earthly things go.
Curious was it, and interesting to witness, the change of
countenance, the varied exhibitions of thought and feeling mani
fested by each soldier, as he walked away, carefully examining,
counting, and pocketing his twenty-six dollars. Remembering
his present warm and comfortable clothing, his abundance of
healthy grub, and now the cash in the pocket, each one, by a

64 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
significant wag of the head, was understood to say, "Uncle
Sam, you are a pretty clever old fellow; nor shall all the sesesh
in Christendom be allowed permanently to disturb your peace,
or break up your goodly inheritance !"
This important matter settled to satisfaction over the newly-
acquired cash, the countenance betokened new queries rising
within. "What shall I do with the cash?"
In a moment a needy wife and children are present, and
pleading with this one for a large share. With that one, the
vision of a widowed mother pleads for relief. A sister, ekeing
out a scanty subsistence with her needle, silently pleads with
this young soldier-brother for help. An old, relentless creditor
stalks along and demands his share of yon debtor. Various
depraved appetites well up in another, and demand speedy gra
tification, the' means being now at hand. Others still, having
no immediate friends in need to relieve, no craving appetites
within to gratify, and possessing a prudent forethought, with a
wink of the eye, a nod of the head, and a knowing slap of the
hand on the pocket, intimating, by said demonstrations, a set
tled purpose to keep the cash, and'with it commence business
when the war is over.
Such, perhaps, is a fair indication ofthe modes in which the
thirty-five thousand dollars, paid our regiment, for two months'
service, were soon to be appropriated. Various cases of noble
self-denial have colne to my knowledge of soldiers who sent
home to their families the entire twenty-six dollars, reserving
not a cent for self-gratification, or even comforts. I was the
gratified agent in sending to Pittsburg eighteen hundred and
fifty dollars, from one company. As the packages of treasury
notes were deposited in charge of Adams' Express, how

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 65
pleasingly my thoughts accompanied them to their various des
tinations. Almost could I hear and see the joyous, tearful
delight, in many a needy home, on their reception. A friend,
from Pittsburg, who was in camp at the time, took home with
him three thousand dollars. Perhaps twenty thousand in all
were sent home.
And what of the remainder — the other fifteen thousand — in
what directions went they? A full account would be very
varied, perhaps amusing, but certainly neither edifying nor
consoling. The sutler gets a large pile. "And what of him? Who is
he ? and how comes he to get the largest share ? The sutler ?
He is a personage attached, by authority of Government, to
each regiment, whose business, in plain English, is to keep a
grocery store in camp. He is furnished by Government with
neither means nor pay, yet is his business considered the most
money-making of any in the army. Possessing a monopoly of
his trade in camp, he sells at his own price the various little
nic-nacs and luxuries the soldier may desire beyond his rations.
Whatever the soldiers may wish before pay-day, the sutler freely
lets them have, and on this wise : he sells the buyer a dollar's
worth, or any desired amount of little orders on himself, and,
in exchange for these, barters the soldier his commodities.
When pay-day comes, the sutler presents himself at the pay
master's table, with his accounts, and, as each one is paid off,
demands and receives his bill. Various young men did I see
pay the sutler eight dollars out of his twenty-six, and this for
trifles which had much better been done without. It would
surely be an improvement in the service, were the sutler insti
tution entirely abolished.
It is also well known to every observant person that too many

66 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
persons are found in every community, and more especially in
cities, who are never content when in possession of' money,
until they have gone on a spree and spent it. Many of these
have entered the army. Men wholly run down at home, past
shame, nuisances, to whose friends it was a great relief when
they enlisted. What is to be expected of such men here ? Will
a few weeks' soldiering, with the brief labors of a chaplain, di
vided among eleven hundred men, be likely to convert and ele
vate those whom all the pastors in Pittsburg have so long wholly
failed to influence ? All the sentinels and terrors of penal mili
tary codes fail to keep a number of this ilk in camp, when in pos
session of their money. Out they must go and have a spree,
and out they got and had it. Others got the devil into camp
in the shape of bad whisky, and thus had their jollification at
home. Next day our guard-house had to be re-inaugurated,
for which of late there had been so little necessity.
"But," says the reader, "have I not read in print that it is
against the law, and a penalty rests upon those who bring
whisky in the camp ?"
" Certainly, dear reader, certainly."
" Then, how does it get it in 1"
I pressed this same query on a half-drunk soldier. Chancing
to meet him, in a ramble through camp, he appeared desirous
of entering into a confidential chat. His proposed colloquy was
cut short by my remarking :
"Dear friend, you are drunk!"
"No, chaplain, not drunk, but have been drinking a little."
" Well, well, let us discuss that matter another time ; but
come, now, tell me how you contrived to get the creature."
"Oh, chaplain, I couldn't do that; but we do get it in such
curious ways, you would never dream of."

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 67
"No doubt of that; but come, now, be a good fellow, and
just tell me one of them."
"Well now, to oblige you, I will: we smuggle it into camp
in our guns."
" In your'guns ! No, you don't; they wouldn't hold enough
to make you drunk."
" Yes, but they will ; each gun holds nearly a pint."
And on examination, I learned the fellow was actually tell
ing the truth.
Other modes of introducing, in a stealthy manner, the fiery
contraband, which have come to my knowledge, had as well
not be written. "Evil communications do and may corrupt
good manners." A father confessor once demanded of his
penitent, a burly hostler : " Did you ever grease the horses'
teeth, to prevent them eating their oats?" "Niver a time,
your riverence." At the return of the season, the same peni
tent was again making a clean breast before the holy father,
and confessed to having greased the horses' teeth quite a num
ber of times. " Did you not tell me, when here before, you
had never done the like ?" " True, holy father, for I niver
knew it would stop their ating, till you tould me."

Tennelly, November 29th, 1861.
Diocesan Bishop. — Your correspondent has lately been
elevated, in an unexpected manner, to the position of Diocesan
Bishop. This, however, unhappily, without any curate or in
ferior clergy. On this wise the change and elevation came to
pass. Our. Thirteenth regiment has overgrown itself. Instead

68 CAMP, MARCH and battle-field.
of ten companies, of a hundred men each, which constitute a
full regiment, we have twelve companies, and nearly all full —
with more coming or wishing to come. Popularity has, how
ever, its evils, and overgrowth its disadvantages. Ours being
so much the largest regiment in the brigade, and, perhaps, con
sidered the most fitted for service, on it, in consequence, has
fallen all the demands for special service and outside duties.
A huge earthen structure, called Fort Pennsylvania, large and
strong as the celebrated Malakoff, near to our encampment — '¦
or we near to it — said national defence required to be properly
defended, having the big guns ready for the match, the mo
ment a ragged secessionist may show himself in the distance.
Captain Fulwood, with his Pittsburg boys, has been detached
for said service, and shut up in the earthen enclosure.
About fourteen miles above us, on the river, is a place, called
" Great Falls," wherd it was apprehended the rebels might jump
across, some dark night, and thus make an unwary march on
Washington. In order to prevent such a calamity, Captains
Foster and Enwright have been detached, with their two
hundred men, for the past month. Some days since, three
hundred wild Irishmen, who have been building an additional
fort, in our neighborhood, for good Uncle Samuel, actually got
it into their heads to quarrel with the old gentleman — all this,
too, about the amount of wages and kind of food he furnished
them. Said difference of opinion presently took the shape of a
row, and, as ¦ a result, a cessation from all work, — by which
minor rebellion, serious apprehension was created in the minds
of quiet dwellers near by, and his aid was called for. Captain
Duff, with his hundred Birmingham lads, was at once detached
to the locality. The sight of their bayonets acted as a charm,
in favor of peace and order. The company has, nevertheless,

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 69
been ordered to quarter itself in said locality for a time, lest,
when the pressure be removed, the steam might again chance
to rise.
Thus has a bishopric unexpectedly, and without the asking,
or even desiring, been thrust upon me. An undivided parish
would be much preferable, without the present honor. Various
and irregular itinerancies are now made. Armed with a suitable
number of books, tracts, and papers, and with a few delicacies
for the sick, one of these was lately undertaken to Great Falls.
the locomotion being made in the sutler's wagon. From both
officers and privates, a cordial greeting and hearty welcome were
tendered me. One of the services, while there, was preaching
a sermon to the companies, assembled around a lonely grave in
the woods, where they had carried a dead companion, and laid
him down to take his long, long sleep. 0, that the living
would lay it to heart. Of all men, the soldier should be the
most religious; yet, of all others, he is prone to be the most
careless. Great Falls — Potomac River. — Few American rivers
seem, in reality, less known than the Potomac. Its tide-water
portion, from Washington, by Mount Vernon to the Chesapeake,
has some classic fame ; but of the upper portion, the real river,
little or nothing is said or written by geographers or tourists.
Like most other of our rivers, it flows down from a high moun
tain region, and hence, in its course, is rugged, rapid, and pic
turesque. As it breaks through a mountain gorge at Harper's
Ferry, all who pass that way, unite in calling it sublime.
When approaching within twenty miles of tide-water, at
Georgetown, the river has nearly two hundred feet to descend.
This is made not by a perpendicular plunge, like Niagara, but

.70 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
by rapids and broken cascades. These form a succession of
scenes, at once wild and picturesque, yet verging on the deso
late in appearance. Three miles above Georgetown, are "Lit
tle Falls," — the river being, at this place, very compressed, tur
bulent, and rapid. Here it is crossed by the now so famous
chain bridge. Why the name chain, deponent saith not, it
being quite an ordinary wooden structure. Across it there
goes a constant stream, of wagons, horses, soldiers, and civilians,
it being the only communication between Washington and an
encampment of fifty thousand men.
Great Falls are fourteen miles above. At these the river,
within the distance of half a mile, descends, perhaps, a hundred
feet. Nature, in a holiday age gone by, has torn up from their
deep foundations, nearly all the primitive rocks known to geolo
gists — quartz, gneiss, red sandstone, granite — and piled them
together, in huge, promiscuous and unsightly heaps. Over,
down, and between these great, upheaved, broken rocks, the
waters of the Potomac have, for many centuries, been cutting
themselves various crooked and broken channels. At low
water, a man, without much inconvenience, might contrive to
cross from Virginia to Maryland, by jumping from rock to
rock. Hence our two companies are here to watch the seces
sionists. But, at the time of our visit, the river, greatly swol
len by recent rains, was foaming and dashing and roaring over
and among the rocks, in a manner truly grand and eloquent,
proudly forbidding all passage.
During my stay, an afternoon was devoted to a visit and
examination of all that was to be seen of these great cascades,
rocks, woods, and water-courses. Lieutenants Day and Foster,
who have now been here for more than a month, and learned,
by frequent personal explorations, all the passes and accessible

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 71 '
points, kindly proffered their guidance. Would that all my
-readers had accompanied me in that rugged, delightful, yet
occasionally venturesome ramble. Glorious are all thy works,
0 Lord ! How insignificant in comparison with Thee and Thy
works, is man, with all his puny efforts and structures ! The
whole army of the Potomac, rebels and all, would be swept
away at a dash, were it to encounter the rage of these foaming
waters. At one point the river becomes so compressed, that were it
not for the roaring, rushing waters, friends might readily con
verse with each other across the main channel. While gazing
here at the heaving tide of waters, three secessionists — at least,
Virginia ladies — made their appearance on tbe opposite rocks,
and without any apparent fear of deadly missiles, waved their
handkerchiefs at us. Our gallantry not being at fault, we, too,
in like manner, saluted in turn. Not satisfied with this, my
young companions resolved on an effort at a more satisfactory
mode of communicating, than waving of handkerchiefs. Hasty
billetdoux were written, with pencil, the paper missiles tied,
with cord, around small stones, and then thrown with vigorous
arms for the opposite shore. But, alas for human effort and
Cupid's skill ! they both have their limits. The precious mes
sengers of thought, ere reaching the shores of Dixie's land, sunk,
with their more weighty companions, into the boiling flood.
The young lieutenants looked disappointed; and so, also, I
thought, did the ladies.
Washington Water- Works. — From the head of these
rapids, is the place from whence Washington is to be perma
nently supplied and bountifully, also, with pure, cold water.

72 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
Water-works, of gigantic magnitude, have accordingly been
planned, and already in part executed. The undertaking pro
poses to draw a large portion of water from the river here, con
vey it down to Washington, a distance of about twenty miles,
in a suitable conductor, and, when there, the fall will be so
great-, that a fountain can be thrown entirely over the Capitol.
Some dozen years since, a celebrated engineer made an estimate
of the cost, laying it at a little over two millions. Congress at
once voted the amount. The enterprise was soon commenced,
the money all presently expended, yet the work is hardly begun.
Year after year, Congress has been voting large additional sums,
till perhaps six or eight million dollars have been expended, and
as much more may yet be required fully to complete the under
taking. So far as completed, the work is truly a grand one. From
the head of Great Falls, a six-foot man, with his hat on, can
now walk twelve miles in an arched waterduct, leading along
the rocky bluffs of the Potomac, occasionally passing under
the projecting spurs of the hills, and over a number of deep
gulches. When the present war imbroglio sprang upon the
nation, this pet enterprise came to a sudden stand-still, our
relative Sam, having other use for his cash. Our familiar old
companies at Great Falls, now occupy as barracks, the houses
1 ately used by the workmen connected with the water-works.
Our Capitol Needs Cleansing. — Congress has frequently
threatened to shut the treasury gate on the whole concern.
This, however, would be a very foolish policy. Many much
more foolish schemes get big nibbles at the public crib.. If
ever a city needed much water, in order to keep it clean and
pure, that city is Washington, during the sittings of Congress.

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 73
That weighty body transports hither much filth. Were all the
waters of the Potomac to prove sufficient for washing away
congressional filth, lobby pollutions, with other miscellaneous
nastiness which annually accumulates in our national capital,
let us, by all means, hasten these great water-works to comple
tion. For the nation's sake, lavish the money, until the clear
flowing streams of the noble old river run down into the city.
Classic scholars will remember that one of the twelve world
wide labors of that old hero, possessing fabulous strength, was
to cleanse certain places, abounding with long-accumulating filth.
Hercules being a» philpsopher — a man of gumption, as well as
strength, — succeeded in turning the streams of a classic river
from their course into the polluted locality, and had, in conse
quence, the great satisfaction of soon looking upon a thoroughly
purified place.

Tennelly, December 6th, 1861.
Sick in Camp. — Not sick myself — your correspondent was
never in better health. By personal experience, he has no
acquaintance with sickness in camp. On the contrary, the
ruggedness of the past three months' exercise, has added ten
pounds of good, hardy flesh, together with an appetite for any
kind of soldier's fare. Whether he shall get sick, is a question
that gives no trouble: "Sufficient unto the day is the evil
thereof." There are, however, sick in every camp, and not
unfrequently a great many. These are affected with all the
ordinary, and even extraordinary diseases which are wont .to
afflict fallen humanity. To these, their condition, wants, com
forts, attendance, etc., the present communication is devoted.

74 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
A serious business, usually, is it to be sick at home, where
all its unnumbered sympathies unite to comfort, to soothe, and
to relieve that member, who may he confined by severe illness.
True is it there, that when one member suffers, all suffer. A
very different matter, however, is it to become sick in camp,
and forced to enter some form of a thing, called "hospital."
Against entering an hospital, there usually exists in the mind
of the soldier a strong repugnance, even a manifest horror.
Nor is this, by any means, an unnatural feeling. Too often
they are cold, heartless places, to which, even when sick, the
soldier is carried with great reluctance. As a consequence, the
good soldier is wont to resist and stave off approaching disease
as long as possible, by a performance of ordinary duties. When
forced finally to yield, the bravest and strongest usually give
up altogether, — lie down in the cheerless, homeless tent, draw
their blanket over their head, and almost refuse to move, until
forced away by command of an officer. Trying to cheer up one
such lately, though neither home nor friends had been men
tioned, I said abruptly: "My dear young friend, you are home
sick." "0," he exclaimed, as the big tears filled his eyes,
" home is every thought."
The inexperienced may be ready to suppose that, from their
mutually exposed condition, soldiers would be very sympathetic,
and disposed readily to assist and comfort each other. To the
very opposite of this, there seems, however, a strong tendency.
The soldier seldom acts towards the sick, the dying and the
dead, as he was wont to do at home.
Surgeons. — It must not be forgotten, that whatever is done
for the sick in camp, is regulated by law, and performed for
pay. The invalid soldier has not the privilege of choosing his

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 75
own physician, or of employing his own attendant. However
much those to whose care he is committed, and in whose keep
ing is his life, may be disliked, there is for him no remedy.
The surgeon being appointed and paid by Government, feels no
necessity either to please or accommodate the patient. And,
without intending any injustice to both a useful and honorable
profession, it is to be feared that too many adventurers have suc
ceeded in securing to themselves the position of surgeon in the
army — men of doubtful character, who perhaps failed to secure a
practice at home. Sad is it to reflect, that to the killing coldness,
the indifference, or even worse, of such professed physicians,
are the lives of many brave men subjected, while on campaigns
and in hospital treatment.
Hospital Stewards.— Hospital stewards, with their assis
tants, are also appointed and paid by the powers that be; and
may, perchance, be such as to eat the delicacies and drink the
stimulants provided for those under their nursing, and thus
placed within their power to wrong. These remarks are more
especially applicable to the more temporary regimental hospitals,
scattered throughout the various encampments. In large cen
tral hospitals, by reason of various beneficent influences, by bet
ter care and watching, the sick soldier is wont to find himself
more at home and better attended,
Camp Hospitals. — Our hospital department, in connection
with this immense army, seems yet but partly organized — floun
dering, trying experiments, and this, too, at the expense of our
sick soldiers, — of wounded, we have, as yet, but few. Thus
far the sick of our regiment have generally been kept and
nursed within itself. Being of late in a region of malaria,

76 CAMP, MARCn AND BATTLE-FIELD.

about fifty of our men became affected with various kinds of
intermittents, which, in a short time usually merge into ty
phoid. A few weeks since, a vacant house' near, containing
five rooms, was seized for a hospital, yet how sorry the con
veniences for th.e sick, consisting only of what the soldier had
in camp— his blanket, overcoat, canteen, knapsack, anoVtin-cup,
together with coarse fare, of which, in his now fevered con
dition, he is unable to partake. What could the most affec
tionate and skilful nursing accomplish under such conditions?
Now seemed the time to test the ability and willingness of
ladies' aid societies and advertised benevolent committees.
Ladies' Aid Societies. — During a late visit to Philadel
phia, it was my happiness to obtain an introduction to Mrs.
Jones, of No. 625 Walnut street, President of a ladies' aid so
ciety for sick soldiers, in that goodly city. By her an invita
tion was given to call, if need be, at their depots in Washington.
These are kept by the Misses Mellville and Gray in one -loca
lity, and Mrs. Z. Denham in another, who all devote much of
their time, cheerfully and gratuitously, in the good office of
almoners and distributors. Since my return, an acquaintance
has also been formed with Mrs. Harris, of No. 1106 Pine street,
Philadelphia, Secretary of said society, who devotes almost her
entire time in journeying to and from Washington, visiting
various camps, and seeing that the ladies' benefactions are well
and judiciously distributed.
Acting on the acquaintance made, the information obtained
and the invitation given, a journey was presently undertaken
to "Washington, about seven miles from our present encamp
ment. A reception, both cordial and generous, was accorded
to me from the ladies already named. With all my professed

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 77
knowledge of the sick and their wants, I was not prepared to
suggest or ask for even half the number of things which were
cheerfully and gratuitously given for the use of our sick. No
judgment, tact, — gumption is, perhaps, the best designation, —
but that of the ladies, could have suggested, and brought to
gether s£ many articles of utility, comfort and necessity for a
destitute hospital. A great army wagon was more than half
loaded. Two dozen of strong, new bed-ticks, two dozen of
blankets and comfortables — with sheets, feather pillows and
pillow slips, hospital shirts and drawers, flannel -shirts and
drawers, socks, warm slippers for the convalescent, flannel ban
dages for the bowels, towels, with soap, etc. ; and, for the inner
man, dried rusk and farina crackers, with farina flour, corn
starch, cocoa, tea, sugar, butter, eggs, preserves, pickles, tomato
butter, apple sauce, preserved tomatoes, peach preserves, jellies,
dried fruit and berries, together with other articles, as the auc
tioneer has it, too tedious to mention.
When these things were brought out, and began to be car
ried to our sick, in baskets and armfuls, they seemed like a
real Godsend. The Israelites were not more rejoiced over their
manna, than were these over the newly arrived comforts.
They, acted like a charm, doing, seemingly, more good than
whole boxes of pills and rolls of plaster. Medicine were they,
both to body and soul. Scarcely a patient who did not pre
sently give evidence of improvement. It was both interesting
and amusing to witness the various exhibitions of feeling among
the invalids. Before any thing had been said respecting the
source from whence came the welcome missiles, a sick man
gathered himself up in the corner of a room, and ejaculated :
" The women had something to do in this business."
On the sources of their generous supply being stated, quite a
7«

iu.iL,..

78 CAMP, MARCH AND- BATTLE-FIELD.
number united, with various tones of energy, in the invoca
tion : —
" God bless the women !"
One man, rather taciturn, and though quite sick, got up on
his elbow, with the seeming determination of an extra flourish
of eloquent commendation, and finally exploded with^he em
phatic declaration : —
"These women are an institution."
A young fellow, lying on the broad of his back, near by, and
seemingly unable to turn himself, chimed in : —
"I love the whole of them, but one in particular, and I wish
that she were here."
Half a month has elapsed since these bounties and extra com
forts began to be used. More than half of the forty then sick
in hospital, have already returned to duty in camp. A large
portion of the remainder will soon be able to follow. One of
these only has died. But two or three additional cases, during
this period, have been taken to the hospital. A remarkable
degree of good health is thus indicated, for a regiment of eleven
hundred men, in this inclement season, living in cloth tents,
and generally without fire. Quite as many, perhaps more, are
sick among an equal number of men at home.
Being accustomed to draw inferences, when sermonizing, the
special one at present is — " These women are, indeed, an insti
tution." A sorry world would we have without them. These
battles would not be worth the fighting, were it not for the
hope of a cordial reception from them, when the warfare is
over. Their sympathies, encouragement, labors, and bene
ficence, exerted in the proper manner, will assist as much in
advancing the cause of the Union, as that of the soldier in
camp, or on the battle-field.

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 79
Camp Tennelly, December 13th, 1861.
Grand Military Review. — A review, in military lan
guage, means an inspection of troops. True, dear reader, we
are not at present able to write of battles, major and minor,
fought, won, or lost. Occupying, as we do, this post of honor
and central position in the grand army of the Potomac, just so
many killed, and this number wounded, and that fraction miss
ing, are not mine to record. Such pleasing episodes are not on
hand just now. All this you may find quite hard to endure, as
nothing else may be sufficient to satisfy the present inordinate
craving after something new and marvellous. Do try, however,
to exercise the grace of patience, and be content with things
less tame. Be content, this once, with the next thing to a bat
tle — a grand review — a thing, withal, both beautiful and grand,
both interesting and exciting, though my pen may fail to con
vey all these adjectives fitly to your conception.
A certain brave character, hy profession, was wont to boast
of his great fondness for war, always excepting that viUanous
saltpetre. We are much better off than he, being able to boast
our fondness for the present mode of warfaring, having with it
much saltpeter, sulphur, noise, and smoke, and all this without
any of those naughty bullets. Daily drills, parades, marches,
skirmishes, battles, and no one hurt. This is a sensible sort of
warfare. Reviews, also, squad, company, regiment, brigade,
division. Under the present military organization, it will be
remembered, a regiment consists of ten companies, of a hun
dred men each ; a brigade has four of these regiments, and a
division at least three of these brigades. Our division has
three brigades. That of which the 13th forms a part, is com
manded by General Peck, of New York; the other brigades,

80
respectively, by Generals Couch and Graham — the whole by
General E. D. Keyes.
On Friday, December the 6th, a grand review of the division
was ordered by General McClellan. The parade-ground was on
Meridian Hill, a little north, and in sight of Washington. The
location is peculiarly suited for such a purpose, being an open,
undulating space, about one-fourth of a mile wide, and three-
fourths long. The day was beautiful beyond what is ever seen,
at this season, in States farther North. Cloudless, yet hazy, —
warm enough not to be cool; cool sufficient not to be hot: just
such a day as the Epicurean could wish at any season.
By 1 o'clock, the three brigades were all upon the field, and
each arrayed in line of battle, — one about twenty rods in the-
rear of the other, while each line extended half a mile. Several
companies of artillery were also on parade and review, while a
regiment of a thousand cavalry showed themselves in the dis
tance. All was soon in trim order, and with quiet, expectant
watchfulness, awaited the coming of the Commander-in-Chief.
Presently General McClellan, with a staff, numbering some
fifteen, gallopped upon the field. What a hum, rattle and roar
was there and then. A whole division of muskets were in a
moment gracefully presented, while, as if by magic, ten thou
sand bayonets gleamed in the calm, hazy sunlight. The swords
of five hundred officers glanced as though whole companies of
secessionists were to be cut to pieces. The banners, all along
the division lines, gracefully waved; a hundred drums rattled
their joyous salutes; bugles and trumpets sounded out their
welcomes; a dozen cannon bellowed forth their noisy honors —
while on rode the gay young General, surrounded by his showy
staff. Around they pranced, in front and rear of each line,
thus making about three miles of a general circuit. Proud,

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 81
joyous, and with gallant bearing, rode they all. No marks of
fear were manifest, as no villanous secession bullets happened
at the time to be flying over the field, thus giving occasion for
no dodging, nor hiding the one behind the other. Greatly,
also, was the scene enlivened, and the bravery of both officers
and men moved to manifest itself, by whole bevies of ladies,
lining the margins of the field, in carriages open and carriages
closed, and in all manner of conveyances. Whole regiments,
also, of unorganized civilians, senators, congressmen, men of alj
grades and professions, with those of no grade, profession, or
business, graced the scene with their curious, idle presence.
What officer would not look and act bravely under such con
ditions ? No marvel if such gay, bloodless battles be lengthened
out and oft-repeated, in the vicinity of the Capital. Here com
manders and commanded gain pleasant, bought renown, in the
presence of mothers, wives, and sweethearts.
The gallopping review gone through, General McClellan and
his staff brought their foaming, prancing steeds to a stand-Still,
on one side of the parade-ground, while the whole division
marched by in companies before them in review. Each mounted
official, as he passed the scrutinizing gaze, made his best endea
vor to maintain a graceful seat; each company officer how
straight he bore himself; while each private vied with his fellow,
in keeping a correct step, and exhibiting before his commander
a soldierly bearing.
Review over, General Keyes commanded, and for some time
drilled the division in evolutions of the line. The whole body
was closed en masse — expanded — then formed into twelve hol
low-squares, on double-quick time — which' means a smart run.
This last evolution, all who saw, united in declaring the grandest
they had ever witnessed. The vast panorama seemed for a mo-

82 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
menf a mass of rapid, waving,. brilliant motion — yet no confu
sion. The solid squares were formed from straight lines as if
by magic. Bayonets now glistened in all directions from the
centre, threatening instant destruction to any audacious horseman
who might venture a too near approach. Order, shoulder, pre
sent arms, were alternately sounded along the squares, and all.
performed as if by one man. A great army is a machine, a
great locomotive, with tender, track and all. Again, the order
is given to reduce squares. Artists talk about dissolving views,
but nothing ever like this. The great square's were gone, — all
again in straight line. Not an amateur, military man, nor a
lady admirer present, but felt like shouting : " Intricate, mas
terly, grand, perfect;" at least, so felt your correspondent. A
reporter for one of the daily papers, says of it: "We under
stand that the General commanding the division was highly
complimented by Gen. McClellan, who expressed the greatest
gratification at the proficiency acquired by his command.
The last review usually receives the appellation "grandest,",
"best." Of this, however, officers of experience, skill, and
judgment have been heard to affirm that, "while larger bodies
of troops had, of late, been gathered together, yet for perfection
of drill, its like has never before been seen on this continent.
Concerning it, all connected seemed peculiarly well pleased, and
left the ground with much self-complacency. Our Brigadier-
General Peck, who, in addition to possessing the respect and
confidence of all his regiments, as a soldier, happily combines
the Christian also, and earnestly desires the spiritual improve
ment, as well as temporal good, of his men, — as seated upon his
gray horse, on the day of the review, observing and directing
the movements of his brigade, manifested peculiar satisfaction
at the manner in which the whole affair was conducted.

WASHINGTON AND VICINITY. 83
Perhaps, some impatient, inquisitive reader may be ready to
spoil this magnifying hoastfulness, by pressing the query — " If
so thoroughly drilled, equipped and ready for doing such great
things, why not on atronce to Manassas Junction, and speedily
retrieve the disaster and disgrace of Bull Run ? How long do
you expect yet to linger and parade about Washington ?" Don't
now, dear reader, damp all this complacency and good feeling.
A very different business, recollect, would it be from taking
Manassas, to make this fine show hereabouts, on parade days.
That to which you urge us would be a downright serious affair,
a great practical fact. And, moreover, no more crowds of civi
lians would be likely to accompany, nor bevies of ladies be
there to crown the entertainment with their approving smiles-
Do allow us to put off the evil day as long as possible. Manas
sas may be the last review field for many a brave soldier, your
own friend, or, perhaps, relative among them. Don't be impa
tient. But more of this again.
Death: of Lieutenant Phillips. — On yesterday, we sent
home to Pittsburg, on his last, long furlough from all earthly
warfare, Lieutenant W. J. Phillips, of company L. A sor
rowing father, a weeping mother, and desolate brother bore
home the lifeless treasure. Sad were we all to part with this
dear young friend. Stronger than our loves and affections was
that terrible ravager, typhoid fever, or camp fever, more appro
priately called, and more to be dreaded by tbe soldier than seces
sionist bullets or bayonets, — seizing upon his strong, manly
frame, in a manner that sets at speedy defiance all our specifics,
nursing, and arts of healing. In yielding to the grim adver
sary, he nevertheless conquered. In addition to much promise
as an officer in our regiment, he combined the rarer and better

84 CAMP, MARCH and battle-field.
quality — that of being a good soldier of Jesus Christ. Visiting
one of our young soldiers, to-day, who is sick in hospital, and
mentioning the death of Lieutenant Phillips: "Ah!" said the
invalid, naming a certain engine-house in Pittsburg, "there he
has talked to me for hours about my soul. If he has not gone
to heaven, what, then, will become of me?"
Visit of Friends. — During the past week, we have heen
cheered and greatly refreshed by a visit, of several days' con
tinuance, from George H. Stuart, James Smith, and Wm. Ray,
of Philadelphia, and of Mr. Bliss, of the Western Theological
Seminary. These brethren came, not like most of our visitors,
merely to gaze at reviews, get a vision of camp curiosities, with
a look at tent life, and then away; but from the beginning to
the end of their four days' visit, commencing at early morning
till late at night, were they zealously endeavoring to benefit the
soldiers, stowing their carriage with suitable books, papers, tracts
and pamphlets, passed from camp to camp, freely and liberally
distributing. Wherever they visited, eager crowds gathered to
receive their liberality. Nor were any of these gatherings
allowed to disperse, without an earnest appeal concerning the
great interests of the soul. Would that God should send us
many such visitors, or these dear brethren soon on an additional
expedition.

tennelly, d. c 85

CHAPTER III.
JANUARY TO MARCH, 1862.
Tennelly, January 9th, 1862.
Return to Camp. — Again in camp, and in the midst of
parades, reveilles, tattoos, tents, and sentinels. Once more at
home, or rather the allotted stopping-place. That dearest of
all appellations of our own glorious English tongue, we desig
nate home, has no real existence in camp. True, we have men
here: men enough who eat, drink, talk, sleep, and wake, together1
with various other^human actions. These men are also confined
to one locality, even at the point of the bayonet. They have,
moreover, curious-shaped little concerns, which may be called
houses, in which to live. Yet all these put together do not
constitute home. For this a family is required, and no such
thing is found in a camp or army. No company of men, how
ever good,' learned, brave, or polite, and living together ever so
sumptuously, can ever deserve the name of family. Bachelors
are and deserve to be discarded from God's benevolent arrange
ment of natural relations. Wives, mothers, daughters, sisters,
together with a designation to many a young man dearer than
all these, are indispensable to a home. But, whatever be the
proper designation of a camp, your correspondent, after the ex-

86 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
piration of a two weeks' furlough, is once more within the round
of a sentinel's beat.
Absence. — Various unsettled business matters required at
tention at the close of the year, hence a brief leave of absence
was sought and obtained. And what almost miraculous facili
ties are afforded for the accomplishment of- these things, by
means of modern improvements ! More was accomplished
during the two weeks' absence, in travel, visits, business, speak
ing, and preaching, than could have been effected in twice as
many months, half a century since; and this, too, with immea
surably less friction, wear, tear, and fatigue. Two thousand
miles were travelled over, and yet twelve of the fourteen days
devoted to business. On several occasions, talked, visited, ar
ranged business all day, took a sleeping-car in the evening, and
three hundred miles away, and rested next morning. Had the
pleasure of preaching in Pittsburg, Allegheny, Chicago, and
Janesville, Wisconsin. In all these places, found a growing
interest in behalf of the temporal and spiritual wants of the
soldiers now in camp and on the battle-field. Every where,
also, and from every lip the question was anxiously propounded,
" When is the grand army about to move forward, and at length
effectually break the power of this gigantic rebellion?" No
wiser were the querists left, there being no data within my
reach by whicli to afford any satisfaction.
Help for Chaplains. — Special efforts seem to be made
to disparage chaplains and their services, while of all others
they most need. to be upheld and encouraged. The infidel mode
of attacking- the church, has here, also, been resorted to. Be
cause, perchance, some poor, tinkering, inefficient, time-server

87
has succeeded in obtaining the chaplain's office, hence the
whole body has been defamed and made to suffer. This is
all wrong. If any one knows of malpractice, or lack of duty
in a chaplain, then out with it. Let us have the name the re
giment, and the circumstances. If this cannot or will not be
done, then let silence be observed. Let fault-finders come into
camp for awhile, and hold up the hands of the chaplains, who
are laboring under so many discouragements.
Whilst in Pittsburg, a meeting was held on Monday evening,
December the 30th, the object of which was to elicit and com
bine a deeper and more systematic effort on behalf of our sol
diers. The large Second United Presbyterian Church (Dr.
James Prestley's,) was entirely filled. Those acquainted with
such meetings in Pittsburg, declared it to have been the largest
and most interesting one of the kind ever held in that city.
Much interest was manifested, a collection taken up, and an
efficient committee appointed, in order to get the whole business
into practical and continued working order.
New Year's Salutation. — This being the first opportu
nity for communication between you, myself, and your readers,
allow me to offer my congratulations that God has spared us
through the strangely eventful period of the past year. For
this and all other past favors, let us together erect an Ebenezer,
and write upon it : " Jehovah Nissi." With faith in God, our
selves, and our country, and the speedy coming of Emmanuel's
kingdom, let us, with largeness of heart, manly carriage, and
firm resolves, enter upon a new period of existence. If spared
to pursue the earthly journey through 1862, we will be called
to mingle with stranger and more important events, than has
been our lot hitherto to witness.

Weekly Letters. — My purpose is to give you a weekly
account of matters and things as they pass under my own ob
servation, while in camp. Giving a weekly letter, under such
circumstances, great latitude must be allowed. The communi
cations will be in my own way and manner, without consulta
tion with others. Whatever is sent to the press, has my own
name attached, so that neither editor nor reader is responsible
for the matter or manner. So lately back, and so many things
pressing, matters in camp must, in consequence, be deferred till
next week.
Tennelly Town — A miserable little, starved and worn-out village,
of ten or a dozen shabby old houses, and has a location on earth some
two and a half miles north of Georgetown, and two miles east of the
Potomac, on the line dividing the District of Columbia from Maryland.
In an old field, adjoining the said starved-looking village of Tennelly,
— accent on the first syllable — on a pleasant evening in October, 1861,
our regiment was encamped, all having the fullest expectation of
marching, within a few days, against the enemy.
Had some ill-omened prophet croaked over our evening bivouac,
that, in this old field, six long, weary months were to be dragged ont
amid sunshine and storm, amid dust and mud, damps, frosts, hail,
snow, and rain, — said croaker would either, like Jeremiah, have been
summarily let down into some miry dungeon, or had some more sum
mary punishment inflicted. Such a prophecy would have been the
greatest possible insult to Little Mac. We all then fully believed in
Little Mao ; we trusted in Little Mac ; we gloried in Little Mac ;
yea, we almost worshipped Little Mac. It is true, we knew nothmg
about Little Mac. Not what he had done, but what he was about
to do, made Little Mac great.
The truth is, our magnificent army much needed a transcendent
leader, and the crisis prompted us both to crave and expect one fit for the
occasion — one whom we could afford to idolize. At the seeming oppor
tune moment, Little Mao was ushered upon the military stage. We all

89

accepted Little Mac as one chosen of the Lord, and sent in the nick
of time by a kind Providence to save the nation. A long, a varied, a
painful trial and experience qf Little Mac has forced the humbling
impression that Little Mao was sent by the President, in his haste, in
Ms earnestness, eagerness, and ignorance.
Should any one, during those six long, weary, inactive months, dare
even to insinuate that, notwithstanding Little Mao, some things might
be going by default, such feeble unbelief was flouted and scouted and
jeered out of countenance, with the unanswerable logic: "Doesn't
Little Mao know ? Isn't he quietly laying and perfecting his mag
nificent, though as yet mysterious, plans, which are suddenly, and for
the admiration of mankind in all coming time, to squelch, to crush,- to
scatter and confound this monstrous rebellion?" We all still most
religiously believed in Little Mac. A fondly cherished idol is not
easily given up, as a dearly loved theory is not readily relinquished.
Napoleon never had a stronger hold upon the enthusiasm of his victo
rious legions, than had Little Mac over the thousands of that grand
army, encamped for so many months in and around Washington.
Strangest anomaly this in the world's history of great little men.
Little Mac had never yet led or directed a battalion of this admiring
host even in a skirmish. Little Mao was great through faith ; and
we were all living, for the time being, on faith.
The melancholy results manifested, beyond any reasonable cavil, that
during all these eight long, mysterious months of Little Mao's initiate
to the chief command, Little Mao had no plan, was incapable of form
ing any definite plan, and when Little Mac was forced to do something,
Little Mac inevitably blundered. The Army of the Potomac seemed
too big a thing for Little Mac to compass, — a machine so enormous,
that if put in motion, Little Mac dreaded a regular smash up, and
consequent ruin. All this while Little Mac remained mum as an
owl, and thus retained his character of good engineer.
It was a long, long time before the enthusiasm for Little Mao in
the army of the Potomac died out, still longer before confidence in
Little Mao failed, and longer yet ere the soldiers ceased to talk or
even to think about Little Mao. That all these, however, have at
8*

90 OAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
length fully come to pass, will be made abundantly manifest, so soon
as the soldiers have a fitting opportunity for expressing their present
opinions of Little Mac.
The writer can truly say it cost him many a struggle, long reluc
tance, commingling with sadness, to have his high conceptions of Lit
tle Mao so gradually, yet effectually, ooze out, as to make him ap
pear, in very deed, Little Mac. The idea has never been harbored,
that Little Mao was at heart a traitor, secretly desiring success to
the rebels and disaster to his own troops. Little Mac seems all
along to have been consistent and still desirous of carrying out that
consistency — desiring the union of- the States with slavery and all the
arrogant demands of the rebels guarantied to them; and, if not these
things, disaster to the Union arms. On such a basis, all his military
plans and movements seem to have been laid out and followed.
The writer's own notion of Little Mac, and one very deliberately
formed, is, that Little Mac is physically a coward — the most rational
and honorable account of his military course which can be given.
Never, so far as known, was Little Mac's body endangered in battle,
and never likely to be. Nearly all the battles of the Peninsula took
place without the presence of Little Mac, and apparently without his
planning, ordering, or oversight, Little Mac knowing scarcely aught '¦
of their commencement, progress or termination. Hence the igno
rant nature of Little Mao's despatches, so soon needing revision.
The entire military eclat of the country is ready, though sadly, to ex
claim, "Poor Little Mac!"

Tennelly, January 16th, 1862.
Winter Quarters. — Winter is sent by Him who arranges
all things wisely, as a compensation for Summer. It acts as a
balancing power, by its cold, to counteract the overheating of
Summer. As the night is to day, so does it afford a season of

TENNELLY, D. C 91
comparative rest — a time for rebracing and invigorating the
body ; as well as storing the mind with material for future and
enlarged activities. Both the animal and vegetable kingdoms
have their organizations in conformity with the changes of Sum
mer and Winter. The- giant oak grows all the sturdier because
of its long sleep, during the ruggedness of Winter. Northern
climates produce men with the most vigorous bodies and intel
lects. The bear and the opossum, at the approach of Winter,
creep into their dens, cease eating and digestion, and take a
comfortable snooze of six months, to fit them the better for out
door exercises in the coming heat.
In olden time — our grandfather's day — when the world moved
slower than at present, armies, as well as individuals,
" When chill November's surly blast,
Made field and forest bare,"
were expected to betake themselves to Winter quarters, and
nestle away until returning Spring again called to the field.
The name of Valley Forge and Norristown yet start up sad me
mories of extreme suffering, while shut up in Winter quarters,
A new and more hurried mode of warfare was, however, inau
gurated by the fiery French revolutionists. Their impetuous
spirits refused to be pent up for long months, inactively waiting
for the passage of sluggish Winter. As sung by Campbell :
"On Linden, when the sun- was low,
All bloodless lay the untrodden snow."
Bonaparte, in like manner, refused to wait on the tardy
movements of the seasons. The slaughtered thousands at Eylau
and Austerlitz were speedily frozen to the ice-bound earth.

92 camp, march and BATTLE-FIELD.
Feebly imitating those monster men-killers, our military chief
tain ordered no retirement at the falling leaf, nor gave any di
rection for permanent housing at the coming of frost and snow.
Not even was leisure given to the soldiers to provide themselves
suitable shelter from the hurricanes, the chilling rains, and
blustering snow-storms which are by no means unfrequent along
the bleak borders of the' old Potomac. The most unfortunate
part of the business, however, has been, that while no Winter
quarters have been provided, neither has there been any march
ing or fighting ordered. There seems to be a settled determi
nation to kill all the rascally secessionists by a masterly inac
tivity. This mode of warfare proves the hardest possible work
for our brave, impetuous volunteers. Had they been, or were
they even now, ordered forward, with the certainty of bloody
battle-fields; winds, rain, frost, snow, mud and rivers, would all
be despised. With eager shouts they would rush whenever
and wherever ordered into Dixie.
As damps, chills, snows, and cold increased apace, and no or
ders for marching, fighting or building came — the tents more
over presenting such seeming inadequate shelter — our boys he-
came uneasy and fidgety. Young America is, howfever, not
easily cast down, slow to put on a long face, full of expedients;
and possessing, moreover, a marvellous facility for adaptation.
Matters Were duly discussed and weighed. Without orders,
on their own hook, it was determined to prepare Winter quar
ters, and build a city, however long or short a time they might
be permitted to inhabit the same. Do this they would, and
charge uncle Sam nothing for the job. A city for over a thou
sand inhabitants has, in consequence, been erected; and I would,
dear reader, you were hero, in order to take a survey of these
new, strange and incomparable establishments for the abodes

tennelly, d. c. 93
of living civilized men. The curious, the ingenious, the comic,
and the grotesque orders in architecture are all exhibited, to
say nothing of the Gothic, the Doric, and the Grecian.
About sixteen years since, in accordance with the thrifty
farming of this region, several old fields, near Tennelly, were
abandoned by their proprietor, for the probable reason that they
refused to yield longer in answer to his tillage. Thus left to
shift for themselves, these waste lands took it into their wise
conceits to rear a crop of timber. Up grew thousands of young
pitch pines and red cedars so common to this region. After a
sixteen years' growth, as noticed hy their annual rings, they
presented most inviting material for the erection of small cabins.
Without asking leave of Uncle Abe, General M'Clellan, Con
gress, or even the owner of the wood; the beautiful young grove
was speedily invaded, axe in hand, by hundreds of sturdy as
sailants. The poetry of- — " Woodman, spare that tree," had no
power to save. Had the dwellers in Dixie looked over at the
operation, an ill omen might have met their astonished vision.
The wierd sisters of Shakspeare, prophesied to the bloody-
handed regicide, that
"When Birnam wood do come to Dunsinane,"
his fortune would at once wane. Here, the whole pine grove
seemed to be in motion towards our camp. The bustle and ac
tivity which met the astonished vision of iEneas, in the
erection of Carthage, excelled not the stir of our camp. The
zeal of Nehemiah's wall-builders surpassed not the earnestness
of our city architects.
The model pattern of structure is after this fashion. A log
cabin, about seven feet square, just the size of the tent, is

94 camp, march and battle-field.
erected about four feet high. On the top of this, the tent is
set and securely fastened down; thus answering both for roof
and window. The openings between the logs are chunked in
true Western style, and daubed both inside and out with mor
tar, made from the red siliceous earth beneath our encampment.
with the addition of a little straw, like the Egyptian brick-
makers, in order to give consistence. In most, a regular cabin-
door is made, with a latch-string hanging out, thus inviting the
passer by to pull and enter. To some, the entrance is effected
by climbing over the four feet wall, and jumping down upon
the floor. But the ingenuity, the plans, the schemes, the con
trivances for heating these rude little human abodes, constitute
much of their interest. Here and there may be seen a model
of, perhaps, the first heating apparatus ever invented. In the
centre of the cabin is a little hollow mound, the size of a basket,
made of worked and baked clay. From its centre, a place is
dug under ground to the outside of the cabin. A little open
ing in its side admits the wood. Simple, complete, effective.
Some have procured small sheet iron stoves. The larger por
tion, however, have followed the model of the pioneer; having
an outside chimney constructed of clay, straw and sticks. A
few, despising all this effeminacy, are braving the changes of
weather without any place for fire.
Think of five grown men wintering in such a little pen !
When all are in, the entire space is filled. No room for furni
ture. Looking in upon a family of five large men in their
compressed abode; the inquiry was propounded, "Where do
you find room to sleep ? " We manage it on this wise," said a
waggish fellow. "At bed- time we squeeze, press, and crook
ourselves, till all are down, compactly covering our entire space.
When we need to turn in the night, all have to be waked;

tennelly, d. c. 95
when one gives the word, " over," and with a jerk and united
struggle we manage to get on the other side." In order to
have any just conception of camp life, one would need to come
and spend at least a day and night in one of these rude abodes.
Here, compressed together, are five rational immortal beings,
with all the hopes, fears, joys, sorrows, loves, hatreds, belong
ing to humanity; mixing together and bringing pleasure or
pain to the inmates. A single wicked, unkind, ill-tempered
person may make a whole mess unhappy all day and all night.
With genial companions, sunshine may be in these rude abodes
all the while.
Our good Colonel has got up in the world, as is fitting. For
him and his staff has been erected a commodious, regular log-
cabin. The structures of 1840 excelled not. Roof, floor,
bunks, glass-windows, door and latch-string, always out. Nearly
all the company officers have, in like manner, erected comfort
able log-cabins, with stoves. Your correspondent continues to
be a dweller in tent. The cloth house received from Uncle
Sam, in August, affords him shelter still, and probably may to
the end of the service. A small metal stove has been intro
duced. My little son, of ten years, who joined me at New
Year's in camp life, is delighted with his new home; declaring
it to be eminently convenient, and wonderfully comfortable.
Yet all this pains-taking city may be deserted to-morrow; a
new camp formed, and new erections made. What a picture
our condition affords of human life ! All are tenants at will;
these earthly tabernacles soon taken down, and we discharged
from these changes and fightings. Our men would gladly for
sake these hasty structures and march forward to danger and
to death; yet too many, perhaps, without a serious thought as
to how soon the soul may be called to leave its present dwell-

96 camp, march and battle-field.
ing. Can we who profess to be Christians, say, truthfully, with
Paul, " In this earthly tabernacle we groan, earnestly desiring
to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven ? Not
that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality
might be swallowed up of life." Happy, thrice happy they,
who can say, " For we know that if our earthly house of this
tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, a house
not made with hands, eternal in the heavens."

Tennelly, January 23d, 1862.
Christian Association in Camp. — Two are better than
one. One shall put ten, and two shall put, not twenty, but a
hundred to flight. Union is strength. Christians, in the quiet
and ordinary walks of home, are perhaps not often fully aware
of the strength derived from fellow-professors, enabling them to
pursue a consistent life. "As iron sharpeneth iron, so the coun
tenance of a man his friend." The more exposed the condition,
the more need of this external assistance.
Though, in the army of the Potomac, there is, perhaps, as
large, it may be larger, proportion of professing Christians, than
in any other of modern times, yet does the number of professors
fall vastly below those who either make no profession, or are
among the openly wicked. The constant tendencies of camp-
life, it must not be forgotten, are to deaden piety and blunt all
religious feelings. To rub constantly against all manner of
wickedness — daily to see it, hear it, taste it, smell it, and feel
it, and not be influenced, would argue more than human — an
gelic — divine. So strong are these tendencies of and to evil,

tennelly, d. c. 97
that many a professor, not, perhaps, very eminent for activity
at home, finds it a severe trial to let his profession be known at
all in camp. This too many seem never able to do, unless
drawn out by the influence of others. Hence some intelligent
combination of all the religious elements in camp, becomes a
matter of deep importance. Various efforts have accordingly
been made, in "different localities, to effect so desirable an ob
ject. Among these, churches, so called, have been organized,
confessions of faith framed, and the sacraments, at least by pro
posal, administered. The propriety of such a procedure, to say
the least, seems exceedingly doubtful. No sound Presbyterian.
can look upon such a self-constituted organization, but with
feelings of disapprobation. To organize, under any circum
stances, and administer sealing ordinances, without Presbytery,
elder, or session, subverts all our notions of Scriptural order.
A temporary organization, for mutual support and co
operation, is what would seem to be consistent and desirable.
Such, we have been lately attempting, and with the most en
couraging evidences of the Divine approbation. About a week
since, after consulting with, a few friends, private intimation
was given that a meeting would be held for consultation. A
much larger number than was expected came. All, with one
voice, declared the need they felt for a more intimate fellowship
with others, if for no other object than for personal strengthen
ing. Committees were appointed, and a time set for perfecting
the proposed organization. Atthe next meeting, a much larger
number were present, and still more interest manifested. Using
all the judgment and experience our condition allowed, the or
ganization was completed, by the adoption of the following con
stitution. Its publication may be profitable, not only to show

98 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
friends at home the manner in which we are endeavoring here
to do the Lord's work, but also to afford others, who may make
like efforts, the benefit of our counsel.
Article I. This society shall be called, " The Christian
Association of the Thirteenth regiment Pennsylvania Volun
teers." Article II. Its object is the moral and religious improve
ment of its members, and of their fellow-soldiers of the regi
ment. Article III. The following pledge, with a corresponding
life and character, is the condition of membership. It shall re
ceive the solemn assent of each candidate, in the presence of
the society, prior to the entry of his name upon the roll, namely:
"Adoring the grace of the Triune God, and hoping for salva
tion through the blood of Christ, I promise to endeavor, by the
help of the Holy Spirit, to live according to the rule of the
Bible, and to be faithful to all the duties of a member of this
association." Article IV. Any person belonging to the regiment, who
has the requisite moral qualifications, may become a member.
Nominations for membership shall lie over one meeting, and be
approved by a majority of votes.
Article V. The officers of the association shall be a Presi
dent, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, and a Board of Ma
nagers, consisting of one from each company.
Article VI. It shall be the duty of the Board of Managers
to take the charge and distribution of whatever reading matter
may be provided for the use of the regiment, to provide a suit
able place in which to hold the meetings of the association, and

TENNELLY, D. C 99
also to transact all business necessary for the welfare of the asso
ciation. Article VII. Any violation of the rules of Christian mo
rality, if persisted in after proper measures have been used to
reclaim the offender, shall be followed by expulsion. A mem
ber thus excluded, shall not be restored, except upon full evi
dence of amendment, and by a vote of two-thirds of those pre
sent, notice of which shall have been given at a previous meeting.
Article VIII. The association may adopt such regulations
as, from time to time, may be found needful.
Article IX. The powers that be are ordained of God, and
we are in arms in defence of His ordinance. It is, therefore,
the duty of members of this association to signalize themselves,
by the exemplary, conscientious, and fearless performance of
all the duties of good soldiers, by strict conformity to the regu
lations of the authorities, and prompt obedience to our officers,
and by respecting the lives and comfort of the wounded and
vanquished, "doing unnecessary violence to no man."
Article X. It shall be the duty of every member to use
diligence in endeavoring to advance especially the spiritual wel
fare of his fellow-soldiers, and to induce all proper persons to
unite with the association.
Article XI. It shall, in like manner, be a duty to seize
every suitable opportunity for securing the organization of simi
lar associations in all the regiments with which they may be
brought into communication.
It will thus be seen that our Union is similar in organization
and design to the Young Men's Christian Associations, in the
various cities of our country. This seems eminently the field
for such temporary combinations.

100 camp, march, and battle-field.
The very first action of our association was a resolve to have
a large tent for religious purposes ; — nor would we call upon our
kind and generous Christian friends at home for aid in this en
terprise, but would raise the money — about $200 — ourselves.
This has already heen accomplished, the tent sent for from Phi
ladelphia, and soon expected here, of which, when it comes, you
shall hear farther. -
We have resolved to hold two weekly meetings for prayer
and conference, which have already heen commenced, with a
full attendance and much interest. God has evidently heard
the millions of petitions which went up before the throne during
the late week for prayer. It was at its close that our present
movement began, and the interest is soul-cheering.
The weather of late has been very disagreeable for camp-life.
Rain, rain, rain — and the. mud! enough in this region at pre
sent to plaster a continent. I heard a wag declare to his fellow,
while lately wading, with apparent difficulty, through a kind of
slough in camp, " That the mud was already up to his coat-tail,
and still rising."

Tennelly, January. 2H. 1362.
Camp Appliances. — The pomp and circumstance of glorious
war long continued, connected with the influences of camp life,
have an undoubted tendency to bring men back to their abnor
mal condition, — to live, think, feel, and act as savages. It will
be understood that our Thirteenth Regiment cherishes no wish
to have a life-long continuance in camps, and on battle-fields. A
strong repugnance is felt against becoming savages. Our men
came here in August with the desire and expectation of getting

101
right at these rebels, chastising them speedily into order and
obedience, and then return home. Had it been told our im
petuous young men when volunteering for this work, that more
than five months would be dragged' out in the monotonous
routine of camp life, without any active service, it may be safely
affirmed that hardly one in ten would have been here. But in
order to make the best of a supposed bad bargain, very praise
worthy efforts have been, and still are making, in order to in
troduce into camp, so far as possible, all the wonted and fami
liar arts of domestic life.
Almost every known trade, profession, or calling, has its re
presentative in our regiment — tailors and carpenters, masons
and plasterers, moulders and glass-blowers, pudlers and rollers,
machinists and architects, printers, book-binders, and pub
lishers; gentlemen of leisure, politicians, merchants, legislators,
judges, lawyers, doctors, preachers, — some malicious fellow might
ask the privilege of completing the catalogue by naming jail
birds, idlers, loafers, drunkards, and gamblers; but we beg his
pardon, and refuse the license. Were all this talent, skill and
energy set to work, a city could speedily be reared, and all the
multiplied appliances of civilized life set in motion and success
fully carried on within the compass of a single regiment.
So far as matters have yet developed themselves, no evidence
exists that the whole of our three years' enlistment may not be
spent in this locality — guarding a precious abortion of a city
called Washington. Our Senators and Congressmen slowly
jogging along with their important business, as though no war
existed, will have no idea of being left for years to come, in this
out-of-the-way place, without a multitude of bayonets in the
suburbs. But whatever be in the womb of the future, it is both

102 CAMP, march and battle-field.
pleasing and instructive to witness among our men, a full de
termination to make the best of every condition. That which
enables the American people to' excel all others in the pursuits
of life, is a ready adaptation — in common parlance; "ready to
turn the hand to any thing." All the appliances of home life
which are possible or befitting, are being introduced into our
encampment. Printing Press. — For some time we have enjoyed the pre
sence and active operation of a neat portable Printing Press,
together with a corps of practical printers, editors, publishers;
and contributors both in prose and poetry, and these, too, with
out stint or measure. A weekly newspaper called, " The Thir
teenth Regiment," is published, which has now reached its
tenth number. It is almost exclusively filled with original mat
ter, and items of interest connected with the historyof the regi
ment. A specimen number is herewith transmitted. Job
Printing is also neatly executed in camp, as the enclosed
pamphlet copy of the Constitution of our '¦ Christian Associa
tion" will certify.
A Photograph Establishment, with all the modern ap
pliances of this wonderful art, has also been introduced, and
operated by practical artists, who are members of the regiment.
The design is, to have not only the whole regiment photo
graphed, but also each individual member, together with the
camp, its connected objects and scenery, with incident and
places on the march; thus obtaining a living history of the
campaign for future use.
Various Singing Clubs may often be heard exercising
the vocal organs; while, in addition to the regimental music, a

tennelly, d. c. 108
string band discourses, evening by evening, pleasing and merry
melodies. A Temperance League has been formed, in connec
tion with which a goodly number both of officers and privates
stand pledged wholly to abstain from the use of intoxicating
drinks during the campaign. Our " Christian Association,"
spoken of in my last, is combining arid, bringing into active
exercise all the-* existing religious elements of the regiment;
with the hope, also, that by the Divine blessing, these elements
may, by such instrumentalities, be largely increased.
Our Postal Arrangements for the regiment demand
special notice and commendation: We have a Post Office, Let
ter Box, Post Master and Mail Carrier. Each morning at 9
o'clock, our post man leaves camp for Washington, with all the
mail matter, accumulated in twenty-four hours. A horse and
buggy are needed for its conveyance. In the afternoon, that
for the regiment is brought out, and is assorted before being
brought to camp, that for each company in a parcel by itself.
Each company has a member appointed to receive and distri
bute its own package. Thus, in a few minutes after arrival,
each letter or paper finds its proper destination. The only
cause of complaint is, that letters enough do not (Tome through
this well-opened channel. Our boys write vastly more letters
•than they receive. Dear Friends at home, this should not be.
You can hardly imagine the eagerness with which the mail
man's return is looked for; the delight on the reception of a
letter; the sadness, sometimes even to tears, with which those
who are disappointed turn away. No greater service can be
done the Chaplain, no greater pleasure or profit to the soldier,
than for relatives at home, or acquaintances frequently to write
them kind, advisory, encouraging letters. Several hundred let-

104 CAMP, march and battle-field.
ters go from our camp each day; an equal, if not -a larger num
ber, should by all means be returned.
The Condition of Health in our regiment at present is
very remarkable. Not a single case of serious illness. Some
dozen are in the hospital, a number of them seemingly because
it has become quite a comfortable place. This general good.
health may, no doubt, through the Divine blessing, be attribu
ted to the good appointments of camp, and general comforts of
the men; in connection with the present perfection in the ar
rangements of our regimental hospital. Through the bounty of
absent friends, ladies' committees, and camp arrangements, our
sick are now comfortable, and as well attended, some of them
far better, than if at home.
Deep Gloom overshadows our camp to-day. Last evening,
about 7 o'clock, two of our soldiers were instantly killed by the
discharge of a gun, said to have been intentional. The man
who fired the gun was in his tent; the muzzle pointed out of
the door, and said to have beem aimed at a soldier, named
Young, from Pittsburg. The ball entered his eye, tearing off
the entire sid*e of his head; then passing on for a hundred yards
striking a young soldier named Robb, from Butler county, Pa.,
directly in the breast, passing through his heart. The latter
was a fine little fellow, to whom I had become much attached,
from his attendance for several weeks in our hospital. My sor
row for him seems as for a brother. After appropriate reli
gious services to-day, we sent them both home on long furlough,
there to be buried by sorrowing friends, — more sorrowful than
had these sons and brothers fallen in battle, by violence from
the enemy.

TENNELLY, D. D. 105
Tennelly, D. C, February 5th, 1862.
Church Tent. — As informed in a previous letter, the first
special effort of our Christian Association, was a resolve to have
a suitable place for worship — the weather for weeks wholly for
bidding out-door exercise. Our friends in Philadelphia and
Pittsburg having been so thoughtful and generous, with respect
to reading matter and many comforts for our sick, there was a
reluctance to call upon them anew for assistance in this matter.
Faith was cherished that a sufficient amount for the purpose
could be raised in the regiment. The effort was made, and
proved successful beyond expectation. We at once wrote to
Philadelphia for the latest patent improvement in church-tents,
and received ours in camp on Saturday afternoon, February 1st.
Although the mud was awfully discouraging, both officers and
men turned out, with various implements, and scraped, pushed
and shoved the mud and water from a sufficient space, until
terra firma was reached; dug a trench around it, had the tent.
pitched before dark, with a stove up and burning. It is a beau
tiful structure, whether viewed from within or without. It is,
withal, very convenient — circular in form, thirty feet in diama-
ter, twenty feet high, will accommodate three hundred people,
cost $175 — $6 freight — and cdl paid.
'Dedication. — On Sabbath, the 2d instant, at 11 a. m., it
was publicly, appropriately, and profitably dedicated as our re
gimental Bethel, to the worship of God. Nearly all the officers
of the regiment were present, with as many privates as could
find standing room, — the time being too short to make provision
for seats. The dedication sermon was preached from Exodus
xl. 17-19. Train of thought : — The tabernacle in the wilder-
ness,T;he first place of worship ever formally erected for the

106 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
worship of God; together with the similarity of our present
condition and tent erection. Worshippers of all nations and
times have endeavored to satisfy a want within them to have a
settled locality, a definite place, a grave, a mountain-top, a cave,
a tabernacle, a church, — more sacred than all other spots, —
where to pay their devotions to whatever god they chanced to
worship. We have felt these wants, and hence this tabernacle.
Will God condescend to dwell in such a structure? He did
of old, visibly; He will as truly here, by the unseen, yet power
ful influence of his Spirit, in sustaining His children, and
changing the hearts of sinners. We now erect this tent in the
name of our God, and to His service dedicate it, in order that
we may have a fit place for preaching and for prayer; invoking
blessings on our regiment, our army, and our country; as a place
for praise, for thanksgiving, for instruction — here to be fed, to
grow in grace, to hold sweet fellowship with each other and
with God — here to have many seasons of precious enjoyment —
and here, also, to induce others to come and share with us like
enriching blessings.
At the close of the brief sermon, Colonel James M. McCarter,
of the 93d Pennsylvania Volunteers, by invitation, then ad
dressed the assembly, in language earnest, eloquent, soul-stir
ring. The special object of his address, or sermon, was to con
vince the soldier that the fear and service of God were the only
true sources to render him brave, happy, contented, and always
ready and cheerful in the performance of duty; hence, both his
duty and interest carefully to cultivate that religion in camp.
The colonel then, in a solemn and earnest prayer, dedicated our
canvass house to the worship of Almighty God. Don't be un
easy, dear reader, lest the dignity of the ministry, and the
usual proprieties of such an occasion, were violated by a colonel

TENNELLY, D. C. 107
preaching a sermon and offering a dedication prayer. It was
my happiness to meet Colonel McCarter, during our three
months' campaign, as a reverend chaplain. Doffing the eagle
and the sword, he has happily not laid aside Christ, but still
preaches Him in camp, and earnestly commends the religion of
the Saviour to his men. What a glorious spectacle, did each
Colonel, together with each officer in our grand army, give
such an example! Victory, speedy, entire and lasting, would
soon be ours!
Remarks on Ministers of the Gospel becoming Officers. — The
propriety of the subject referred to — ministers of the gospel becoming
military officers — has been a matter of much thought, as well as close
observation, during the last three years and a half. The more so since
the author has had inducements presented to him for leaving the chap
laincy, and accepting military commissions. The conviction, how
ever, has been deliberately formed, that a minister of the gospel ought not
to leave the exercise of his sacred caUing, and accepUa military commission.
This conviction has been strengthened and confirmed by the following
considerations : —
First. Such a course proves injurious to the minister himself, often
destroying the minister without making the officer. A large number
of professed ministers, during the present war, have gone as soldiers,
generally as commissioned officers. Careful attention, so far as pos
sible, has been given to such cases, and the conclusion is that the vast
majority thus become less fitted for a successful performance of minis
terial duties, than before doffing the shoulder-straps and the sword. A
veil, wholly oblivious, would willingly be thrown over the sad results
of military life upon that brilliant reverend colonel who assisted in
dedicating our church-tent.
Second. Such a course has a bad effect upon the privates of our
army. Varied and multiplied have been the references made to this
matter in camp, both by the religious and irreligious soldiers, and in
variably have they been after this manner: "He's missed his calling."

108 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
"Perhaps, couldn't succeed in the ministry." " Got ambitious ; Wants
to shine under shoulder-straps;" or "Looking after larger pay."
Third. It produces an unfavorable impression upon the officers of
our army. Any one may satisfy himself of this who will make the
needful inquiry.
¦» This may be considered a very doubtful objection, yet certainly it
is worth something, not to have the sacred calling lessened in the esti
mation of our military commanders.
Fourth. The influence upon the minds of the Christian community
is not good. Of this I have not had so good an opportunity for judging;
but, from various sources of information, have no doubt of the correct
ness of the proposition. The fullest persuasion is entertained that, in
nine cases out of ten, were the neighborhoods visited from whence
ministers have gone as military officials, and were professors of all
denominations called into council, and the proposition submitted, the
decision would be: " The impression upon our minds was not favor
able." Fifth. "Fas est ab hoste deceri." The rebel army has been quite
prolific of reverend captains, colonels, and generals, from Bishop Polk
down. What are the impressions of Southern religion upon our own
minds from this fact?
Sixth. There can be but little question but that the number of pro
fessed ministers, rushing into the purely military service, had much
influence upon our late Congress, in the passage of that infidel, that
more than heathen, that most atrocious act of the last century, as an
encroachment upon the prerogative of Christ's kingdom, — making the
pastors of our churches subjects of miUtary draft.
Seventh. — A minister of Christ is called directly, by the Prince of
the kings of the earth, to service in His kingdom. In accepting that
highest of all possible positions within the reach of man, the ambas
sador of Christ, by profession at least, relinquishes all worldly aims
and dignities. To forsake that high calling for any minor one, is an
act of treason against Christ; and a cruel injury against his brethren
in office.
Eighth. So far as the tenor of the Bible is understood, it forbids

109
ministers to take the carnal sword, while Christian people are often
urged to fight. Although the Jews were among the most warlike of
nations, we have no record that the tribe of Levi ever fought. If church
history be not read amiss, the leading opinion, in all ages, has been
averse to ministers of religion taking military commands.
These convictions, on a most important subject, are not written with
the intent to give offence to mjich esteemed brethren who may differ
both in theory and practice. Worthy exceptions does the writer know,
yet so rare are they as but to confirm the rule.
Prayer -Meeting in Tent. — A prayer-meeting was ap
pointed at six in the evening. When the hour came, the tent
was still more densely crowded than at the morning service.
All stood, closely packed together. God's Spirit seemed to be
present. The exercises were voluntary — reading, singing, brief -
addresses, and prayer. Though the exercises were somewhat
protracted, yet, after the benediction was pronounced, the
,crowd seemed unwilling to leave. Again and again, a hundred
voices joined in singing, with much apparent unction, several
familiar songs of praise; — still various groups remained, talking
together and encouraging each other. Before leaving, twenty-
six additional names were given in, accompanied with a request
to become members of our Christian Association.
Other Uses for Tent. — Our purpose is to make the most
extensive and profitable use possible of our new tent. Use it
Sabbath-day and evening; also, Wednesday evening, for re
ligious service. On Thursday evening, occupy it with a sing
ing-class. An effort will be made to have a literary lecture,
each Tuesday or Friday evening. The portion of our regiment
wearing shoulder-straps, will also be urged to furnish a lecture,
weekly, on Military Science. In addition to these, our tent is
10

110 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
already being arranged for a large reading-room, to be kept
warm all day, and lighted each evening. We have already on
hand above five hundred bound volumes, besides a large amount
of tracts, pamphlets and magazines. Two hundred copies of
the best religious newspapers of the country are received weekly
for general distribution.
Not Boasting.- — These statements and statistics are not
made in the spirit of boasting, but in thankfulness. Grateful
are we to dear Christian friends, in various localities, who have
so promptly and generously helped us. All such we most cor
dially invite and urge not to be weary in well-doing. Although
our regiment has now, perhaps, the largest and best supply of .
suitable reading matter, together with means for intellectual
and moral culture, of any in the service, yet are these still quite
inadequate to the need. Nearly twelve hundred men are to be
mentally and morally fed. We want a book for each man in
the regiment. A few historical literary and scientific works
are especially desirable. Send them to us, friends. Doubters
have queried, " How will you get your tent and books moved?
The Government won't do it. Well, -we're not gone from here
yet; but, when we do, as we may sometime, and the Govern
ment won't carry them, we will. Our Christian Association
has already resolved, in that case, it will hire a man, with his
wagon, to transport them Send on the books.
Incident. — When in the cars, leaving Pittsburg, at the time
of my late visit, a friend — a business man of the city — handed
me thirty-five dollars, to be used for the benefit of the 13th re
giment. To publish his name here, I know, would be distaste
ful to him. This can be done some other way. God bless him.

TENNELLY, D. C. • 111
His bounty is doing good to the souls of men. But don't let
all the business men of Pittsburg, because the name is not given,
take credit to themselves for the donation. Let those who
know they were not the donor, "go and do likewise."

Camp Tennelly, February 12th, 1862.
Metaphysics. — You have given sufficient attention to that
indefinable science called metaphysics, readily to agree with the
assertion, that the human mind is a strange jumble of see-ming
contradictions. Especially is that sentinel within us, whose
business, it seems, is to challenge and decide on the right and
wrong of things, -designated conscience — a curious, wayward
machine. Your memory will readily carry you back to college
days, when, in our discussions, we were wont to toss this non- -
descript thing about; turning it over, and round, and upside
down, and all the while debating with each other, whether this
thing called conscience were an innate, an original principle of
the human mind, or a thing merely acquired, as the horse gets
the habit of jumping at the crack ofthe whip.
Meum and Tuum. — But whatever be the exact nature of
this mental phenomenon, one subject connected with its exer
cise had by me been long considered as pretty fairly settled,
and fully understood — Meum and Tuum — the difference be
tween mine and thine — that which was thine, if it became mine
without a quid pro quo — a fair value — had some serious flaw in
the transfer. Ask the boy who blubbers on the street, what

112 camp, march and battle-field.
ails him ? " Why, Bob has took my kite." " But are you
sure it was yours ?" " I made it." Unanswerable logic.
God's reason for claiming the ownership of the world. " It's
mine," adds another, " I bought it, and paid for it." Against
encroachments on such inborn feelings, the eighth command
utters its veto : " Thou shalt not steal." To infringe this in
junction a sixpence worth, at once consigns a hitherto honest
character to long years of suspicion and disgrace.
A Puzzle.— Concerning this supposed settled question,
however, all my metaphysics, ethics, moral science and divinity-
seem to be, of late, strangely at fault. The fact is, I have he-
come puzzled, bewildered — a practical question has arisen too
difficult for me to solve. It has, in consequence, been in my
thoughts to propose a mass convention, to be composed of all
the metaphysical ghosts, and mental gladiators, from Aristotle
down to the profound nonsense of Ralph Waldo Emerson ; to
unite in council with these all the French Rationalists, German
Neologists, English and American Casuists — professors of " The
end sanctifies the means " — together with the D. D.'s, who of
late years have made the astounding discovery in ethics, that
there are organic sins, for which of course no individual is re
sponsible — political evils, moreover, about which members of
the Church, as such, have no concern whatever; to have this
august and learned assembly presided over by the late member
of the Cabinet, but now famous rebel General, Floyd. The
gravity and importance of the question to be investigated, is
not only of untold interest with respect to morals, but of many
millions' worth as it regards money.
Dilemma Still. — Yet, how to fairly state the dilemma, or
problem — this moral, political, military or intellectual query,

113
before such massive learning as in the proposed body, quite
puzzles me. It may perhaps be reached by a circumlocution, a
figure of speech — a metaphor. It may be fairly presumed that
a very large proportion of our Senators and Congressmen, our
Generals and Colonels, our Majors and Quartermasters, our
Captains, Lieutenants and privates, our agents and contractors
are honest; that they would not steal, even were the opportu
nity given — that they couldn't be induced to put a wrong
cipher in a neighbor's note of hand; were a purse found on the
road, the owner would be advertised for. To insinuate the
meanness of dishonesty would cut at once the most stable
friendship, and alienate old friends, not to mention still more
serious consequences. All readily granted, you say. Well —
but there is an old gentleman — more's the pity he's a myth — a
fabulous character — said venerable is reputed rich, possessing,
or ought now to possess, much money; large inheritance, many
servants withal, and property in ships, armaments, cannons-
guns, wagons, horses, clothing, beef, flour, etc., etc. This
wealthy old personage, as a title of distinction, familiarity and
affection, is usually nicknamed, "Uncle Sam" — fully written,
it would be " His Excellency Uncle Samuel, Esq." He pos
sesses the envious reputation of being strictly honest, trust
worthy, generous to a fault, kind, fair in his dealings, tenderly
careful of his children, and hospitable even to prodigality. To
wrong such a character in the least, or speculate on his pro
perty, would seem to be the greatest of outrages. Here, how
ever, comes that grave, unanswered problem.
Pilfering from Uncle Sam. — Honest, honorable, Chris
tian Senators and Congressmen, their clerks and aids, put their
hands into this worthy old gentleman's pocket, and in various
10*

114

ways appropriate to themselves lots of his cash, and all this, too,
without the least apparent misgiving, or dreaming of encroach
ment upon number eight of the Decalogue — make thereat no
grimaces, show no misgivings, reveal no doubts. And, what is
still more curious, they are all this while held in high estima
tion both for honesty and honorable dealing, not merely by
gambling fraternities, but by all classes of the Christian com
munity. Examining still farther, we find Generals, Colonels, Majors,
Quartermasters, Commissaries, Captains, Subalterns, privates,
contractors, employers, civilians, not only nibbling, but actually
gormandizing, whenever occasion offers, at the old man's table;
then wiping their mouths, offering no pay, nor even manifest
ing thereat the slightest misgiving. These are all likewise es
teemed gentlemen in high places, and Christian communities.
Every thing belonging to this much injured old personage,
whenever it can be conveniently seized, and appropriated to
private use, by officials and employers, is done without the least
seeming hesitancy or remorse. Throughout his present great
army, articles of clothing, blankets, bread, beef, pork, axes,
shovels, wood, etc., so far as permitted by the bayonet, are
seized upon and indiscriminately used, without the thought of
pay. Should any surprise be manifested at such proceedings,
.the look, if not the speech, replies, " Oh, it is only Uncle
Sam's." Hearing an officer lately offering some objections to
so common a use of things, my remark was, " Colonel, the mil
lennium is near at hand." "Do let us hear what signs you
discover hereabouts of its coming." "Why, you remember
when Christianity commenced its career that, with gladness,
its votaries had all things in common." " Oh, in that case,".
he replied, " the millennium is here already."

TENNELLY, D. c 115
*
What is to be Done. — Until a radical change be made in
public morals, of what avail are' Congressional investigating
committees, in order to ferret out and expose such private ab
sorption of public means. However glaring the proof, no one
has any fear of being condemned. If the person have only got
rich by his peculations, few churches but would gladly receive
him as an honored member, did he but make application.
These investigating committees had, perhaps, better turn their
energies in some other direction. Though their success be
never so great, it will only be the fox in the fable : Reynard
became swamped in the mud, and was presently covered by a
swarm of hungry flies, who were fast sucking out his life blood.
" Shall I drive them away, says a passing friend." " By no
means, says the fox : these cover me all over, and must now be
nearly full; drive them away, and a new swarm of hungry ones
will at once come, and I am a dead fox."
Neology. — But the cause, the source, the deep recesses of
the human heart from whence springs this community of feel
ing respecting public property, is what we would have investi
gated by the proposed convention. Perhaps, when the cost of
this war comes to be footed up, an assembly of tax-payers might
be no inappropriate body before which to lay the unsolved
problem. It is possible a learned German Neologist might
throw some light on the subject. Now don't quit reading at
the introduction of such a seemingly unintelligible phrase.
Although a thousand muddy semi-religious volumes have been
published in German, within the past naif century, in appa
rent fruitless efforts to have us comprehend Neology; neverthe
less it is quite easily grasped, and readily understood. A
school-boy may learn its meaning. Hear it in a sentence:

116 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
•
" God is every where, and every thing is God — I am a part of
every thing; therefore Jam God; and, moreover, seeing that I
am the most beautiful, intelligent, and important part of every
thing, it follows, that of all things I am the most deserving of
worship; therefore, I'll worship myself." Now a similar train
of reasoning and conclusions, evidently tends to foster and give
countenance to this wide-spread, and alarming public peeula-
lation. " Uncle Sam is every where in the United States, and
every body in the United States is Uncle Sam. I am in the
United States, and quite an important part thereof; therefore,
I am Uncle Sam, and have consequently a right to use freely!
as my own, all that pertains to him."
Organic Sins. — We have serious apprehensions, that the
D. D.'s, who, in order to meet a contingency, some years since,
•made the marvellous discovery, " That there are organic sins" —
leaving blame on no one — political evils, and no one at fault —
these same stand chargeable with much of this evil. This
leaven so widely introduced both from the pulpit and the reli
gious press, has corrupted the public morals to a most alarming
degree. Let us have the proposed convention, and the whole
matter probed. Seriously, a state of morals is thus revealed,
very discouraging to our stability as a free people, even though
secession be crushed out in a few months.
Religious Condition. — Since my last, the interest con
nected with the meetings in our new tent has evidently in
creased. Some have been refreshed, some reolaimed, and others
inquiring: "0, Lord, revive thy work in the midst of the
years." Pray for the spread of the Gospel iu the forbidding
atmosphere of camp life.

TENNELLY, D. C. 117
Camp Tennelly, D. C, February 27th, 1862.
New Things in Washington. — A new and interesting fea
ture of Washington society and influences the present winter,
has been a course of some fifteen evening lectures, called " As
sociation Lectures." Never, till the present season, has any
public lecturer, however famous, been invited, or even allowed,
•to address an audience in the national Capitol, who was ex
pected in any way to discuss and openly oppose American sla
very. So effectually had the despotism of oppression fastened
itself on all public opinion, that the censorship of both press
and speech had become as absolute and galling, in its centre of
professed republican influences, as in Paris or St. Petersburgh.
No moral influence of the North seemed strong enough to shake
off this horrid charm of oppression. In a large majority of
cases, where a Northern man or family, no matter what profes
sion of anti-slavery proclivities they made at home, came to
Washington, even but for a winter, and entered its society and
influences, they at once bowed the knee, closed the lips, acknow
ledged the despot's authority, and if any repugnance were felt,
it was in silence. The few who still dared to speak in the Ser
nate and Congress, did it under a sense of duty, or in fear
of their constituents ; did it often, as all know, under protest,
and in fear of their lives. A physical revolution by the sword,
became a necessity, in order to free our public sentiment, as re
flected in the Capital, from this infamous bowing the knee to
an idol.
Leaven in Washington. — There has, nevertheless, been
in Washington, for years, quite a respectable number of men and
families, who have been writhing in silence under the slaveo-

118 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
cratic ostracism. When, therefore, professed Republicanism
became inaugurated in the White House, these persons felt at
some liberty to speak and act. After consultation, it was re
solved to form a Lecture Association, and invite the radical sen
timent of the North, hitherto unheard here, to come and give
utterance to itself. The effort has been attended with a large
degree of success. Such men as Drs. Brownson and Cheever,
Horace Greeley, Curtis and Wendell Phillips, have heen invited,*
and lectured to large audiences, without a dog wagging his
tongue. Some feature of slavery, and its connection with the
present rebellion, has been discussed by every speaker. The
chaste and commodious hall of the Smithsonian Institute was,
by request, granted for the lectures. The venerable poet, John
Pierpont, who came here first as a chaplain, but health proving
inadequate to the service, has now a position in the Treasury
Office, became President of the Association. The Smithsonian
Institute being somewhat conservative, fogyish, and, perhaps,
a little secesh-inclined, became somewhat uneasy, lest some
odium might rest on it for allowing such radicalism into its
hall, desired it to be understood, that it had no hand in origi
nating the lectures. At the opening of each lecture thereafter,
the venerable President, in a peculiarly mild and semi-comic
manner, gave the announcement, "That the Institution had
nothing whatever to do with the lectures, only allowing the use
of its hall, and that the Association was alone responsible for
them." After this had been announced for several successive
evenings, it was afterwards, at the opening of each meeting, re
ceived by the audience with bursts of laughter and applause.
Such lectures in Washington are surely an index of the mar
vellous change which has been working for the past year. Mos^
earnestly is it to be hoped that, in the coming re-arrangement

TENNELLY, D. C. 119
of things, the freest liberty of speech will be guarantied under
the shadow of the Stars and Stripes, as they wave over the capi
tal of our Union. Having been presented with a season, ticket
to these lectures ¦ by a member of the Association, occasion has
been taken to hear a number of celebrities not heretofore seen.
Smithsonian Institute. — A brief account of this Smith
sonian Institution, of which all have heard somewhat, where
the lectures were delivered, may not prove uninteresting. It is
an institution fast attaining a world-wide reputation, with an in
fluence and importance constantly increasing. Its publications
are already found, not only in all the important libraries of our
own land, but also in those of every other civilized country.
In 1828, there died, in Genoa, Italy, a poor, desolate, old
curmudgeon of an English bachelor, named James Smithson.
Said old miser was rich, having over half a million in money,
was withal proud, selfish and ambitious. Too mean and con
tracted even to get married, had no immediate heir, yet thirsted
for some perpetuation of his miserable self. His money was
the only thing by which this could be effected, — but how? was
the difficulty. He had evidently no confidence in his own
English nation. If left in their care, they would somehow ab
sorb it, and not give the desired glory. He would, therefore-,
leave his entire wealth to the Government of the United States
in perpetual trust, with this proviso in his will; "That It
-should be used to found at Washington, an establishmant un
der the name of the Smithsonian- Institution, for the increase
and diffusion of knowledge among men." His half million of
dollars finally got in possession of the United States Govern
ment. In 1846, the present Institution was founded. The
large amount of interest already accumulated has enabled the

120 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
appointees of our Government to defray all the expenses hitherto,
and still add very considerably to the original capital. It is,
therefore, by far the most wealthy and independent monetary
institution of the kind in the United States. The building
stands in the centre of a fifty-two acre lot of public land, beau
tifully ornamented with a large variety of trees and shrubbery,
arranged by the late lamented Downing. The structure is the
most beautiful architectural edifice in the United States, — the
only beautiful one in Washington, — standing in living contrast
to the other massive public buildings, which are all wide-spread
and squat, without any claims to artistic beauty. The style of
architecture is that of the last of the twelfth century, the latest
variety of the rounded style, as it is found immediately ante
rior to its merging into the early Gothic, and is known as the
Norman, the Lombard, or Romanesque. The semicircular arch,
stilted, is employed throughout, in doors, windows, and other
openings. It is the first edifice in the style of the twelfth cen
tury, and of a character, not ecclesiastical, ever erected in this
country. The entire length of the building is -147 feet, by 160-
The material is a lilac-gray variety of sandstone, found on the
Potomac, twenty miles above Washington. Its library now
contains about 30,000 volumes of very valuable books.
Increasing Influence. — Its spacious halls and corridors,
already contain an immense number of beautiful, well-selected
and arranged specimens, in almost every branch of natural his
tory, with a constant increase. Few so blunt of feeling or dull
of perception, who could spend a few hours in walking through
them, but must have some new and pleasing conceptions of
order, of beauty, and the amazing variety and wisdom of the
Creator's power and goodness. The institute is already dif-

TENNELLY, D. C. 121
fusing a wide-spread and healthful influence in cultivating, ex
citing, and enlarging a taste for the study of natural science
and history. How healthful and elevating will be the influence
on the whole community, when a taste for the study of all
God's handiworks becomes universal — when each school-boy
shall become a naturalist, and each school-house contain its ca
binet — when all shall be taught to look up through nature to
nature's God; — and the lesson gathered from each object of
creation, that " the hand which made it is divine."
Caution Needed. — Great care and caution, however, are
needed with respect to this and all similar institutions, and
their influence, good, useful, and elevating though they be, that
their votaries do not remain satisfied with nature as a shrine,
with taste and fine arts for a deity — as in France — which the
people worship instead of the living God. Nothing will truly
and permanently elevate any people but the pure and undefiled
religion of Jesus. While we boast of the Smithsonian Insti
tute, and many similar institutions, with their influences, rising
every where in our land, and all lending their aid to instruct,
to purify, and to elevate us as a great people, let, however, the
earnest prayer of each lover of his country be, that this, with
every other institution, down to the common school, may- be
thoroughly leavened, permeated and influenced by the gospel of
Jesus Christ. This will alone save us, and render our freedom
lasting, and our future history glorious.
Hurricane. — Day before yesterday, 24th, our dull mono
tony was suddenly changed by a visit from the grandest hurri
cane it has been my pleasure to witness. The wind blew as
though it were a last and magnificent effort. " The Lord rideth
11

122 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
upon the wings of the wind." Our frail structures of habita
tion were no match against the fury of its rage. Down and
scattered went tents, cabins, church-tent, and all. Yesterday
morning, the rage of the elements being somewhat abated, our
camp presented a scene so full of the ludicrous, that no one who
beheld, could refrain from a hearty laugh, no matter how much
his own personal inconvenience. So miscellaneously were
things scattered about, that a bevy of architects and mathema
ticians would hardly have assumed the task of unravelling and
putting all things again to right. Our greatest concern was in
reference to the new church-tent. We are happy, however, on
examination, to discover that but little real damage has been
done. By to-morrow, all will be repaired, and it joyfully re-
occupied. Rumors. — As I close, word is circulated in camp, said to be
by authority, that we are presently to move from here to some
unstated place. If so, it will be hailed with exceeding delight,
by botlvofficers and men. Over six long months have we been
eonfined here, in the dull routine of camp life and duties. Sick
and weary are all of us, and heartily long for some active ser
vice.

Camp Tennelly, March 5th, 1W2.
Went into a Proverb. — And it went into a proverb:
"Quiet as the army of the Potomac." In my last, you had in
timation that orders had been issued for our removal to more
active scenes than ave to be expected in the vicinity of this

TENNELLY, D. C. 128
miserable little, starved place — " Tennelly." Such orders did
come, and after this fashion : " Be ready to march on two hours'
notice." Posted in grammar and the meaning of language, Mr.
Reader, how would you have acted on this? Most likely, as all
in camp — get ready. At it we went, with a hearty good will.
What little traps could be taken were packed up. Many super
fluities which had been accumulated during last fall and win
ter, were thrown aside to be left behind, — then impatiently we
waited for the decisive order. Well, the two hours came and
went, but the order didn't come. All became restive and im
patient; we were being somewhat duped — the order was re
examined. Delphic certainly; yet consistent, whether we
marched or not. "Be ready to march at two hours' notice,"
yes — but the notice may come next fall.
After a few days' quandary and uncertainty, all was dispelled
by an order to be ready to move at 11 o'clock the same night.
Then what shouting, joy, bustle, and packing up! — still, we
marched not. Near the time set, new orders came: "Not at
the. hour named; but hold yourselves in readiness." Well, we
are, and are endeavoring to let patience have her perfect work.
We may be here ever so long yet.
It is not to be forgotten that such masterly inactivity has
been the ruin of many an individual, and may here also prove
the total ruin of these naughty secessionists. When this army
does get fairly and fully aroused from its lethargy and winter
torpor, and in motion, woe betide all opposers.
Sleeping Alligator. — Paying a visit some time since to
the Smithsonian Institute, an actual live alligator, about five
feet long, was pointed out to me by the obliging old janitor. A
little pond had been made for the reptile, in imitation of a Flo-

124
rida swamp, and enclosed with large plates of glass. The ugly
thing lay perfectly motionless, half covered with the water.
After shooiDg and rattling on the cage for some time, and no
appearance of life or motion, I pronounced the beast dead.
"Dead!" rejoins my old friend, the janitor; "not a bit of it."
"But how long has he been thus motionless?"
" 0, only about four months. But, mark you, some of these
days, he'll rouse himself, and gobble up that toad in a jifly."
And, sure enough, there sat Mr. Toady, perched upon a
projecting stick, and winking his little eyes with as much ap
parent unconcern, as though master alligator was actually dis
tant a thousand miles off, in a Louisiana swamp. A similar
gobbling may, ere long, await rebeldom.
Drumming out of Camp. — A few days since, we had a sad
exhibition of poor degraded humanity : a soldier paraded in
disgrace before the entire brigade. Military punishments, per
haps from necessity, are prompt, stern, and unfeeling. They,
moreover, seem little calculated to confer much benefit on, the
receiver. A hardened wretch, from one of the New York regiments
connected with our brigade, had become so frequent and open
a transgressor of military discipline, that the decision of a
court-martial was — Uncle Sam could henceforth dispense with
the fellow's services, his sentence running thus : " To be branded
on the hip with a certain letter, and then drummed out of camp."
Those who may have often heard about drumming out of camp,
yet not witnessed the ceremony, may desire to learn the order
of exercise. On the morning of this exhibition, the entire bri
gade, four thousand strong, was ordered on parade, and formed
into a large hollow square. The culprit was then brought

TENNELLY, D. C. 125
within, guarded by four files of soldiers, forming around him a
small hollow square, — the rear file with charged bayonets, lest
he might become restive or sullen on the march. The addition
of a drummer and fifer, completed the cavalcade. At one cor
ner, and close within the lines, the procession, at the word,
" Forward !" began to move. To a tune familiary known as
"The Rogue's March," the outlaw was paraded, at the point of
the bayonet, entirely round the great square, and immediately
in front of each soldier. Having completed the circuit within
the square, he was marched out, and dismissed from all military
service and honor; then permitted to go whithersoever he
listed. To a soldier of sensitive and honorable feelings, death would
have been far preferable to such degradation and shame. But,
on this degraded being, it appeared to have no other effect than
mere amusement. During most of the march, he carried his
hat in his hand, smirked and grinned in response to the mingled
feelings of pity, shame and laughter manifested towards him.
His conscience and feelings of shame seemed to be seared as
with a hot iron, even more effectually than the brand on his
hip. In appearance, lost to all self-respect, to manly feelings
or ambition; as much a devil as man can get in the flesh; be
yond the reach of hope or mercy; — "Joined to his idols; let
him alone," was perhaps the inward exclamation of a vast ma
jority who saw him. What a mercy to his old haunts, whither,
no doubt, he will return, still more fearfully to curse; what a
mercy to the army, to the country, and perhaps to himself, had
the court-martial, instead of the drumming out, ordered him
into the hollow square to be shot.

126 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
Hard Saying. — Some timid friends and unthinking per
sons seemed somewhat uneasy and shocked at my remarking,
while addressing a public meeting, during a late visit to
Pittsburg, "That we had men in our regiment, and perhaps
in every regiment in the service, as bad as the devil could
make them; and he was known to make a pretty bad one,
when obtaining a full swing. That the more of such who died
in camp or were killed in hattie, the greater the blessing to
their homes, their former haunts, as well as to the country, un
less we could reach them in the meantime with the gospel."
All the language of soberness and truth, as every thought
ful person knows. The standing armies of Europe prove a kind
of safety valve to society, by absorbing into them many of its
curses, who there either die or are killed in battle. All the
living, on the contrary, of our vast volunteer army, will no
doubt soon return home. Such characters as the above men
tioned rogue, having become vastly more hardened by the war,
and thus prepared still more dreadfully to curse their old or some
other community, — great blessings, in many respects, did they
never return.
Pittsburg " Daily Chronicle." — The Pittsburg Chronicle
need not conclude that, because in our regiment there has been
a number of courts- martial, it therefore speaks badly for the
old 13th. The truth is, it speaks well for it, showing a whole
some condition of discipline. It does, however, speak badly
for Pittsburg and its community, which, from its bosom, has
furnished us characters so mature in vice and hardened to
shame. Let tbe Chronicle leave its politics for a time, and
commence moral reformer, so that no more such desperadoes
will be found at. the time ofthe next volunteering.

127
Our church- tent was in due time repaired, re-pitched in
its original dignity, and gladly occupied for worship. Yet, for
a number of days and nights past, such a fierce and continued
rage ofthe elements has existed, that we have prudently taken
it down, and are waiting, in our little wind-shaken and storm-
tossed abodes, a return of civilized weather.

Camp Tennelly, D. C, March 10th, 1861.
Still, as you see, in the old location — Tennelly. This is,
however, in all probability my last letter from this spot, now
consecrated to us by the varying and ever multiplying scenes of
six months' continued camp life. As I write to-day all is quiet,
lonely, deserted, and disordered in our little town of a hundred
and fifty rude dwellings, so lately filled with all the activities of
a thousand men.
At 1 o'clock this morning orders came to be ready for march
by 9. TSie order was that for the present the tents and bag
gage be left behind, and the few invalids of the regiment as a
guard. My baggage was packed with the desire and expecta
tion of going with the first; but by request remain for the pre
sent to look after our church tent, books, and various other
miscellanies. My little son, having become something of a sol
dier, was sadly disappointed in not being allowed a march
through the rain to some expected battle-field. So, here sits
your correspondent in old Camp Tennelly, guarded by some
scores of rickety, wind-broken soldiers. The idea of what kind
of a defence we would make against a bold invasion of Secesh,
affords me some amusement.

128 camp, march and battle-field.
Tennelly Abandoned. — Up to the hour named for march
ing no counter orders came, at which time the regiment did ac
tually leave. At the time the line of march was formed the
rain was falling, not in gentle showers, but in torrents. The
boys nevertheless turned out and left their long occupied huts,
cabins and shanties with shouts of gladness and willing cheers.
A long march to-day in the rain, the mud, and with the load
each one has to carry, will fully test the fatigue powers of the sol
diers. All the soldier's dress, changes, household stuff, with his
accoutrements and artillery for battle, have to be carried on his
back, as no transportation is allowed the private. This to our
men to-day amounted to at least fifty pounds each. Gun, ba
yonet-scabbard and bayonet, cartouch-box, with a hundred
rounds weighing from six to ten pounds, knapsack, containing
change of under-garments with little needful traps, blanket
strapped on top of knapsack, haversack containing four days'
cooked rations, canteen, tin cup, over-coat — literally covered
all over with baggage. But jauntily, and many of them sing
ing, all set off. As the regiment marched up and over a rising
ground near the old camping place, it made a gram"! appear
ance and seemed fit for any service. " But where, and for
what are they gone ?" If known, not allowed to write it now.
Into Dixie, beyond doubt, and to fight if rebels are in the way.
We expect, in a day or two, to join the regiment with the bag
gage, and that before any battles are fought. Our stay behind
even for a little is a reluctant one. God bless and keep the
dear boys, if serious fighting is now to be their business.
Benefits of Detention. — Our detention here for the past
ten days, though undesired, yet, to myself and many others, is
now a matter of sincere thankfulness. A precious season of

tennelly, d. c. 129
religious meetings and influences has, in the mean time, been
enjoyed. Our belief is, God has thus been fitting and strength
ening many a heart for arduous duties in the future. About
a week since, our big tent, which had been struck and ready
for transportation, we resolved to repitch in its old location,
and re-open our books which were boxed; even though we
should enjoy their use here but a single day. In a prayer-
meeting, the same evening, it was resolved, that so long as we
were allowed to remain here, a meeting would be held each
successive evening. God has unexpectedly given us nearly a
week for these connected and continued exercises. From their
blessed influence, many, very many hearts have gone on the
weary march to-day more light, glad and brave. The interest
seemed to increase each successive evening; and, last (Sabbath)
evening, was the best and most refreshing of all. The large
tent was crowded so, that no more could enter, while some re
mained outside. One after another arose and expressed con
viction of sin, or revival and quickening of feeling after seasons
of coldness or declension. Many, it is believed, left the meet
ing deeply convicted of sin. On last Friday, evening we had
a large and most interesting Temperance meeting, where was
earnestly and freely discussed the most practical means of ba
nishing from our camp this awful curse to the soldier, and
great pest and disgrace to military life. An adjourned meet
ing was appointed, but where it may he held, deponent saith
not. Adieu to Tennelly. — While thus preparing, after so long
a stay, to leave this homely spot, it is done certainly with glad
ness and yet with not a few regrets. Notwithstanding the
turmoils of camp life, a good time has been enjoyed here.

SiAir/,.,

"^7in

130 camp, march and battle-field.
Precious seasons of preaching, prayer, and communion with
God and brethren. With all its faults and sins it has been a
Bethel. But here we have no continuing city. Better things
yet than these. Farewell, then, Tennelly — farewell all the
past. We are journeying. No matter what betides in the re
mainder of the pilgrimage, each successive stage brings us
nearer home. Such is life.

Camp Tennelly, March 19th, 1862.
Back in Tennelly. — At the time of penning my last from
Tennelly, our Regiment, with the entire Division, had crossed
over into Virginia; yet, without either tents or baggage. To
myself was assigned a subordinate duty of remaining in camp,
in order to look after various unarranged interests. These be
ing all fairly settled, by next day at noon, the Regiment was
followed and overtaken about six miles from the Chain Bridge,
bivouacked in a bleak, open field. There it remained without
tent or covering, from Monday night until Friday morning; a
chilling wind blowing much of the time.
It was a matter of much gratification, that although com
pelled to leave behind our church-tent, together with the ex
posed and unsettled condition of the men, yet were not our
religious exercises either interrupted, shortened, or lessened in
interest. A grove of pine trees was at convenient distance
from the location of the Regiment. This, by permission, we
constituted our Bethel. When night came on, a cheerful fire
of sticks and brushwood was kindled; around which, a goodly
company assembled and spent between one and two hours in
singing and prayer, intermingled with words of exhortation,

tennelly, d. c. 131
admonition and encouragement. Our condition, our place of
worship, the overhanging trees, the surrounding darkness, dis
pelled for a circle by our camp-fire, all combined in giving a
kind of unearthly charm, a peculiar interest and pleasure to
our meetings. These were held in the same place, on each of
the four evenings, during our detention there, and with in
creasing profit. After the adjournments of our meetings, my
little son and self scraped a few leaves together, spread on them
one of our blankets, the other over us and enjoyed comfortable
and refreshing sleep under the pine trees, singing as we re
tired, / " I will both lay me lay me down in peace.
And quiet sleep will take, '
Because Thou only me to dwell
In safety, Lord, dost make."
Up the Hill and Down Again. — The detention was ap
parently, caused by the tidings that the rebels had actually ran
away from • Manassas. This demanded a stationary movement
of four days and nights, for the powers that be to determine
what was now best^to be done under this new condition of
things. To chase the fleeing -secesh loo rapidly, would not be
dignified for so large an army as ours. So, on Friday morning,
we were ordered to complete the long ago accomplished and fa
mous exploit of a celebrated military character. At the be
ginning of the week, we marched up the hill, and, at the close,
marched down again — came back, and halted at the Potomac.
Tuesday, March 18th. — A full completion was put to our
late famous military achievement, on Sabbath afternoon, by
marching all the regiments of our brigade back to their old
Winter quarters, at Tennelly. Throughout Saturday, and Su-

132 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
turday night, there fell a heavy, cold, drenching rain. All
that terrible day and night our regiment stood in an exposed
position on the opposite hank of the river, with nothing tp
shelter, save the ordinary soldier's dress. Up in the day on
Sabbath, orders came to march back, and re-occupy the old
quarters. Late in the afternoon, wet, chilly, weary, hungry
and sleepy, the little shanty Winter tenements were re-entered,
now damp and cold from the long, beating rain- Yet how
wonderful the elasticity of American character. The mere
coming back to this place, which each one hoped had been left
for ever, was beyond measure distasteful. This, added to the
condition of coming, was sufficient to render almost any troops
morose and unruly. Notwithstanding all this, the men came
back cheerily, and again patiently await further orders.

On board the Steamer State of Maine, 1
Georgetown Harbor, Wednesday, March 26th. J
Gone Again. — Early on yesterday morning, orders again
came to pack up and leave Tennelly. As good soldiers we
were presently in motion; yet, from past experience, leaving
the dear old camp in as good condition as possible, under the
full expectation of re-occupancy within a few days.
During these vacillating movements were heard the first murmur-
ings of suspicion among the troops, M'ith respect to the Napoleonic
powers of Little Mac. The slightest welling up of any previous mur
mur had been quelled with assurance that, although Little Mac might
be slow to move, yet, when actually started, nothing could resist the

tennelly, d. c 133
masterly combination of his plans, combined with the rapidity and
irresistible power of his movements. The whole grand army had,
however, been lately in motion. The rebels had voluntarily aban
doned Manassas, which had remained so long an inapproachable mili
tary bugbear. We had been hurriedly gotten into marching condition,
eagerly started off, and actually pursued the retreating enemy sis miles,
although they had more than fifty of a start. We were suddenly halted,
and kept standing, unsheltered, for four days and nights amid pitiless
storms and drenching rains ; then, demurely, marched back for an ad
ditional week's meditation in Tennelly. The soldiers, although looked
upon as machines, reasoned, pondered, and looked grave. Privates,
Lieutenants, Captains, Colonels and Generals, queried one with another
in smothered under-tones ; is it possible, that during all this time Little .
Mac has had no plan? These stifled whisperings died ; and, for long
weeks after landing upon the Peninsula, were not again heard,
until after that masterly change of base, and consequent penning
up at Harrison's Landing for forty-seven sweltering July and August

On Board. — Within an hour's march we were on the wharf
in Georgetown, and, presently, marched on board the steam
boat " State of Maine." Our whole regiment, over a thousand,
with an additional company, together with horses, wagons, bag
gage, commissary stores, etc., etc., were finally packed away
on this old boat. General Peck and staff are also on board.
Such a bustle, such jamming, such apparent inextricable con
fusion, such a grand miscellaneous mixing up — why, I really
enjoyed it. Night came on, and it was announced we would
not leave before the morrow — not vessels enough to carry the
brigade. Towards nine, in the evening, the hum and turmoil
began to subside, and, after awhile, a general silence. Stand-
12

134 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
ing, leaning, sitting or lying, all found some place to sleep, or
at least to try to sleep.
As I write, we are still in Georgetown harbor, Wednesday
forenoon. Our destination has not been stated. We go cheer
fully where ordered, not knowing what shall betide us there.

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 135

CHAPTER IV.
tyjmiwnUv dtoropip.
FORTRESS MONROE. — BATTLE OE FAIR OAKS.
Fortress Monroe, Friday Noon, l
March 28th, 1862. /
At the expense of Uncle Sam, we have enjojed as delightful
an excursion trip as could well have been planned and executed
by the most- fancy voyageurs. The close of my last left us
safely packed on board the steamboat, State of Maine, in
Georgetown harbor, D. C, on Tuesday evening, March 25th.
Large bodies move slowly. All night we lay quietly. On
Wednesday forenoon, began to drift slowly down the river, and
evening found us only two or three miles below Alexandria,
where anchor was again cast for the night. The entire day,
clear and pleasant, was afforded for viewing every prominent
object of interest in Georgetown, Washington, and Alexan
dria; and this from the most convenient position, the hurri
cane-deck of our boat. The scene from Georgetown to Alexan
dria, on the river, was enlivening beyond comparison. A fleet,
of at least a hundred vessels, had been assembled, and these
of all shapes and sizes, from the immense steamboat down to the
sloop. These were either filled or filling with regiments, bri
gades, whole divisions of the great army; trains of artillery,
pontoons, baggage, forage, and ammunition. At the passing

136 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
of some general or other exciting event, ten thousand voices
would well up in shouts together, while numerous bands of
martial music made river, hills, and adjacent cities vocal. The
multitudes had come from their camps of long confinement, and
were wild with excitement.
Mount Vernon. — On Thursday morning the vast arma
ment began to move down the river. After long, dreary
months ofthe most disagreeable weather, the morning rose clear,
calm, and with magnificent beauty. Every heart seemed buoyed
up with joyous hilarity. We presently glided past Mount Ver
non, the nation's shrine ; and the dingy tomb of Washington
showed itself from among the overhanging trees. The place
has but few natural beauties. All the interest attached to it
is historic — the home and burial-place of Washington. Could
the Father of his Country have looked out from his tomb, on
the passing pageant — a host triple in number to any he ever
commanded — his exclamation would, no doubt, have been,
"What, and where are you going?"
Potomac River. — All day we sailed down the beautiful ever-
varying, and still-widening Potomac. The shores are, however,
low and altogether uninteresting. No signs of industry, prospe
rity, or internal greatness. In the whole distance from Alexan
dria to the Chesapeake, between one and two hundred miles, not a
single town or village on either the Virginia or Maryland shore;
not a single villa or beautiful mansion. What has done, or
rather what has not done all this? On a Northern river of
equal beauty, ease and facility for navigation, and of such long
historic, even classic fame, ten thousand splendid mansions and
villas, and numerous towns, would adorn either shore.

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 137
Evening Worship. — Neither the novelties of our condition,
the tumult of the voyage, nor the dense throng of the boat,
were permitted to interfere with or interrupt our accustomed
evening worship. When the shades of night drew on, a goodly
number got together, on the fore and upper deck of the boat,
and united in songs of praise, in prayer, and in words of exhor
tation and encouragement. The position, the scenery, and the
uncertainties of our journey, all combined to render our evening
worship peculiarly interesting and profitable.
Fortress Monroe. — Waking at dawn this morning, we
found our old New York and Fall river boat safely anchored,
directly in front of Fortress Monroe. Here we have remained
all the forenoon, waiting our turn to land at the contracted
wharf. For seven long hours the eye has not wearied with
looking upon this new and almost enchanting scene.
Fortress Monroe, previously to the war, had connected with it
much of historic interest, and is also intimately associated with
many important incidents of the present war. The fortifications
are situated on a low point of sandy. beach, at the junction of
the James river with the Chesapeake bay. By good engineer
ing, enormous expense, and labor long-continued, the fort has
been rendered one of the strongest in the world. If sufficiently
manned, and defended by a resolute enemy, our entire fleet," with
the hundred and fifty thousand men now here, might fail to
take it during the entire coming summer. It is almost the only
fortified place in all Dixie saved to the Union from the treachery
of this rebellion. Had it, by any mishap, fallen into the hands
of our enemies at the opening of the war, it would, in all pro
bability, have prolonged the strife for a whole year. Here
stretches, far away towards the ocean, the beautiful Chesapeake;
12*

138 CAMP, MARCH AN# BATTLE-FIELD.
there the bay-like mouth of the James; yonder the misty view
of Norfolk and Portsmouth; around us, an immense fleet, be
neath, on the left, the Rip Raps; at the right, the frowning
battlements of the fort, with the attachment of Old Point Com
fort; the troops busy landing, forming into long lines, and
marching away, away across the sandy beach, and out towards
the dark woods of the Peninsula. How magnificent is a great
war!

Camp Smith, seven miles from Fortress Monroe, j
and two from Newport News, April 3d, 1862. J
We are finally landed, and with seeming permanence, in
Dixie. At the close of my last letter, we were disembarking
at Old Point Comfort, or Fortress Monroe — they being adjoin
ing localities. The same evening, our regiment was marched
out about seven miles, and encamped here. A week has now
been passed in the same locality. All this while, troops have
been constantly landing and encamping in our front and rear,
both on our right hand and left. The whole region seems lite
rally filled with soldiery. One of the finest armies ever mar
shalled on the globe, now wakes up these long stagnant fields
and woods. Gen. M'Clellan is here, and commands in person.
All things seem to indicate a speedy forward movement and
active hostilities, should the rebels, who are but a few miles in
advance, await our coming.
Newport News. — Yesterday, I rode across to Newport
News, and had a look at the location and its military surround-

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 139
ings. It is merely a landing, on the north side of the James
river, which here appears more like a bay, being seven miles
wide. The position has been occupied by a few regiments of
Union troops, for nearly a year. Large barracks have been
erected and earthworks thrown up, causing the place to assume
the aspect of a small city; but, if deserted by our troops, would
soon become sadly desolate.
About fifty rods in front of the landing, the three masts of
the noble Cumberland shoot up about half their length out of
the water. About forty feet beneath the surface, her chaplain,
with a hundred of her crew, lie quietly buried. A short dis
tance below, on the strand, the charred remains of the Congress
are yet visible ; both being sad mementoes of the late terrible
naval conflict which took place here. These rebels display
wonderful skill, amazing energy, and fell determination, in
waging their unholy warfare. No mean adversaries are they.
Friends at home must not be uneasy nor faltering, should this
rebellion not be quelled in a day.
Religious Elements. — It affords me unwonted pleasure
to write concerning our religious influences. It seemed almost
a foregone conclusion with chaplains, and those who co-operate
with them, that when our Winter quarters should be finally
broken up, and the active operations of march and field exer
cises entered upon, the regular prayer-meetings held in camp
would also be broken up. And thus has it proved, so far as
my information extends, save in our regiment. More than a
month since, the goodly number of our brethren who co-operate
in our Christian Association, resolved, that, in the future of
our campaign, unless prevented by some military or other ne
cessity, we would hold some kind of a religious meeting every

140 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
evening. This was not difficult while in the enjoyment of our
tent. Yet, in all our changes and turmoils, thus far, we have
been enabled to keep our resolve, and with the most encouraging
success and apparent profit. To effect this, however, requires
no little courage, effort and perseverance. When the shades of
evening approach, some of the young men kindle a fire of
sticks — now, of pine knots — in the most convenient place in
camp. The first who assemble commence singing, when all
who desire soon assemble. Frequently, a large crowded circle
thus gather around our camp-fire. Last night was to me one of
the most interesting prayer-meetings it has ever been allowed
me to assist in conducting. Our exercises are voluntary; that
is, any one who chooses may engage in prayer, singing or re
marks. Last evening, after a few fervent prayers had been
offered, a young man spoke with deep emotion, saying: "Fel
low soldiers, all familiar with me know, that when commencing
this campaign, I was a very profane swearer, and otherwise
vile. God's Spirit has been at work with me. I can resist no
longer. To-night, I wish to place myself on the side of God's
people. Brethren, pray for me." As a brother led in prayer,
many eyes were bedewed with tears. Another and another
followed in the same strain. The tattoo beat, when all had to
answer roll-call, else would our meeting have been much pro
longed. On Wednesday evening, we held what in former parlance
would have been termed a rousing Temperance meeting. A
large assembly collected around the camp-fire, to whom several
earnest addresses were delivered, all urging the importance of
every consistent effort to banish from camp its most dreadful
bane — the use of strong drink.

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 141
On the March,. April 4th. — According to orders, our
entire Division took up the advance march early on Friday
morning, the 4th. All day long, the immense "cavalcade of
many miles in length — artillery, cavalry, infantry, baggage and
ammunition wagons, ambulances, sutlers — slowly wended its
way over the- flat, hilless country, across worn-out fields, over
sloughs, and through pine forests. Our course lay north, in
the direction of Yorktown. By evening, we had made some
ten or a dozen miles, when we lay down on the ground to sleep
in what had been once a tobacco-field, but now covered with
young pines of a dozen years' growth. This, however, was not
done until after our usual prayer-meeting had been held.
Early on Saturday morning, we were again on the march.
All the forenoon it rained heavily. Then, what roads ! The
soft, sandy, level soil, soon worked so deep with the endless
tramping, that the men were sometimes nearly knee-deep.
Early in the forenoon, we passed through a strongly fortified
position of the enemy, abandoned by them but the day, previ
ous. Whatever be the wants and hardships of the rebels, one
thing was evident to us; their Winter quarters here far sur
passed any thing we had in the vicinity of Washington. In an
old pine forest, stood long rows of neat log cabins, well roofed,
chunked and daubed, with the addition, also, of chimneys.
There seemed sufficient of these to Winter ten thousand troops.
Every thing bespoke recent comfort.
At Warwick, April 5th. — In the afternoon, our regi-'
ment, with the Division, was several, times formed in line of
battle, at right angles to our road, under the supposition that
the enemy were in force immediately in our front. Each time,
however, on advancing, they either had not been or had speedily

kk<,

142 camp, march and battle-field.
decamped. The long march was one of excessive weariness.
The day was warm, and the entire way was literally strewed
with blankets, over-coats, and various other articles which the
weary and over-laden soldiers refused longer to carry. In the
evening, our encampment was formed near Warwick Court
House. At dark, however, our entire regiment was ordered on
advanced picket-duty. We were marched several miles ahead,
and finally halted in a grand old pine forest. My little son and
self took lodging by sitting on the ground, and leaning the
back against a pine tree. During the night, a real Summer
thunder-storm came on. As the brilliant flashes of lightning
lighted up the forest, the long lines of our soldiers, mingled
with the tall trees, presented a strange, interesting and weird
like appearance.
Monday Morning, the 7th. — Yesterday, we were not or
dered on the advance. All day in sight of the enemy's pickets.
Occasionally throwing a shell. Had as much of the rest and
worship of the Sabbath as the condition allowed. What is be
fore us, to-day, we neither know nor are anxious.

C.urr Warwick, Virginia, \
Monday, April 19th, 18G2. |
* Since closing my last, on Monday morning, we have remained
in the same place, and much in the same condition, for just a
week. From the 7th to the 10th, it rained almost incessantly,
day and night. No tents. Officers, privates, horses, mules,
wore somewhat the appearance of drowned rats. No bread or

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 143
crackers for two days — mud, having no apparent bottom, wa
gons were unable to swim through. Men, notwithstanding, are
cheery, and but a moderate amount of grumbling. Compara
tively no sickness. One poor lad of our regiment, overcome
with wet and weariness, took a congestive chill, and presently
died. We dug a hole among some pine bushes, into which the
water ran as fast as the dirt was lifted out. His companions
rolled up the lifeless form in a blanket, laid it down among the
mud and water, threw in a few pine branches, then covered all
up with earth. A torrent of rain was falling at the time. Wet
and chilly, I tried to say a word appropriate to his messmates.
Gloomy funeral. War is a barbarous thing. In this campaign
ing, there is no bogus. The enemy's lines, batteries, and in
trenchments are a mile in front. We wahVan order to advance,
yet knew not when it may come.
Historic Region. — We are now on American classic ground.
A few miles above us, on the river, is, or rather was, James
town — no town, no house at present. Here, in 1607, was made
the first permanent English settlement in North America.
Jamestown, Captain John Smith, Pocahontas, First Families of
Virginia, illustrious names, proud history, — yet, alas! what
dimness has come upon all !
Yorktown, or where Yorktown was, is nine miles north of
our position. Here the grasp of Britain, on her North Ameri
can colonies, was finally unloosed. Here the haughty Corn
wallis, with his proud, veteran, and long victorious army, after
a brief siege and some severe fighting, surrendered to the com
bined land and naval forces of the United Colonies and France.
After a sleep of nearly a century, Yorktown is once more waked
up by the din of battle, is strongly fortified by the rebels, and

144 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
confronted by our Union army, under McClellan. The place
may thus again -become famous for a decisive battle. Shades
of our Revolutionary sires ! things have grown and changed
since you struggled and fought here. The combined armies of
Washington, the French, and Cornwallis would hardly be no
ticed as an increase, or felt as a defection, from the mighty host
now marshalled on this old battle-ground.
The Isthmus we occupy, and fronting the rebel army, is
about nine miles broad. The peninsula, which widens and ex
tends down to Fortress Monroe, over twenty miles, is almost
entirely level, yet generally elevated sufficiently above flood and
tide water for convenient farming. That portion, and hy far
the largest, still uninvaded by the axe, is covered with a fine
growth of different kinds of trees. Growing near together, I
numbered the white, red, and jack oak, various species of
hickory, white and black walnut, ash, gum, sassafras, dogwood,
with the showy evergreen holly; but the predominating timber
is the beautiful turpentine pine. The underbrush, in places,
seems impervious to man or beast. Briers, roses, thorns, plums,
crab-apple, a low evergreen willow, with enormous wild vines,
six inches in diameter. The soil is a warm, rich alluvian, tend
ing to sandy. Here seems to be the natural home for the
maize and sweet potatoe; the peach, plum, and pear; the black
berry, strawberry, with nearly every variety of vegetable. In
old fields, long abandoned, the peach, plum, and pear still per
sist to grow, and are now in full bloom. The apple trees have
waned and died, the soil not seeming to be congenial.
Long years since, extensive farms appear to have been culti
vated on the peninsula; now very few, and poorly at that. We
are encamped in a pine grove, the trees averaging a hundred

peninsular campaign. 145
feet in height, and a foot and a half in diameter, three feet
from the ground. On careful examination, it proves to be an
old corn or tobacco field; yet, by counting the annual rings of
the trees, they have been fifty years growing.
War's Desolation. — The course over which we have come
thus far, is left entirely desolate. The retiring rebels, com
mencing with the quaint old town of Hampden, three miles
from Fortress Monroe, have burned nearly every old farm-house
on the way. Our soldiers burn up all the remaining fences for
camp-fires. What stray cattle, sheep, hogs, and fowls remain,
are shot, roasted, and devoured in a trice by our soldiers.
What has become of the poor homeless families, I am, as yet,
at a loss to know. Great and sore judgments are on the guilty
land. The Lord seems to be sending a thorough revolution,
turning things all upside down. Should Yankee enterprise
turn its skill and energy hitherward, after the war, this may
eventually become the garden of the country. Lying on one of
the most extensive and beautiful bays on the globe, with nume
rous tributary rivers, the mouths of which, for miles up, are
themselves bays, a thousand points thus invite convenient na
vigation, for every kind of vessels, all the year round.
Old Tombstones. — During a late ramble from our camp, I
discovered, in a clump of trees, and overgrown with under
brush, a bluish marble tombstone, in a good state of preserva
tion. On one side was engraved a fleet of sail vessels. On the
other, a cross, surmounted by a crown, underneath which was
quite a long memorial, the beginning and ending of which ran
thus: — "Here lies the body of Sir William Cole, Master ofthe
Rolls to King Charles, of the county of Warwick, who departed
13

146 CAMP, MARCH, AND BATTLE-FIELD.
this life ye 4th of March, 169f , in the 56th year of his age. *
* * * * Of him may this be loudly sounded — ' He was
unspotted on ye Bench, unstained at ye Bar.'"
Alas ! for human fame and greatness. Such will be the fate
of us all — soon pass away and be forgotten ! No friend even
remain behind to remove the rubbish from our tombstone,,
should one be erected over where our dust reposes. Sir Wm,
Cole may thank a stranger for -giving his memory this transi
tory lift out of oblivion !

Camp Warwick, Virginia, l
April 21st, 1862. /
Sixteen days have now been spent in this place, which, as an
advanced guard, we first occupied on Saturday night, April 5th.
Our grand army has again come to a halt. Whether this posi
tion is to be occupied as long as Tennelly (six months,) the
progress of events must determine. The same report, at least,
will not go back week after week, "All quiet along the army of
the Potomac." We have the frequent amusement, for excite
ment, played day by day, of rebel cannon-balls, coming into our
camp, splintering up the pine trees, tearing up the ground, or
knocking off a soldier's head; of bombshells, burying them
selves in the earth, or bursting in mid-air, and scattering things
about in a very promiscuous manner. Of course, during these
interludes, our own batteries are neither inactive nor silent.
These, however, seem but episodes of war, preludes to battle.
All things indicate a somewhat protracted and bloody struggle
on this famous old battle-ground. As to the final result, there
is among our troops no diversity of opinion. All feel confident

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 147
of victory, that we must and will conquer. Yet what a day
may bring forth, none assume to predict.
In the mean time, we are putting forth all the efforts after
physical comfort and mental enjoyment our condition allows.
It must be confessed, thus far here these have not been very
abundant. The soldier's grub has been too frequently irregu
lar and scanty. We seem almost cut off from connection with
civilized life. Any stray newspaper which may chance to find its
way into our camp, is read and re-read until worn out. None of
the papers for which I write have reached me, or any one of our
regiment, for four weeks, nor do I know even that my letters
reach them. A fault exists somewhere.
Ticks. — "Sticks as tight as a tick." Homely, but apt. Under
the dry pine leaves, where we encamp, a great secesh army of
wood-ticks have wintered. The late warm weather has waked
them into activity, and, after their long fast, hungry as hyenas.
Few so happy as not to find each morning half a dozen of these
villanous blood-suckers sticking in his flesh. You seize one
with the fingers, and pull it, but it don't come. You seize it
again, with double tightness, and jerk, with a vigor almost suf
ficient to tear out the flesh. There is a severance, yet the pro
babilities are, the fangs of the blood-thirsty rascal have been
left buried under the skin. Health prescribers are wont to assert
that frequent rubbing and irritatiouof the skin, is a necessity to
good health in a warm climate. Not the slightest fear, there
fore, of us in this respect. The laziest dog in camp may fre
quently be seen scratching himself, with a vigor and gusto, and
in continuance apparently sufficient, instead of irritating the
skin, to take it off altogether.

148 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
Tobacco. — "A kingdom for a horse !" exclaimed a celebrated
warrior, in the midst of a great battle. A world for a " chew"
or a " smoke " of tobacco, shout out hundreds who are nervously
uneasy or irritably longing for the stimulus of the vile, dirty,
disgusting weed. The filthiest of all living animals is man.
No brute, so called, has ever yet become so debased as to chew
or smoke tobacco. Three-fourths, perhaps, of our regiment
either chew or smoke — many do both, and this is a sample of
all other regiments in the service. Serious restrictions have of
late been laid upon the sutlers' business by Congress and the
Secretary of War, which, in these dignitaries, manifests some
wisdom. As a result, but few of the numerous and enticing
notions of the sutler, useful and hurtful to the soldier, have
found their way here. Tobacco, fortunately, forms no part of
the soldier's rations. Whiskey, under certain conditions, un
fortunately, continues to be rationed out. Under these cir
cumstances, more than ten days since, the stock of the weed on
hand became small and beautifully less, till finally all the trea
sury notes of Uncle Sam sufficed not to buy a single plug.
Then what an outcry; what peevishness, what complaints and
irritability ! They were certainly the worse-used soldiers in the
universe. Uncle Sam was a humbug; the sutlers were all a set of
rascals and swindlers ; not a cent more of tjieir money should they
ever get, and what was already due, they should never pocket.
Ip this almost mutinous condition of affairs, our sutler, after
uearly a month's absence, came up. The supply of luxuries
brought along, consisted principally in a limited supply of chew
ing and smoking tobacco. This was distributed as equitably as
possible through the regiment. Then what filth and nastiness;
what chewing, spitting, squirting, and whiffing! The nerves
were all speedily quieted, the irritability soon gone, and a more

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 149
contented set of men it was not easy to find. What strange
freaks this fallen humanity of ours does exhibit! yet, among
the multiplied evidences of its debasement, none more glaring
than the enormous use, even by those calling themselves gen
tlemen, of this, the blackest, the filthiest, the most sickening
and poisonous weed that grows out of the earth. Every re
newed exhibition of its effects, convinces me that to call its use
a habit, is a misnomer. It is a downright disease. Ere the dis
gusting weed can be used with desire or satisfaction, the whole
physique must undergo an entire change — become diseased. For
getting drunk, many plausible excuses may be urged ; but, for
this disgusting business, none.
Entomology. — It has been my wont to assume some credit
for a knowledge of entomology — the science of insect life. For
some nights past, however, the mosquitoes have set sadly at de
fiance my boasted knowledge, and established theories concern
ing themselves. The established theory has been, that all the
old mosquitoes die on the approach of cold weather, having
first laid their eggs in swamps and on stagnant pools of water,
which then fall to the bottom, lie there until the warmth of
next summer hatches them, live in the water until full-grown
wigglers, swim to the surface, burst the skin, when out flies a
full-fledged mosquito, thirsting for blood. The past few nights
being quite warm, though so early in the season, my extempo
rized shanty has been visited by picket-guards and squads of
full-grown mosquitoes, and so hungry as fairly to squeel when
they sink their bills into me. These are, no doubt, merely a
prelude to what may be expected, in the coming hot weather,
from the various ponds, sloughs, and marshy woods in our vici
nity. How these fragile blood-suckers contrived to live through
13*

. -\y:

150 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
the winter, is a mystery. The heat and excitement of the re
bellion, must have kept them alive. They have, also, beyond
question, joined the rebels, and possess all their venom. De
termined do they seem to shed the blood of us Northern in
vaders. Our Picket.-— But few companies of our regiment are at
present in one locality. Three or four companies scattered on
picket for a distance of two miles along the Warwick river —
quite an insignificant stream, though widening, near its entrance
into the James river, into a beautiful little bay, of half a mile
in width. Across this little bay, and within long rifle range,
are various forts, earth-works, rifle-pits, and barracks of the
enemy. We are thus on the extreme left of McClellan's army,
and fronting that ofthe rebels' extreme right. Our post is one
of much importance, considerable danger, exposure, and de
manding sleepless vigilance day and night. Our companies
not on picket alternate each other day and night in throwing
up intrenchments, digging rifle-pits, building batteries, etc., thus
affording at present but little opportunity for any united re
ligious service. I make frequent tours round all our -pickets
and stations, and find the boys in general good health and spi
rits, and all anxious to push this war through speedily, and get
home, or fall in the effort.

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 151

Camp Warwick, Va., April 28th, 1862.
A year ago, to-day, I entered upon Chaplain service, at.
York, Pennsylvania.
What has been accomplished during the year in the work ?
Unable to tell ! No data sufficient on which to base an accu
rate calculation ! The judgment bar will determine ! Far less
done, surely, than might and ought to have been done ! Not a
few of those to whom I have ministered are gone into the eter
nal world ! Some in hospitals, some by accidents in camp, and,
others, on the battle-field ! Based on human evidence, some
fruit is apparent. Not a few have expressed the hope that a
change of heart has taken place. A goodly number are appa
rently strengthening in the Christian life. A yet larger num
ber, it must be sadly confessed, are hardening in sin. As ever,
the gospel continues to be the savor of life unto life to those
that are saved, as well as a savor of death unto death to those
that are lost. During the past four months, God has given to
me more seals of my ministry than during any similar period
since it has been exercised.
Attainments of the Year. — What an eventful period!
How numerous the changes, the incidents the reverses, the
achievements, the advances ! How many the hopes, " the fears,
the joys, the sorrows !" In this age of rail-road and telegraph
velocity, matters, in the eyes of the impatient or inconsiderate,
have seemed occasionally to halt, or move slowly. Yet, surely,
never in the world's history, by a single nation, has such pro
gress beeli made, so many great things accomplished, in a sin
gle year.

152 But little more than a twelvemonth since, our great Northern
community was in the enjoyment of ancient Laish security.
Her people quietly farming, manufacturing, trading, building
and travelling, without a thought or desire of war. Those who
uttered the language of fear or danger, were looked upon as
mere alarmists. Suddenly, and in a wholly unprepared condi
tion by the nation, the greatest, the best planned, and most for
midable rebellion in the world's history was, inaugurated. The
North, worsted for a time, as might reasonably have been ex
pected, soon raised herself as a giant waked from wine.
An army of six hundred thousand men, the largest now in
the world, the best appointed and thoroughly drilled, has been
improvised. A vast navy has been erected. Enormous sup
plies of commissary stores have been collected. Strong fortifi
cations have been dismantled and taken ; forts, hitherto sup
posed impregnable, battered to pieces and captured. Numerous
great battles fought and victories won. Territory abroad re
claimed from the rebellion, larger than England, Scotland,
Ireland, France and Italy. Six hundred millions of dollars
expended, and the nation's credit unimpaired. Respect and
fear have been forced from haughty and envious empires. And
all this in a single year ! What, therefore, may not be reason
ably expected, what not accomplished, during the coming one ?
Not- only will the last efforts of the rebellion be surely crushed
out; but England, France and Spain, may be compelled to
withdraw their troops from Mexico; and Monitors, perchance,
be thundering at the gates of London, Cadiz, Toulon and Bou
logne. Singing in Camp. — Our regiment is again fairly together
from extended picket duties. Our meetings for religious ser-

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 153
vice, each evening, have been resumed with-much apparent
interest and profit. Could some of the squeaking, squealing,
mouthing choirs, or droning congregational singers of our
churches be present with us for an evening, they would at least
discover, that some things can be done differently. The other
evening, one of our companies was distant between one and two
miles, on picket duty. The next day, the captain, with several
others of the company, assured me that our singing was dis
tinctly heard by them, and even the tune named.
Things in Camp. — Military matters remain without seem
ing material change since my last. We still occupy the same
position; in full view of the enemy. But little fighting, com
paratively, has, however, been done, notwithstanding so close
proximity to the rebels, for twenty-four days. Do not, on this
account suppose, dear reader, that our soldiers are either idle
or have an easy time. Herculean labors have been performed,
enormous fatigue endured. Roads have been constructed,
which would astonish all the masters of highways in old Penn
sylvania. Forts have been constructed, batteries built, breast
works thrown up, trenches dug, and rifle-pits sunk — digging
and shovelling sufficient to prepare for spring planting, all the
gardens in the Union. All things appear to indicate a near
readiness for a cannonading, great as that of Sebastopol. The
powers that be seem wisely determined to have every thing in
readiness before striking. The work will thus be sooner and
more surely finished. The troops in South Carolina, having in
charge the capture of Fort Pulaski, took just three months for
preparation, without firing a gun. All things ready, that.
stronghold, hitherto considered impregnable, was battered to
pieces in thirty hours.

154 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
Williamsburg, Va., May 6th, 1862.
After a whole year's preparation — equipping, drilling, and
marching — our regiment has at length seen a battle. The boys
had got their minds filled with the poetry of war, and to have
gone home without its reality, would have been a life-long dis
appointment. It came, in the end, somewhat unexpectedly.
On Sabbath, at Warwick, after concluding a far more than or
dinary public service, orders came that we must move at once — :
the enemy were abandoning their works in our front. What a
change from the hitherto quiet and peaceable Sabbath ! All
was instantly bustle and activity. In a few minutes, all was
packed and in readiness. The extras which had^been accumu
lating for five weeks, were thrown away. What the soldier
could carry was on his back — the officers mounted — the regi
ment in line, and the word " March !" sounded. Cheerfully was
the result of five weeks' toil and sweet — the roads, the bridges,
the forts, the ditches, the embankments, — all abandoned, with
out having specially tested their use in the strife of blood, as
intended. Our march led us presently to cross the Little Warwick
river at Leesburg, the place where the brave Vermonters were
so needlessly slaughtered, a short time since. As we crossed
the stream, ascended the opposite bank, and passed over and
through the immense earth-works, erected with such skill, pains,
and unstinted toil by the rebels, the marvel of all was, why they
did not stay and defend them, provided they intended farther
resistance. Shortly after passing these abandoned strongholds,
night came on, when we lay down, tentless, on an open field, to
sleep: About midnight, it commenced raining heavily, and, as
a result, pools of water were presently in each man's bed.

peninsular campaign. 155
Early on Monday morning, we were again in motion, — and
such a march, pen and tongue would fail a fit description. One
curious phenomenon of the raining operation here, seems to be,
that when it begins, it fails to quit. All day, till midnight on
Monday, it poured incessantly. As the apparently endless files
of men and horses took the road leading to Williamsburg, the
wet and spongy soil, yielding to the incessant tread, soon be
came a mud jelly for a foot in depth. Slowly and painfully toiled
along the living mass — the soldiers almost up to their knees in
mud at every step. All the morning, cannonading was heard
in front, and about noon we arrived in front of Williamsburg.
A strong line of earth-works was then between us and the town,
from which the enemy was briskly cannonading, seeming de
termined to make a vigorous stand. Our regiment, without »
moment's rest, — weary, hungry, drenched with rain and covered
with mud, — was advanced and posted in a thick wood, in front
of a strong defence of the enemy. The leaves being quite large
on the bushes, it was difficult to see any object distinctly more
than a few rods.
Battle of Williamsburg.— At this time all was compa-
tively quiet, the firing in front and on the wings having nearly
ceased. The rain still pouring down, I took my little son and
faithful man, Isaac, some rods in the rear, and succeeded in
kindling a fire, with the hope of having a cup of coffee and get
ting somewhat dried. Suddenly, a crash came, like the rage of
a heavy thunder-cloud. Two regiments of rebel infantry, some
companies of cavalry, with four pieces of artillery, had succeeded
in getting close in our front, without being seen. At their first
fire a shell tore through the woods, lighting close beside our
fire, and exploded, scattering the fragments over and around us.

156 camp, march and battle-field.
Rifle and musket balls made strange music, as they sung and
whistled by us through each opening in the woods. My little
son, of ten yearSj was sitting drying his feet. With a peculiar
expression, a paleness about the mouth and quivering of the
lips, he looked at me without speaking. Recovering himself,
he at once got ready his little seven-shooter pistol, with which
he had been practising, and insisted on going to the front and
having a crack at those rascally secesh, as he expressed it, who
were kicking up such a fuss. Concluding, however, that for
him discretion was the better part of valor, I sent him, with my
colored man, Isaac, and horse, some distance to the rear, and
went forward to render what assistance might be possible.
What a demoniac business is war! From childhood, my
mind had been filled with the poetry and romance of the battle
field. Here was the awful reality, and quite a different affair.
My first feeling was of exultation, that the old 13th, to which
I had been acting as chaplain for more than a year, neither re
treated nor quailed under such a sudden and terrific fire from
such superior numbers — they having four pieces of artillery, we
none. For over an hour, the regiment maintained its position
alone, and stood the brunt and shock like veterans. They were
at length supported and nobly sustained by the 93d and 98th
Pennsylvania volunteers. Work enough was too soon offered
to myself. There lay one, to whom I had often preached, still
in death; yonder, another with a broken leg, an arm, or a ball
through some part of his body. On the left, one sinks down,
pale and nerveless ; on the right, another suddenly drops his
gun, and walks back with faltering steps. From 2 p. M. till
sun-down, this terrible crashing and rage of battle was continued,
with but occasional brief intervals, and this seemingly but to re
new the struggle with new fury. At this time the enemy's fire

peninsular campaign. 157
ceased, and was not renewed: Our regiment was then relieved
by one from Rhode Island, and retired some hundred rods into
an open field, where the men had left their knapsacks and blan
kets. Here, with orders to build no bright fires, our men —
muddy, weary, wet, and blackened with powder and the smoke
of battle — threw themselves on the ground, flooded with water,
and it still raining, to sleep.
Had I, near the close of the struggle, been asked, "How
many of your regiment have been killed and wounded ?" my
answer would have been, " Hundreds !" Yet, when the roll was
called, and the number accurately ascertained, but three were
killed and forty wounded. This appears to me perfectly mar
vellous. God surely presides over the battle's rage, and directs
missiles of death. This, during the rage of the battle, I grate
fully realized once and again. At one time, when passing back
to the regiment, after seeing some of the wounded to the rear,
a shell fell in the mud beside me and exploded, scattering its
fragments over, around, and far beyond me; and yet I was safe
and unharmed.
Day After the Battle. — This morning the sun again
shone out brightly, and cheering it was again to see its light.
With appropriate service, we buried our dead together in a wide
grave. -Afterwards, I took a walk over the scene of yesterday's
strife. The ground occupied by the rebels presented terrible
evidence of the precision with which our regiment fired. Thick
and numerous lay their dead, not unfrequently, one across an
other. I have heard it said that soldiers usually die on the
battle-field with the face downward, but in almost every in
stance each of these poor fellows lay on his back, with his
ghastly countenance turned upward. Sad retribution this, poor
14

158 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
rebels, for your wickedness and folly! One of the saddest
sights to me, was scores of horses, torn and mutilated, stretched
over the gory, muddy field; and, not unfrequently, horse and
rider lying cold in death together. Truly, the whole creation
travaileth and groaneth in pain together to be delivered.
No time to write more to-day. Many, very many strange,
new, and saddening things press for a place. Some of these
may be given in future letters. The rebels have all fled from
this vicinity. Our brigade, which was all engaged in yester
day's strife, and expended the principal part of its ammunition,
rests on the battle-field until a supply comes up, and the men
get brushed up and thoroughly refitted. Thousands on thou
sands of our army are now marching past us, on the road to
Richmond.

20 Miles West of Williamsburgh, Va. 1
May 13th, 1802. /
Our regiment, in connection with its Division, remained on
and near the battle-field, at Williamsburgh, from Monday night
the 5th, until Friday morning the 9th. This tarrying seemed
necessary, in order to bury the dead, care for the wounded,
brush and clean up, and obtain a fresh supply of ammunition.
Friday morning was unspeakably beautiful. The sun arose
clear and warm. The trees here are nearly in full foliage.
Flowers of various kinds richly bloomed and scented the air
with their fragrance. The birds sang as though no invaders
were present to disturb their joyousness. How great the change
from the rage of elements and storm of battle on Monday.

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 159
Williamsburgh. — As the various regiments and brigades
of our Division, broke up their encampments, turned their
backs on the bloody field of Monday, and filed into the open
way leading to Richmond, in connection with their allotted
cavalry and artillery, never before did they present so martial
an appearance. Each soldier seemed to feel new confidence in
himself and his cause, as manifested by his proud jaunty step,
and soldierly bearing. Surely never before did this quaint, old,
worn out city of Williamsburgh, present so grand a pageant as
when these proud, embattled, victorious legions paraded through
her broad, finely shaded streets. This ancient metropolis of the
colony of Virginia may, no doubt, be taken as a fair sample of
the faded and fading condition, both of town and country,
throughout this Old Dominion. Jamestown, where the first
English settlement was made, lies three or four miles south of
this, on the James river. The centre of the colony was, how
ever, soon removed to Williamsburgh. There is something-
staid, dignified and pleasing, about its appearance. The inha
bitants do not, perhaps, number over fifteen hundred. Here
and there, along the streets, stands a fine old mansion — no new
ones — indicating wealth, refinement and luxury. The larger
portion, however, of the houses seemed sadly on the decline.
William and Mary College, incorporated nearly two centuries
since, is located here. Until the rebellion broke out, it was
still continued with considerable success. Many a hopeful scion
of the F. F. V.'s received his literary training here. The
buildings are unimposing; not excelling those of what would
usually be termed one-horse colleges at the North. When
visiting the buildings, I found each hall, every room and corri
dor, filled with wounded and dead soldiers, principally rebels.
The court house, the churches, and many private houses, were

160
also crowded with Union and rebel soldiers mutilated in almost
every possible manner. So far as I have yet seen estimates of
the wounded, they all certainly fall far short of the sad reality.
Insane Asylum. — The only really fine building in the
place, and the only public one unoccupied by the wounded, is
the State Insane Asylum, at present containing about three
hundred inmates. All Virginia should have been shut up in
such institutions more than a year since. Through the mili
tary officer having charge of it since the place was captured,
I obtained ready admittance. In the beautiful enclosure quite
a company of the more veteran and docile inmates were pa
rading with one .of the superintendents. I made them a little
speech, and preached to them a short sermon, for which not
only thanks but applause was tendered. In hearing of the in
mates, I inquired of the Virginia official, whether room could
be furnished for additional boarders. " Quite a number more,"
was the satisfactory answer. "A hundred?" "Yes, with
some crowding. But why ? Are there any whom it is desired
to send?" "Yes, about a hundred." "A hundred! What,
from the Union army?" "No; we are about to catch Jeff.
Davis, Beauregard, and such ilk, and may conclude that the
best disposition which can be made will be, to put upon them
straight-jackets, and confine them here." The dignitary seemed
to relish but little the suggestion. Not so, however, the in
mates, who clapped and shouted; declaring, that would be the
very thing.
On the March. — On Friday and Saturday, our column
made about twenty miles on the way to Richmond; having
about forty miles between us and that famous old city. Ten

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 161
miles a day, in our manner of travelling, may occasion much
toil and fatigue to the soldier; having, perhaps, to start early
and halt late. The head of the column may leave camp at 7,
A. M., and the rear not till noon. For long, long miles the
grand cavalcade moves on like the windings of some great ana
conda. Every available part ofthe road is occupied, often also
the adjacent fields and woods. The breaking of a mule's trace
may occasion the stoppage of a column for miles back. We are
also moving into Dixie, without a distinct knowledge of the
numbers, the whereabouts, or the intentions of the enemy; with
some ignorance also of the particular localities ahead — all move
ments, in consequence, must be so regulated as best to guard
against surprise.
Moral Influences.- — In Saturday night's encampment we
have remained till now — Monday night. Slow and sure, is our
General's seeming motto. It was difficult yesterday to have
public worship. The large number of regiments brought close
together in camp, the consequent noise and bustle, the hauling
and distribution of provisions, the coming and going of guards
and outposts, the martial music, together with various other
camp noises, all combine to embarrass public service and drown
the speaker's voice. Few made the attempt. In the evening,
however, we had a large, interesting, and most refreshing
meeting. Indeed all our meetings since the battle have been
more than ordinarily full of interest. The hearts of God's
children have been evidently drawn nearer Himself on account
of the protection granted in the hour of imminent danger. Not
a few intelligent Christian members have related in our meet
ings their religious feelings and impressions in the hour of im'-

162
pending death, thereby adding much interest and profit to our
evening meetings.
More marked than ever before, since the conflict a week ago,
has been the tendency of the Gospel already noticed in previous
letters. The manifestation of the goodness and mercy of God
necessarily either softens the heart or still more hardens.
Many who had hair-breadth escapes from missiles of death,
seeing now that they are safe, feel it incumbent upon them to
swear all the more profanely, and stiffen their necks more boldly
against God. Thus proving most conclusively, that no danger,
however imminent, no deliverance, however marked — no, not
even though one should rise from the dead, will the hardened
sinner repent and believe. Equally evident also has it been
that those who had in them any evidence of the love of God,
have had that love quickened and strengthened. Sermons can
be preached from the tumults of the battle-field, as well as from
the quiet persuasiveness of the sacred desk.
Our social meeting to-night, (Monday,) was still larger than
usual ; full of interest and manifest profit. Orders are issued
to march at 7 in the morning. On through the world — on
through life we go without knowing what is before us. And
who would wish to have the veil lifted and all the incidents of
to-morrow revealed to him? "Sufficient unto the day is the
evil thereof."

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 163

Chiokahomint River, 1
15 miles from Richmond, Monday, May 19th, 1862. J
In that quiet editorial sanctum, you can form but little con
ception of the enormous physical labor and fatigue endured by
our army, since its arrival at Fortress Monroe, two months
since, and still undergoing, as we advance toward Richmond, in
the face of a cunning, treacherous and still powerful enemy.
This is naturally a most interesting, beautiful and fertile section
of country, — yet sadly worn-out and depopulated by the blight
of slavery and the pride of its people; a region, also, affording
peculiar facilities for its possessors to defend themselves against
invasion. The roads are crooked, narrow, and in bad repair.
When it rains, as it often has, and in torrents, since we came,
the spongy soil works to a fearful depth of thin mud, by the
tread of the invading host. And what helps the matter, the
retreating army has just preceded us. During the whole course
they have quite unintentionally designated to us the most dan-'
gerous portions of the road. In every deep mire some of their
wagons or baggage implements are left, hopelessly sunk in the
mud — not the large, strong, new wagons belonging to our Union
army, but quaint and varied old country wagons, which have
evidently been pressed into the service. In each instance the
propensity of these rebel secesh for destruction is manifest, for
wherever one of their vehicles stuck hoplessly in the mud, they
have built a fire in the bed, and left the wood-work charred and
useless. As our boys wade past them, they always take a hearty
laugh at the impotent malice of these madmen.
Night March. — Last Friday evening, at dusk, our regi
ment, with its brigade, was ordered to march about five miles,

164 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
and occupy a certain position, where the rebels either were or
had been during the day. Out way led through fields and into
woods, across mud-holes, frog-ponds and sloughs. It was pre
sently so dark, that one could scarcely see his fellow. What
feeling, wading, floundering, and splashing. On we went. Se
veral artillery wagons were soon left far behind, almost buried
in the sacred soil of Dixie. Arriving at the place about 11 p. m.,
and as no enemy could be found, all were glad to take a soft,
inviting bed, as offered in a wet, sandy field. Yet, when the
sun rose upon us next morning, all were ready for a march, as
seeming fresh as ever, without a reported invalid or complaint
heard. Men can become accustomed to almost any thing.
Living on the March. — Several friends have lately in
quired of me by letter, " How do you live in your present con
dition?" The meaning is understood to be, "How do you eat,
or, rather, get any thing to eat?" Just as we can, dear friends;
as to myself, quite comfortably. A wagon is allowed to a regi
mental staff to carry indispensables. A soldier may wade
through and get past places, with his fifty pounds of baggage
on his back, where a wagon and six mules may stick fast. As
a result, the regiment often halts at night, and lies down on the
wet ground to rest, while the wagons may be miles behind, per
chance sticking fast in some mud-hole. Night passes, and they
are not up; the next day may pass without their arrival. To
avoid such uncertainties and disappointments, I carry along,
either on the saddle or person, every thing necessary both for
sleeping and eating for a march of four or five days. Two
woollen blankets, with two pliable, drab oil-cloths. At night,
one oil-cloth, spread on the ground, and woollen blanket there.
on, make the bed for jnyself and little son: the remaining

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 165
blanket suffices for a covering, and, if raining, the other oil
cloth over all. The food and cooking utensils ? A small sack
of ground coffee, with another of sugar, a few pounds of salt
pork or bacon, with two tin plates, in the saddle-bags. A
canteen, with tin-cup, strung on one shoulder, and haversack,
full of crackers, on the other; a small frying-pan, strapped be
hind the saddle; a knife, fork, and spoon, curiously united, in
the pocket, with a little tin pail, answering for a coffee-pot,
which my colored man, Isaac, carries in his hand : — all com
plete. After halting, a fire is kindled; water and coffee put
into the pail, and soon heated ; — the repast is ready. Tin
cup of the black-looking coffee, a little sugar, three or four
crackers, broken in, spoon in hand, and squatted on the
ground. Should the appetite crave, a few slices of salt meat
are fried in the pan. As to the laundry, it is jocosely asserted
that linen, or even paper collars, are now against the army
regulations. My surplus wardrobe is a change of flannel.
When this is needed, my man, Isaac, takes the soiled pieces,
with soap, to some spring or brook, gives them a shaking, a
rinse or two, and dries them. t
Sabbath Rest. — Yesterday (Sabbath) we enjoyed a quiet,
pleasant, profitable day of rest. Divine service at 11 a. m.,
with our usual large and interesting meeting in the evening.
General McClellan is happily carrying out his programme with
respeet to the Sabbath ; and that is to rest, so far as camp-life
will permit, and make no forward or aggressive movement, un
less seemingly demanded by some military necessity. Yester
day our whole army, in this region, rested, though a godless
general would no doubt have urged the weary soldiers on after
the retiring rebels. Conversing on the subject with our Briga-

166 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
dier-General, on Saturday last, he expressed to me his full con
viction that more had been effected during the past six days,
than had we advanced on the previous Sabbath; and, more
over, that some military blunders would have been fallen into
by a forward movement on that Sabbath, wbich were avoided
by resting. There is a great reward in keeping God's com
mands. We moved forward a few miles to-day towards Richmond,
and are now encamped on the banks of that now quite familiar,
but narrow, dirty, crooked stream, called Chickahominy —
fifteen miles, perhaps, from that royal city. All manner of ru
mors are now afloat in camp — some that the rebels await us in
strong force in a swamp on the opposite side of the stream —
others that not a rebel is between us and Richmond — that they
have abandoned the city, and some of our troops will enter it to
day. No jalace so difficult as in camp to get the true condition
of things, until some time after they have transpired. We hope,
at least, to be soon in Richmond.
Marriage of Washington. — In the immediate vicinity
of where we camped over Sabbath, (May 18th,) and twenty-two
miles from Richmond, stands St. Peter's church, in which
Washington was married to his Martha, who gave happiness
and eclat to his life, and assists in adding fame to his memory.
Episcopal services were conducted in it a week ago, since which
the incumbent rector has felt constrained to leave with the re
treating rebels, with whom of course he sympathizes. The
building is a small, quaint semi-Gothic structure of brick with
cribbed windows and dobr-ways, and still in a state of good pre
servation. It has been standing for one hundred and fifty-two
years, as indicated by an engraved inscription. The location is

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. . 167
retired, elevated, and beautiful; the walks gravelled and over
shadowed by grand old oaks and pines — all that could be desired
in a place for the marriage of his country's Father. Were
Washington again in the flesh, and here at the marriage church,
could he unite these contending legions of his once beloved co
lonies? Too great a work, no doubt, even for him; but could
he, a more immortal wedding would be consummated than the
one so long ago here, with his beloved Martha.
. Indian Reservation. — In the same neighborhood, a cu
riosity exists in the shape of a miserable little Indian town and
reservation of 1700 acres. Its location is on the Pamunky, a
branch of the York river, and opposite White House Landing.
This miserable, feeble remnant is all that remains of the once
powerful tribes of red men inhabiting this fertile land. Each
of this dirty, greasy remnant, as a matter in course, boasts of
being a lineal descendant of Pocahontas. What a motley group
of descendants that poor little Indian girl has attached to her
as mother ! Some time since, it would seem, General Magru
der pressed all the braves of the tribe into the rebel service.
At this summary breach of their independence, the old men
and women, the wives, young squaws, and pappooses held a grand
pow wow, and sent a remonstrance to Governor Letcher; the
result of which was that the "braves" were allowed to return
to their wigwams, and smoke, if possible, the pipe of peace.
Of course, the miserable little tribe is too contemptible for our
army to make any interference with its rights. No fact could,
perhaps, better illustrate the thorough stand-still condition of
this Old Dominion, than that a few dirty, lazy Indians should
maintain their separate nationality, for over two centuries, in
the midst of one of the most fertile regions of North America.

168 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
Right or wrong, such a people would long since have been
swept wholly away by the tide of Western adventure.
Spirit of the Rebel Army. — It has been my settled con
viction, since this rebellion was inaugurated, that the general
opinion at the North, respecting the rank and file of the South
ern army, is altogether erroneous. Conservatives and fossilized
Democrats, in Congress, with multitudes of sympathizers out
side, continue to assure us that this gigantic rebellion was in
augurated by but a small fraction of the Southern population —
by a few cunning, ambitious politicians and leading slave
holders — that the rank and file of their army, made up from
the poor whites, the scallywags, the Lazaroni, have been de
ceived, and hoodwinked into enlistment, and will be glad, so
soon as convenient, to abandon the rebellion — and hence the
great body of the South should be dealt with very tenderly. In
my judgment, there exists no greater mistake. As a rule, those
Lazoroni of the South have enlisted in the war to fight against
the North with their whole hearts, and with a cherished hatred
as strong as their degraded animal natures will permit. Their
motives for joining so heartily in the rebellion, are, no doubt,
quite different from those of the lordly slaveholder, yet to them
none the less potent for evil. Their general ignorance and
proverbial laziness and poverty, have led them, by contrast,
cordially to hate the intelligent, industrious and thrifty Yan
kees. They also abhor the very thought of the negro's eman
cipation as bitterly as the slaveholder, yet from a different mo
tive. " Should the negro become a freeman, he may, by a su
perior intelligence and industry, rise in the social scale above
me." These impressions were formed years since, by a considerable

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 169
time spent in the far South, and abundantly confirmed since
the battles of Williamsburg and Fair Oaks. The large portion
of those left dead on these battle-fields, were large and physical,
yet evidently of low animal habits — just such men, when trained,
as to fight like tigers- Many of their wounded visited and con
versed with in the hospital, are, with few exceptions, of the
same class. Various squads of prisoners, freely conversed with,
offered no exception. Coarse, ignorant, dirty, brutal in their
instincts, and cherishing a savage hatred and prejudice against
the North, which was often but poorly hidden, even under an
effort, in order to obtain the kindly offices of our soldiers.
Sympathy expended on any class of these rebels, is altogether
misplaced. Nothing but rifle-bullets and bayonets will reduce
them to obedience or respectful action.

Camp, seven Miles from Richmond, 1
May 26th, 1861. /
Whiskey Rations. — There is at present the most serious ap
prehension that the grand army of the Potomac is on the eve of a
terrible and disgraceful defeat, not from the rebels, but from rum.
An order has been issued, the past week, and now carried into
execution, to issue each morning to every officer and soldier of
the army half a gill of whiskey. Gen. M'Clellan is said to be
the author of this monstrous wrong, both to soldier and coun
try. Better for a General, in this enlightened age on tempe
rance, to have suffered a dozen defeats than issue such an order.
But no matter who be responsible, let an indignant Christian
community put such a mark on him or them that they shall,
15

170 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
hereafter, be known as the wholesale drunkard makers; the de
stroyers of men's souls and bodies; the creators of untold an
guish to thousands of mothers, wives, sisters and daughters;
and the breakers down of good morals in the army. All this,
too, under profession of kindness to the soldier, a medicine be
forehand to prevent him from getting sick ! v The whole thing
is a great lie ; an outrageous slander on this grand army. The
daily poison is not needed for its health. Scarce did army
ever endure greater exposure and fatigue than for the past two
months, nor with better health. Those, also, who from prin
ciple have abstained from all intoxicating drinks, are now the
most robust of all. We challenge any skeptic to come and
examine. I have been too long in this service not to know the dreadful
effects of this order. Drunkards and dram-drinkers are boast
ful and jubilant. They have now the furnished approval of
Gen. M'Clellan for drinking and getting drunk. One day the
barrel of poison failed to reach our regiment; the next, two
half gills were issued; the result, drunkenness. Thousands on
thousands of young men and boys, not yet inured to tipple, will
now be induced to swallow their daily glass; seeing it comes to
them as a ration and prescription in order to prevent disease.
Never did I feel so tempted and pressed to relinquish the chap
lain service, and yield all to the control of Satan. God knows
that it has been with no ordinary trials and difficulties that any
influences of the Christian religion have been kept in the army.
And now to be overwhelmed with this unexpected flood-tide of
evil, in the time of our greatest need, seems almost too much to
sustain. The red tape of the army, in a goodly measure, ties
both hands and tongue here. , It is an army regulation. But,
0, do let every mother who has a son, every wife who has a"

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 171
husband, each sister who has a brother, in the army, yea, each
female who has a friend, so besiege the President, Congress,
Gen. M'Clellan, with earnest, indignant petition and remon-_
strance, as must be heard. Let every virtue-loving citizen, who
has a vote, hunt out and mark the author or authors of this
murderous wrong, that, henceforth, no vote shall be theirs
either for civil or military position. Let pulpit and press, hap
pily, stronger than armies and navies, give such united, loud,
and continued condemnation, that this useless and ruinous order
shall be speedily countermanded.
The day following the promulgation of the whiskey order, a
young officer, Captain of one of our companies, one who fears God
and earnestly desires the welfare of each member of his com
pany, and, withal, not excelled in his profession by any officer
of similar grade in the army, came to speak with me of the
matter. " Chaplain," said he, " I feel inexpressibly sad over
this matter. 0, it will certainly be the ruin of half my dear
young men. Most gladly, could it be done consistently, would
I resign and go home. I have just been writing a letter to
my father. on the subject." My request was to see the letter,
and, after perusal, asked leave to transfer the following portion.
It will thus be seen how an earnest, intelligent officer, who has
every opportunity to judge correctly, looks upon the matter.
" I must tell you, dear father, of something which has sad
dened me beyond expression; and something, too, of which I
can only be sad, having no power to remedy. It is, that go
vernment has issued an order, granting to every soldier a half
gill of whiskey every morning. How miserably I felt yesterday,
when I saw nearly my entire company walk up and get their
portion of this accursed poison ! It is due them according to
the order, and there is no use in my trying to prevent their

172
getting it. The medical directors say it is good for the men,
and will prevent their taking fever. Thus it is presented to
the men every morning under the sanction of the government;
that government, which we all believed to be our best friend,
but which, by this order, makes itself our most terrible and
eternal foe. Every man who uses it will acquire the habit of
drinking regularly; and so, when this war is over, five hundred
thousand drinking men are to be turned loose on society. Woe,
woe, to our future greatness, if such is to be the case. This
order will cause mothers to tremble and shudder as no battle
will do — and well may they tremble. This temptation, licensed
by the government, is presented to her boy every morning, and
if he yields, which he is almost certain to do, presented to him
as a medicine, she will receive back that boy, whom she gave
for her country's defence, a besotted, regular dram-drinker.
Father, say to every mother who has a son in my company, that
I lament that I can do nothing to prevent this; my hands are
tied. But the mothers of America have some control over
their sons, though they are in the army. Let them petition
Congress to stop this wholesale drunkard-making. Let editors
write about it, and preachers preach about it, and Christians
pray about it, and it can be stopped. We had a large Tempe
rance meeting last night in order to raise an earnest testimony
against the evil. Our Chaplain, myself and many others, re
solved to draw our rations — it is for officers and privates — and
then pour it on the ground as a drink offering to the cause of
temperance. " When first learning of this order, I felt so much disgusted,
that, had it been possible, I would have quit the service in
stantly; but, on reflection, I thought this would not be the right
way, but stay and endeavor to stop the evil here,"

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 173
Crossing the Chickahominy. — On Friday we crossed the
Chickahominy, and encamped some two miles to the left of the
road leading to Richmond. From the rest of previous Sab
baths, we expected to remain yesterday in camp, and had
preaching appointed for 11 o'clock, a. m.; but, early in the
morning, orders came to be in line for marching by IOJ o'clock.
All the quiet of Sabbath was at once gone, the bustle of prepa
ration, and then the slow wearying march back to the Rich
mond road, then along, and again to the left of it, where we
camped last evening, and from whence I now write, said to be
seven miles from Richmond. We had a refreshing Sabbath
evening's service in camp. This forenoon, baggage wagons
and trains, officers' baggage, all the sick or feeble, are being
sent back across the Chickahominy, and the army marshalled
into order of battle. Whether the enemy will again offer battle
will be seen as we move up towards Richmond. A terrible
scene of blood will be enacted, else will our army soon be in
that famous city; from whence, or near which, I hope to write
my next letter.

Chickahominy, Monday, June 2d, 1862.
Battle of Fair Oaks. — At the close of my last letter, a
promise, in the shape of a hope, was given to date my next
epistle from Richmond. The only satisfactory reason which
can be assigned for a non-fulfilment is, that the rebels would
not let me. This "on to Richmond," proves to be not only a
lingering, but quite a laborious business. On Saturday after
noon, May 31st, our regiment, with its division, was engaged in
15*

174 camp, march and battle-field.
another awful scene of strife and bloodshed. A half dozen
words of Saxon English can doubtless express distinctly and
candidly the result. For the time being, we got the worst of it.
On Friday, the 30th, we made a brief advance, being about six
miles from Richmond. That night a deluge of rain fell on our
defenceless heads, and the morning light exhibited our camp
flooded with water. About noon, we had orders to move about
half a mile in advance, and on the left of our column. The new
position was a little more elevated, and where some more than or
dinarily enterprising secesh had cleared a field, a year or two
since, in the midst of a dense forest, built a log-cabin, little out
houses, and corn-crib. As we now make no calculation whether
we may remain an hour, a day, or a week, in any assigned posi
tion, the first effort, on halting, is to he as comfortable as the place
and condition will allow. By the politeness of our colonel, the
corn-crib was assigned to myself and little son for our exclusive
occupancy. And, had the rebels allowed its occupancy, it would
have proved the most comfortable shelter we had had for the past
two months. Not half an hour, however, after occupancy, a
sharp fire of pickets commenced, close in our front and right;
presently followed the crash of whole regiments — then, in quick
succession and continual roar, the thunder from several bat
teries of artillery; — we were thus, suddenly and unexpectedly,
in another fierce battle. Quick as spoken, all preparations for
comfort were abandoned, and the regiment in line of battle.
The members of each company piled their knapsacks, blankets,
haversacks, etc., together, leaving them under a small guard till
the issue of the battle would be seen. *¦
No enemy appeared in our front, for the reason, as we learned,
of an intervening swamp. There we stood, for three hours,
listening to that awful rage and din of battle, all the while

peninsular campaign. 175
vexed that we could not see the scene of strife, by reason of an
intervening wood. At times the earth almost seemed to be
tearing open, as ten thousand small arms, with scores of cannon,
crashed together, and mingled their roar with whizzing bullets,
bursting shells, and the shouts and cheers of advancing or re
tiring columns. Whenever aught especially exciting happened,
our whole regiment would send up three grand cheers. All
were excited and eager for the fray, and every one impatient,
lest it should end without their having an active hand therein.
About 5 p. M., I became convinced that instead of this rage
of battle getting farther away, it was actually drawing nearer
and more directly on our right. An order now hastily came
for our regiment to go to the right on double-quick — a brisk
run. Away went the boys, with a shout; yet into what a fear
ful place were they so quickly hurried ! By this time, the
enemy, in overwhelming numbers, were pressing back our con
fronting column, seizing our batteries, all the horses of which
were killed, while a number of our regiments were in very
serious disorder. Our object was to hold the enemy in check,
and this our old 13th nobly assisted in doing. A scene of hor
rid carnage immediately ensued. To fall back, soon became a
necessity, else either all be killed or taken prisoners. This was
accomplished without haste or serious disorder. In doing so,
the saddest thing to me was the seeming necessity of leaving our
dead on the bloody field, to be trodden on by an insulting foe ; and
some of those dead were my dearest, best young Christian friends,
who have, for long months, in every possible way, been holding
up my hands as chaplain. Sad and melancholy, yet precious
would have been to me the privilege of assisting to bury, with
befitting ceremony, those dear, mangled bodies. But no matter
into what ditch an insulting foe may cast them, they belong to

176 camp, march and battle-field.
Christ, were sanctified by His Spirit, and in His hands, sorrow
ing friends, they are safe.
So far as discerned at the time, I was the last one of our re
giment to retire from the scene of carnage, and, so far as could
be discovered, none of our wounded were left on the field, —
though the smoke and horrid rage of cannon and musketry, the
shouts and the groans, with the strange, unearthly music of a
thousand passing missiles of death, may have prevented the
discovery of some poor fellow, who would thus fall living into
the tender mercies of the rebels. Fresh troops coming up, our
regiment re-formed, close to the battle-field, where it still main
tains its position. The boys lost their blankets, knapsacks, and
haversacks, thus leaving them in rather a comfortless condition
for spending the damp, chilly night.
From Saturday evening till Sabbath afternoon, all my atten
tion and energies were devoted to our wounded, by which time
all were made as comfortable as the condition would allow, —
their wounds dressed, and a large number sent away by rail
road to the steamboat landing, and hence to a more congenial
place for nursing. By this time, also, dirty, bloody, weary and
sickened with scenes of carnage, mutilation and suffering, I took
my little son behind me, and rode a few miles across the Chicka
hominy, where our baggage had been sent a few days previous,
in order, if possible, to get a day's rest. This became the more
necessary from the fact of my suffering somewhat from a hurt,
received in the battle of Williamsburg, on the 5th of May. Tn
that battle, a cannon-ball struck a pine tree, near to where I
was, scattering the branches in all directions. A small limb
struck me, end foremost, on the breast, directly on the right
nipple, making a slight bruise and consequent soreness, but to
/which no attention was paid for a week or more. Since then a

peninsular campaign. 177
hard swelling has arisen, and so far refuses to be allayed, but
my hope is it will soon pass away.
Voluntary Surgeons. — During the past week, our regi
ment, with others from Pittsburg and vicinity, have been visited
by a large delegation of physicians and citizens from the smoky
city. Their object in coming was not only to see and greet
their friends, hut especially to minister to the wounded and the
sick. Such visits of friendship and benevolence, are always
productive of much good; yet these brethren, especially the
physicians, soon found close limits set to their desires and action
by the red tape of army regulations. If aught were done by
them for the suffering soldier, the permission, supervision, and
direction of army officials must be asked — surgeons, some of
whom, from the single vice of drunkenness, are wholly unfit to
have the lives of men in their care, — men with whom, if at
home and in ordinary practice, our visitors would hardly con
descend to hold a consultation.
With these friends; when returning, I have sent my little
son who has now seen sufficient of camp, and marches, and
battle-fields for one of ten years.

178 CAMP, march and battle-field.

CHAPTER V.
fair oaks— yorktown.
Chickahominy, Va., June 9th, 1862.
A combination of bruises, fatigue, malaria, and execrable
water, have laid a dispensation upon your correspondent to oc
cupy pretty much the same locality since writing my last. Each
day, however, I have been enabled to give a little attention to
our sick, and hope in a few days to be again able for the mul
tiplying duties of the .present position.
Since the late bloody battles, all hereabouts has been re
markably quiet. So far as I can understand, each army occu
pies substantially the same position held previously to the
battle. Each looking fiercely at the other, yet neither in seem
ing haste again to strike. This state of affairs cannot long
continue. The past week of inactivity has had a most debilitating in
fluence upon many of our Regiments. The preceding Hercu
lean labors and fatigue — the fierce excitements of the battle
field — and then, as ours was encamped in a mud hole close be
side the bloody ground — every alternate day or night drenched
with torrents of rain, together with very inadequate shelter —
the hot, sultry weather — putrefying malaria from the blood of men
and horses — and not a drop of water within reach fit either to

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 179
drink or use in cooking, the only marvel is all are not on the sick
list. Should the present condition of things long continue, the
number of invalids must be fearfully swelled. The tocsin for ano
ther battle would in an instant produce a great change for the
better — niore effective far than all the abominable whiskey with
which our poor soldiers are still daily poisoned. So far as my
observation extends, no real good has been produced by its in
troduction ; while cohorts of evil have accompanied.
The smoke and din from our late battles here have by this
time so far cleared away, that thoroughly anxious friends all
over the North have become fairly posted as to those who will
be compelled to mourn over loved ones slaughtered far off here
on the muddy Chickahominy, or to receive back mutilated
friends to be nursed for the remainder of life; as well as those
whose dear ones are still in life, and have their fears and anxie
ties redoubled in anticipation of another near approaching and
bloody battle. Were it possible to measure cares and fears,
anxieties, sorrows and sufferings as a liquid, ocean tides would
roll up and break around every great battle-field. The Lord is
angry with us as a nation.
Effect of Wounds. — It has frequently been' a matter of
special interest to me to notice, not only on the battle-field, but
also in the hospital, the different ways in which wounds affect
different persons. One, when receiving but an insignificant
flesh wound, becomes at once unnerved, tumbles down, and
must needs be carried from the field; and when the wound
comes to be dressed, shouts and screams quite sufficiently to sa
tisfy the French surgeon, whose theory was, that the more a
patient bemoaned, so much the more was his pain eased. Ano
ther may have an arm broken to pieces, a ball tear through the

180 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
fleshy part of the leg, thigh, or body, and yet walk away from
the battle-field alone, and as steadily as though nothing had
happened. A dear young friend from Co. H. of our Regi
ment, in the battle of May 31st, had his arm shattered below
the shoulder; with this dangling by his side, and as though
nothing had happened, he walked away from the battle-field to
a hospital a mile distant, and had the arm amputated without a
grimace. Next morning he walked a mile to the railroad station ;
and when I parted with him there he was visiting some wounded
companions, seemingly unconscious of his own sad mutilation.
I met a soldier, from the battle-field of Sabbath morning, striding
through the mud all alone, and boasting of what his Regiment
had done, yet presenting a most horrible appearance. A Minnie
ball had struck him in front of the left ear, passing upwards
through the face, and tearing his right eye entirely out. Such
a shock must have instantly killed another of finer sensibility.
Gospel in Battle. — The demoniac rage and hellish tumults
of a fierce battle-field, are well calculated to make each one for
get aught but self. Even here, however, scenes of love and
self-sacrificing kindness are sometimes enacted, which would
do no discredit to an angel. In the battle of May 31, when our
regiment was ordered to retire before an overwhelming and ad
vancing force of the rebels, and as this was being executed, a
young soldier of Co. M. fell mortally wounded. His captain,
who to me is a Headley Vicars, seeing the young man had but
a few moments to live, and doubtful as to his fitness for death,
turned back, bent over the dying soldier, and directed his de
parting spirit to Christ, who is able to save to the uttermost, as
well as to the very last. How short, how inexpressibly earnest
and persuasive was that sermon ! God, I trust, accepted the

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 181
sacrifice, blessed that gospel preached, saved, converted, sancti
fied the departing spirit, ere it passed to the judgment-seat.
Such a scene, in such a place, ennobles Christianity — done, as
it was, in the most imminent peril of his own life, or at least of
capture, as the enemy were close at hand. As the spirit de
parted, the captain left the lifeless body, and rejoined his com
pany in safety. O, that God would give us a few more living
Christians, who bear command ! Many, very many officers, will
rush into battle with an oath on the lips, and, if spared, come
out with blasphemy on the tongue.

Fair Oaks, Va., June 23d, 1862.
Battle-Field of Fair Oaks. — On Saturday last, in com
pany with Captain Fulwood, I took not only a general, but mi
nute survey of the hattle-field of " Fair Oaks," or " Seven
Pines." Our immediate object was so to describe the localities
and spots where each one of our regiment, slain in battle, is
buried, that years hence, if occasion require, we could return
and find them. Our belief is, that, when peace returns, our
regiment will send a delegation and take the bones of our dead
from the various battle-fields home to Pittsburg. Various rea
sons prompted us to this careful description and marking the lo
calities. No regularity was or could be observed in burying the
slain. It was the third day after the battle, before an oppor
tunity was allowed for burial. By this time the rains and
heat had rendered the bodies extremely offensive. When
friends found friends, they were fain to dig a little trench, near
by, shove the putrefying body into in, and speedily cover it up.
16

182 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
All of ours were, at first, carefully marked by head-boards,
having inscribed the name, company, and regiment. Yet, even
while here, not a few of such boards have already been removed
for various purposes by vandals from our own army. When we
leave, which, it is fondly hoped, will be soon, little doubt, all
marks, designating the individual dead, will presently disappear.
I have no belief that an honest Union sentiment lurks in the
breast of a single inhabitant of Dixie, between this and Fortress
Monroe. When we are away, all will, no doubt, take pleasure
in obliterating, as far as possible, every trace of this Northern
invasion, even to defacing the lowly resting-places of the dead.
My earnest hope is that the body of no loyal and brave Penn-
sylvanian will finally be left to moulder in this, not sacred, but
soil-accursed by treason towards both God and man. Should
it be my allotment to fall, ere this terrible strife ends, I beseech
my friends to carry my bones home, so that they may com
mingle with kindred dust.
The battle-field? How does it look after three weeks of
June sun and rains? Gloomy, desolate, and offensive. Owing
to the water and the mud, with various other conditions of bu
rial, the body of many a soldier was so inadequately covered,
that, since the water was dried up by the last week's absence
of rain, and the scanty amount of covering falling in, many
a black, decaying hand and foot, or even head, makes a ghastly
projection, and from which emanates a stench offensive even to
sickening. Especially is this the case with the hundreds of
fine horses, slaughtered on the bloody field. The scanty mounds
thrown over each, where it fell, have dried, the earth crumbled
in, and thus opened various holes and crevices to the rotting
carcass — all emitting nauseous gases, tainting the whole atmos
phere. Should any one of my readers still possess any of that

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 183
commodity called the poetry of war, my only wish is they had
walked with us in a minute survey of this now famous battle
ground. Romance and poetry about battle-fields and they would
have speedily separated.
Whiskey Rations. — Let us bless the Lord together. The
order issuing daily rations of whiskey to the soldiers in the army
of the Potomac, has been rescinded. What new light has
beamed into the noddles of sage medical advisers and " Head
quarter" influences, can now only be guessed at, and, therefore,
no effort need be made to write them at present. To every man
of discernment and judgment, the thing has been working much
evil, while entirely failing to accomplish the proposed objects —
keeping away disease, and rendering the soldiers more healthy
and efficient. Should no additional blindness induce the powers
that be to renew the whiskey ration, we will, while in our pre
sent condition, have an absence of drunkenness among our rank
and file : get it here they cannot. Would that a similar neces
sity rested upon officers of every grade. Although difficulty is
frequently experienced in getting forward sufficient army sup
plies through the limited channels which have been opened,
yet is it said and believed that whole wagon-loads of boxes,
filled with champagne, brandy, and whiskey, for " Head-quar
ters," find preference in public conveyance.
Florence Nightingales.— During the past week, we were
visited by Mrs. Harris, of Philadelphia, the indefatigable dis
penser of unnumbered blessings to our sick soldiers. As writ
ten in one of my letters from Tennelly, last winter, Mrs. Harris
is the visiting and disbursing agent of a large ladies' association
in Philadelphia, as well as various other aiding societies in New

184 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
Jersey and elsewhere. Her coming here at this time, with
such a seeming inexhaustible supply, has been most opportune —
a God-send — an angel's visit. No place on earth could well be
more free from all elements of physical comfort, than this for
lorn region about the Chickahominy is at present.
In company with Mrs. Harris, and Mrs. Samson, from Maine,
I visited, on Friday last, an old secession mansion, into which
ninety of our sick, from various regiments, have heen collected.
The visit of these ladies was wholly unexpected by the sick,
and deeply interesting was it to witness the joyous surprise of
the poor invalids, as each one in turn was visited, words of kind
ness spoken, and his wants ministered to. Not one of them, for
long months, had heard the voice of soothing kindness from
woman's lips. Not a few were at first wholly overcome, yet all
felt happier and better. Calling next day to inquire of their
welfare, almost every one spoke with enthusiasm of the previous
day's visit.
Religious Service. — Readers will, no doubt, be inte
rested again to hear from our evening meeting for prayer and
social worship. Some of our active members were killed in the
late battle. Quite a number were severely wounded, among whom
is the active Secretary of our Christian Association, son of Rev.
Dr. Young, of Butler, Pennsylvania, — all away in hospital. A
day or two after the battle, several companies, among which is
our largest delegation of members, were sent out, three or four
miles, on picket, and have not yet been recalled. These seem
ing serious hinderanees caused us to doubt the ability success
fully to carry on our meetings. This was our infirmity. At
no previous time have our meetings been so large, so full of in
terest, and affording such evidence of profit, as for the past two

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 185
weeks. Many, who never before attended, are now regularly
with us. Several who, a few weeks since, were awfully profane
swearers, are now trembling and prayerful inquirers after what
they shall do to be saved. Quite a number, also, from regi
ments encamped near us, who have no religious service, though
some have chaplains, hearing our .singing, came at first to learn
what it meant, and now attend regularly, some taking part with
us. Good cause have we to erect an Ebenezer, and say, " Hither
to hath the Lord helped us."

Harrison's Landing, 25 Miles below Richmond, 1
July 7th, 1862. /
Seven Days' Fighting. — The failure to send my usual
weekly letter, on Monday of last week, June 30th, may have a
satisfactory solution, without supposing that your correspon
dent was sick, wounded, killed, or in the hands of the rebels ;
/ none of which calamities were upon him. The truth is, for a
whole week my usual letters were never thought of; more fear
ful realities occupying each moment and every thought. During
the past ten days, it has been an almost unceasing struggle for
self-preservation. This seemed to depend on the ability of our
army to beat back the assaulting power of rebeldom, and gain* a
new and safer position, by a retrograde movement.
Where to begin, where -to end, or what to say, in the brief
compass of a letter, concerning the strangely diversified, and
constantly multiplying events of those intervening days seem
difficult to determine. The truthful historian will, hereafter,
take many pages to narrate the same. Whether we have been
IB*

186
suffering defeats or gaining victories, undergoing serious re
verses, or approaching nearer a final triumph, is not my pur
pose at present to discuss. A brief recital of what our own
regiment has passed through, may perhaps be the most satisfac
tory. This, however, not unduly to enhance the old thirteenth,
nor exalt it above others equal in action and endurance, but
because, with the movements of our own regiment I was at va
rious times alone familiar.
On Friday morning, June 27th, being still encamped on the
battle-field of Fair Oaks, our regiment was ordered in front of
our lines, on picket duty for twenty-four hours. The position
was in an underbrush wood. The enemy, in large force, were
so near, that every ordinary word spoken by them could be dis
tinctly heard. A promiscuous firing soon commenced, which
continued with but little intermission during the entire night;
in which time, most of our men discharged their pieces from
fifty to seventy times.
Relieved at 8, A. M., on Saturday morning, and ordered
back to camp two miles; yet, before reaching which, got orders
for each to hastily gather up what he could carry, and burn
the rest. During the scenes described I had no horse, but
took it all on foot with the soldiers. A few simple necessities
were arranged for a package on the shoulder, and all the rest
of my little camp fixings looked at with much complacency,
while turned into ashes. Off we started, knowing neither why
or whither, under a scorching June sun. Making a circuitous
route of some ten or twelve miles, in a southwardly direction,
we were halted at dusk, in a pine wood; and notwithstanding
the sinking weariness, held a large and most refreshing prayer
meeting. Roused and in line of battle by day-break on Sabbath morn-

peninsular campaign. 187
ing, by reason of picket-firing in front, and thus kept wearily
standing and awaiting till 4, p. m. At this time,' filed into a
by-road, and marched till dark, yet no halt; on we went; and
on during all that wearisome Sabbath night, through fields,
through woods, through swamps, till sunrise on Monday morn
ing, we were on the banks of James river. Rested for three or
four hours, and again in line of battle, wearily waiting to see
some one to shoot at till 4, p. M. For hours previously, heavy
and constant cannonading had been heard away back from the
direction we had come. At this time, orders came to march
back at double quick step ; and back we went. Marched till
dusk, and halted in a newly harvested oat-field, where we had
another large and soul-sustaining social prayer-meeting. The
boys made beds of the oat-sheaves and tumbled down, fondly
hoping to rest their weary bodies and souls. Yet were they
scarcely down ere an order — Up and on — and up and on we
went till ten or eleven at night, and halted on the battle-field of
the previous afternoon; where, through the gloom of night, we
could see the dead bodies of men and horses scattered around
us. Rested here for two hours, by which time all the troops
engaged in the previous day's hattie had safely fallen back.
Our mission was thus accomplished; when we again marched
back towards James river until after day-light, when we took
position in line of battle. Here, M'Clellan's whole army seemed
to be congregated and arranging for some expected and terrible
struggle. Battle of Malvern Hill. — So far as I can understand
the description of the battle-ground at Waterloo, this much
resembles it. A small stream runs in a southward direction,
yet, in a mile and a half, making a gradual curve in the shape

188 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
of a half moon. Undulating hills rise on either side to the
height of seventy-five feet. Beautiful wheat, oats, and corn
fields, covered nearly all these gently sloping hills. Much
of the wheat and oats was still uncut. On the west side of the
stream, and on the inner side of the half circle, were arranged
the various corps and divisions of the Union army. Several
hundred pieces of artillery pointed and frowned at the opposite
hills and fields. It was evidently the purpose to depend prin
cipally upon the artillery in the coming struggle.
Early in the forenoon, the rebels began to make their ap
pearance and boldly take position on the opposite hanks of the
little stream. For hours their parks of artillery, supported by
regiments of infantry, came on and arranged themselves in
splendid order of battle. Many parades and reviews had I seen,
but this, on both sides of the stream, was by far the grandest
and most wonderfully exciting ever before witnessed. While
all these arrangements were being made, not a gun was fired,
nor cannon opened its thunder. About noon this ominous,
awful silence was broken, by the discharge from one of our
cannon. And then ! Yes, and then ! My httle son having
witnessed the battles of Williamsburgh and Fair Oaks, and af
terwards, hearing a news-boy shouting through camp, " Har
per's Weekly, containing pictures of these battles," eagerly ran
and paid his quarter for a number. After examining the pic
tures for some time, he indignantly threw down the paper, with
the remark, " Pshaw, it's no use; they can't picture a battle."
It's no use to try; no one can describe a battle. Soon, two
hundred pieces of artillery were belching forth their awful
thunders, and scattering solid shot, shells and canister, among
the rebels on the opposite banks, Nor were they, in the mean
time, idle. Bold and unflinching, they opened on us their

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 189
thunders, and, presently, left no doubt as to their skill and ac
curacy in gunnery. At first, their balls, shells and canister,
flew and whizzed, and screamed, and burst over our heads, or
fell far beyond. Yet, soon obtaining such accuracy of range
as to make each one feel that, between him and death, there
might be but a moment. Yonder, a cannon-ball tore through
the ranks, dashing to pieces one, two, or three soldiers. There
a horse and rider were knocked down together. Here, a shell
exploded, tearing off the head of one, the arm of a second, and
leg of a third.
Never were -soldiers placed in a position more fully and ter
ribly to test their enduring courage, than was our regiment,
during the whole of that fearful afternoon of July 1st, and never
did men sustain themselves more honorably. None blanched,
nor quailed, nor fell back. When a soldier on the battle-field
is allowed to load and fire his gun at pleasure, he finds in it both
occupation and excitement, thus measurably forgetting his own
danger. On that day, however, the duty of our regiment was
different — to support a battery — which meant that the regiment
was to form close in the rear of six guns, and if the enemy
should attempt to capture them by any bold move or sudden
charge, the simple order to our men was, "Don't let them."
Thus, for ten long hours, our brave boys had no other occupa
tion than to remain inactive in one position, and have the
enemy's shells and canister thrown among them, killing and
wounding many. At no time was the enemy sufficiently near
to use effectively the rifle or the musket. While my duties led
me frequently to pass over the field, from the regiment to the
rear with the wounded and return, thus exposed to equal dan
ger, for balls and shells seemed to be falling and bursting every

190 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
where; yet, being generally in motion, the condition was more
endurable than to be kept inactive, in one position.
Darkness at length brooded over the scene of carnage, when
the thunders of artillery and work of death gradually ceased.
The design of giving battle here seemed merely to hold the
enemy in check, so as to gain the James river in safety, from
which we were yet distant some six or eight miles. This was
fairly and fully accomplished, the rebels gaining not the slightest
advantage on any part of the widely-extended field. After
night had set in, the various corps and divisions of our army
again resumed a retrograde movement towards the river. I re
mained at our extemporized hospital on the field of battle until
two in the morning, — by which time all the army, save a rear
guard, was in motion. A large portion of the wounded we were
enabled to take along; nearly all tbe dead were -left unburied on
the field. Major Poland was among the killed in our regiment,
whose body we brought along and buried on the banks of the
James river. Lieutentant Moony we buried at the hospital on
the field.
At daylight on Wednesday morning it commenced to pour
down on our weary march in torrents. By noon we were again at
James river, drenched with the rain, and the soft soil trampled
knee-deep into mud. The men were without tents or shelter,
and most without blankets -or over-coats. What a condition in
which to rest the weary, aching, fainting bodies! But after
four days and three nights of incessant toil, marches, and
fightings, half the time without food, and not a moment to sleep,
any place to rest was as a bed of down. Never before did I so
fully realize how much severe and incessant fatigue men can
endure. .Never before were my own powers of endurance so
long and terribly taxed ; yet now, after a few days' comparative

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 191
rest, I feel fresh and well as ever, save a still remaining swell
ing, and soreness, with occasional pain from the wound or bruise
received at Williamsburgh over two months since.
Once again have we all abundant occasion for gratitude to
God, on account of the special and manifest care granted to us.
During all those four or five days and nights of constant marches,
dangers, skirmishes, and battles, we had but ten killed, and forty-
nine wounded from our regiment. Marvellous is it in our eyes.
Our regiment is now in good fighting condition. Notwithstanding
all the fearful fatigue, exposure, and battles of the past three
months, it still can muster nearly, if not quite seven hundred
effective men.i I verily believe this is by much the largest
number of any regiment in the whole army which has performed
equal service. Would you learn the reason, dear reader, for
this? We have held a large and interesting regimental prayer
meeting, each evening, during these three months' terrible strug
gle. Does not God hear and answer prayer ?
A Rabbit Tamed — An Incident on the Battle-Field
of Malvern Hills. — A full-grown rabbit had hid itself away
in the copse of a fence, which separated two fields near the cen
tre and most exposed portion of the battle-ground. Rabbits are
wont to spend the day almost motionless, and in seeming dreamy
meditation. This one could have had but little thought — if
rabbits think — when choosing its place of retreat at early dawn,
that ere it was eventide there would be such an unwonted and
ruthless disturbance.
During all the preparations for battle made around its lair
throughout the forenoon, it, nevertheless, remained quiet. Early,
however, in the afternoon, when the rage of battle had fairly
begun, and shot and shell were falling thick and fast in all di-

192
rections, a shell chanced to burst so near Mr. Rabbit's hiding-
place, that he evidently considered it unsafe to tarry longer.
So, frightened almost to death, out he sprang into the open
field, and ran hither and thither with the vain hope of finding
a safe retreat. Whichever way it ran cannons were thundering
out their smoke and fire, regiments of men were advancing or
changing position, horses galloping here and there, shells burst
ing, and solid shot tearing up the ground. Sometimes it would
squat and lie perfectly still, when some new and sudden dan
ger would again start it into motion. Once more it would
stop and raise itself as high as possible on its hind legs, and
look all around for some place of possible retreat.
At length that part of the field seemed open which lay in the
direction opposite from where the battle raged most fiercely. Thi
ther it accordingly ran with all its remaining speed. Unobserved
by it, however, a regiment was in that direction, held in re
serve, and like Wellington's at Waterloo, was lying flat on the
ground, in order to escape the flying bullets. Ere the rabbit
seemed aware, it had jumped into the midst of these men. It
could go no farther, but presently nestled down beside a soldier,
and tried to hide itself under his arm. As the man spread the
skirt of his coat over the trembling fugitive, in order to insure
it of all the protection in his power to bestow, he no doubt feel
ingly remembered how much himself then needed some higher
protection, under the shadow of whose arm might be hidden his
own defenceless head, from the fast-multiplying missiles of death,
scattered in all directions.
It was not long, however, before the regiment was ordered
up and forward. From the protection and safety granted, the
timid creature had evidently acquired confidence in man — as
the boys are wont to say, " Had been tamed." As the regi-

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 193
ment moved forward to the front of the battle, it hopped along,
tame, seemingly, as a kitten, close at the feet of the soldier who
had bestowed the needed protection. Wherever the regiment
afterwards went, during all the remaining part of that bloody
day and terrible battle, the rabbit kept close beside its new
friend. When night came on, and the rage of battle had ceased,
it finally, unmolested and quietly, hopped away, in order to find
some one of its old and familiar haunts.

Harrison's Landing, James River, 1
July 14th, 1862. /
Damages Repaired. — Since my last, no material change
has taken place in this our new position, on this famous old
James river. The smoke of the many recent battles has, in a
goodly measure, cleared away. The various regiments have
been busily counting up their losses, re-arranging their remain
ing forces, and preparing for a new struggle. The many va
cancies of officers, slaughtered in the late battles, have generally
been filled by those of inferior grade, who have been well tried
in the late campaign. Not a few officers, who have apparently
run down in the service, have offered their resignations, which,
as a wise and safe rule, have generally been accepted, and their
places filled with vigorous and active men. The wounded have
been removed to Northern hospitals, the sick well cared for in
extemporized hospitals, and those who were but weary have
been rested, refreshed, and have new confidence and courage
infused. Though reduced in number by half, yet would the
army of the Potomac fight, to-morrow, a more skilful and per-
17

194 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
haps quite as effective a battle as at any previous period. Re
inforcements are daily coming up the James river, and bein"
attached to and arranged with the various corps of the army.
Concerning the future movements, when and where, of the
grand army, we have no information, and, concerning them
give ourselves but little anxiety. We may remain here a few
days, a week. a. month, or six months.
Uncle Abe. — A certain character, of some note at present,
called Abraham Lincoln, lately made a sudden and unexpected
detour of inspection through our various camps. Whether the
face of said Uncle Abe be ugly or handsome, we leave for phy
siognomists to determine. While riding along the lines a strong
effort was made to look pleasant — to present, on said face, a
smile, a grin, or a laugh; yet, from a peculiar wrinkle in that
broad mouth, some evidence was manifested, save for so many
lookers-on, that the grin would have been a cry. And why
not? More than' half that grand army the President so proudly
reviewed, in the neighborhood of Washington, less than four
months since, was absent from this parade, rotting on the dozen
battle-fields, stinking in the swamps and muddy ditches of the
sluggish Chickahominy, maimed and languishing in a hundred
hospitals, or pining, as captives, in the hands of the rebels.
The truthful historian will hereafter be compelled to hold some
one accountable for this wholesale and unnecessary slaughter,
within three months, of seventy-five thousaud as brave men as
ever trod a battle-field, — and the only seeming result of this
enormous slaughter, apparent reverses.
For writing and publishing the above paragraph, the Chaplain was
well-nigh dismissed, in a summary manner, from the great army of

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 195
the Potomac. It was copied into a secular paper, and widely circu
lated. Meeting, at length, the vigilant eye of a certain Copperhead
Militia Colonel, called McCabe, living in the neighborhood of Pittsburg,
Pennsylvania, by him the extract was, with a flaming, indignant letter
of his own, forwarded to Head-quarters, Army of the Potomac, still at
Harrison's Landing. Said communication of McCabe, set forth that
this letter-writer was a dangerous character, an agitator, a revealer of
unlawful things, an exaggerator, a rabid abolitionist, and ought to be
forthwith dismissed from the army.
The gravity of the subject at once called the attention of Little Mac
from schemes of strategy against the rebel army and Richmond. The
letter of McCabe, with the obnoxious paragraph, was enclosed within
an official envelope, tied with red tape, and sent down to Gen. Keys,
our corps commander, in order to confront therewith this naughty
Chaplain. A note from corps head-quarters, signified that this writer
be there, in proper person, on day and date specified. Obedient to
summons, the author stood in the presence of military greatness, and
inquired as to what was- wanted?
"Did you write that?" was blandly asked by General Keys, as the
above extract was put into my hands.
"I wrote it, General; my name is attached thereto, as it is to every
thing written by me for the press."
"Do you know the author of this communication?" at the same time
handing me McCabe's letter.
"Don't know McCabe, General."
"Well, Chaplain, these documents were sent here with the evident
design that therewith you should be arraigned and confronted."
"I am here, General; what do you wish farther?"
"Wished to know how you are getting on with your Chaplain's
work?" " Hopefully. We have large religious meetings every evening.
Come and join us in one of them, General, and our work will be still
more hopeful."
"Go back, then, Chaplain, and attend to your work in camp. This.
is but a pitiful electioneering business. I shall return these docu-

196 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
ments to head-quarters, with the endorsement, that I have no time at
present to look upon such small matters."
McCabe's letter, with the extract, has not since been heard from.

Harrison's Landing, July 21, 1862.
Anniversary. — This is the anniversary ofthe Battle of Bull
Run. Sad as that defeat was deemed, it was nevertheless the
greatest mercy God has ever conferred on our nation. The
Union troops victorious at Bull Run, the rebellion would have,
no doubt, presently been quelled, yet not broken. The causes
of it would have remained unremoved, the elements of strife left
to fester and be continually breaking out in new broils. That
event changed the whole character of the war, with its history
and its destiny. By it the North was compelled to draw out
its resources; and, in doing so, has not only astonished itself,
but also all other rival nations of the earth. A national name,
a history, and an influence, have been attained already by this
war, greater than ever heretofore reached, and higher than could
have been accomplished by any other known agency. It has
proved an effective education in all the elements of a nation's
greatness; this, too, while the war still rages. What, there
fore, must be the grand results, when it shall he successfully
finished ?
Nor is this all. God has brought on the present strife in
blood, in order to destroy the abominable system of American
slavery, which has caused the whole rebellion. Had the war
virtually ended by a great Union victory a year ago tc-day,
slavery must needs have been left almost intact. Each new

peninsular campaign. 197
phase, however, of the struggle, especially any seeming adver
sity, has brought out some new accusation against, and invasion
of slavery's boasted prerogatives. The nation was not at first
ready, or willing to kill the monster outright — nor is it yet en
tirely prepared for such a result. The Lord is, nevertheless,
fast educating the whole people for this result. Our late re
verses before Richmond have pushed the nation rapidly in that
direction. Jehovah doeth all things well. He will have his
own way in national affairs, whether Presidents, Senators, and
Generals, be willing or not. Blessed be His name. We can
still trust Him for right results from this great contest.
All Quiet along the James River.1— During the seven
months which we dragged out at Tennelly, D. C, waiting the
moving ofthe military waters, the usual and stereotyped heading
of letters came at length to be, "All quiet along the Army ofthe
Potomac." Such may also become an appropriate heading from
this locality — "All quiet along the Army of James B-issxZ'
Since the war commenced, no recollection exists of a week more
quietly spent than the one since my last letter. No enemy has
been in sight, no picket fired upon. The trenches, rifle-pits,
breastworks, and batteries, to defend us in this new position,
have been, with crushing toil and fainting weariness, pretty ge
nerally completed.
This chopping, road-building, digging and shovelling, night
and day, through sunshine and storm, heat and cold, has within
the past three and a half months sacrificed the lives of forty
thousand brave .men, or reduced them to the condition of hope
less invalids. The combined physical efforts thus put forth in
this campaign would have pushed a dozen Richmonds — inhabi
tants and all — into the James river. Yet, notwithstanding all
17*

198
the unstinted drudgery our regiment has undergone in chop
ping, digging, and shovelling, in swamps and muddy ditches,
in rain and sunshine, in the darkness and in the light, not one
of the erections thus made has ever been to us of the slightest
advantage in the day of battle. In every instance when the
fighting had to be done, these were abandoned, and the enemy
met in the brushwood, or in the open field.
Chaplains. — A correspondent of the New York Herald,
writing from this plaee, thus speaks about Chaplains: — "This
(July 13th) has been an unusually quiet Sabbath in camp. All
unnecessary labor has been suspended, and opportunity afforded
to observe the day as a day of rest and religious observance.
I have not, however, been able to discern any indications of re
ligious services. Notwithstanding I have visited a number of
regiments, in only one place did I observe any of the customary
divine services to be held. The fact is that the Chaplains
have made themselves, as a general thing, very scarce since the
late severe fighting and dangers experienced by the army. In
truth, the chaplains generally seem to have a much greater re
gard for their own comfort and safety, than for the religious
welfare of the soldiers. There are but a very few who have
any influence whatever with the men. They are not of that
devoted, self-sacrificing class of men who are content to count
all things as loss — honors, comfort, and property — if they can
but win souls. That the chaplains might be very useful, and
do much good, there can be no doubt. A great many of them
are, however, totally unfit for the office which they have as
sumed, and these make the office of chaplain a by-word among
the soldiers. This may be thought severe; but it is the truth,
as any one acquainted with the army can testify, and it is a

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 199
truth which should be told. It would be well for the Govern-
" ment to save the money expended upon army chaplains, and
expend it in some other way for the comfort and convenience
of the soldiers."
Although this is after the usual reckless manner of the He
rald reporters, yet must it be confessed that there is in it too
much sad truth. There certainly exists, at present, a wide and
deplorable want of earnest, Christian, evangelical labor in this
army of the Potomac; and at no previous period was there a
door so widely open — were the soldiers so ready to give heed to
saving truth. Some regiments never have had chaplains, not
having interest sufficient to elicit them; some chaplains have
become enfeebled in the service, and gone home; others have
wearied with the labor, and done likewise; some are hanging
on as worse than dead weights, disgracing the cause of Christ,
and causing it to stink in the nostrils of the soldiers; while
others, happily, have been faithful to the duties of their office,
and been instrumental in doing much good. Not an instance
in the army where a chaplain has labored with prudence, dili
gence, and faithfulness, that it is not manifest in the improved
condition of his regiment, and that he is not held in high esti
mation both by officers and privates. It seems a misfortune
that some more distiuct tribunal did not exist to which chap
lains were made directly and strictly accountable — where, if
found incompetent, disorderly, or negligent, they would be at
once removed and replaced by more competent and faithful men.
Harrison's Farm. — This place, at present of some noto
riety, as the centre of our position on James river, takes its
name from a grand old estate and mansion, which has been for
several generations in possession of the " Harrison Family."

200 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
Here Wm. H. Harrison, President of the United States, was
born, and spent his early life. Here lived and died his father,
who signed the Declaration of Independence. Here, also, dwelt
his grandfather, with other more remote ancestry, for aught the
record tells. Full portraits of both the father and grandfather
of President Harrison are hung upon the wall of the old man
sion. Why his own is not in company cannot be said; perhaps
it was, and removed when the family lately fled. It would he
difficult to find a more beautiful location, a more staid and dig
nified mansion, with its old and beautiful shade trees, and other
surroundings, or a more beautiful and well-cultivated estate.
When the advance of our army reached this on the 2d of
July, every thing wore a peaceful, quiet, and fruitful aspect.
A wheat field, containing at least two hundred acres, had heen
neatly harvested, and the grain in shock. Ere the next morn
ing's light fifty thousand soldiers, ten thousand cavalry, and two
hundred pieces of artillery, had trodden the wheat crop wholly
out of sight, and worked the soil knee-deep in mud — a torrent
of rain falling during the intervening twenty-four hours. The
mansion was furnished in a beautiful and costly manner. Cu
riously carved articles of furniture, of a hundred years' stand
ing, together with the last modern improvement and finish from
the North. Nothing seemed to have been removed from the
house or premises when the secesh owners fled. Nearly all the
fine furniture was carried out and laid in the yard, in order to
make room for the sick and wounded. Such is war — a great
consumer, a terrible ravager, a fearful destroyer.
The Health of the Army,— This can hardly be said, in
truthfulness, to improve — nor does it appear materially to be
come worse. Hot weather is not necessarily unhealthy; yet in

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 201
this oppressive heat, and under our conditions of camp life, it
proves no easy matter for the multitudes who came here greatly
debilitated, and with the seeds of disease contracted in the
marshes of the Chickahominy, to become speedily restored to
vigor. It is gratifying to record, that at no period, or place,
since coming on the peninsula, have the appliances for the con
venience and comfort of the sick been so extensive and good.
Almost every regiment has been furnished with two large hos
pital tents, each capable of accommodating a dozen patients.
These are now generally all full : besides, many who are unfit for
duty, yet remain in their own quarters. A central hospital is
at the Harrison mansion. This, with the out-houses, the sta
bles, together with nearly a hundred hospital tents pitched in
the spacious yard and gardens, and under the grand old shade
trees, are filled with about a thousand sick soldiers, afflicted
with all manner of ailments which have tristed humanity ever
since Paul had his thorn in the flesh. The principal diseases
which at present affect our soldiers, are diarrhcea, intermittent
and typhoid fevers, and scurvy. The worst and most invete
rate cases of disease are weekly shipped off to more northern
hospitals and a more salubrious climate.
Death of Dr. Whitesell. — The Pittsburg community, and
more especially his own neighborhood, have been thrown into
deep sadness by the sudden .death, at this place lately, of Dr.
Whitesell, of Harmarsville, Allegheny county, Pa. Coming at
a time of great need, with his large medical skill and expe
rience, in order to assist in alleviating the sufferings of others,
he, too, soon fell a victim to his own devotion. The weather
berig at the time extremely hot, and the multitudes requiring
medical aid so great, over-exertion was the consequence; a ma-

202 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
lignant, congestive typhoid ensued, which too soon proved fatal,
though surrounded all the while by a number of skilful and de
voted medical friends from Pittsburg.
Being an intimate personal acquaintance, I was with him in
his last hours as often as other duties would permit. We had
several free and satisfactory conversations respecting death, in
view of his own dissolution ; and at his own request I prayed
with him once and again. The Holy Spirit of God can alone
pour consolation into the heart of his stricken, desolate wife
and two dear children. And may this be graciously bestowed!
0, how many sad, desolate homes this war is making!
Northern Benevolence. — The unstinting efforts made hy
generous friends in various localities through the North for the
temporal and spiritual welfare of the soldiers, both in camp and
hospital, cheer thousands of languid, sinking hearts, and move
multitudes of strong arms to continued perseverance. No sooner
were we on James river, than was present among us the inde
fatigable Mrs. Harris, ministering to the wounded and the sick.
As agents, also, of the Philadelphia Army Aid Society, with its
connectives, Rev. Dr. Wylie, with Revs. Sterret, McAuley, and
Steele, of our church, from that city, almost as soon as the army
was encamped here, were present among us, and for ten days,
with the abundant supplies furnished them, have been as angels
of mercy, carrying delicacies and comforts to the feeble, the sick,
the wounded in hospital and in camp — speaking to them of the
love of Christ, as well as preaching both in hospitals and in
camp. My own soul has been greatly refreshed by the presence
and fellowship of these dear brethren. They have come and
preached to our regiment, visited and administered to our sick,
partaken of our camp fare, and slept with me on the ground.

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 203
Truly, "as iron sharpeneth iron, so the countenance of a man
his friend." The last of these visitors was brother Patterson,
from Chicago. His visit to me was more profitable than would
have been that of an angel from heaven. In the company
of the celestial visitant there would have been an awed con
straint, if not fear — with this deat brother, none. As we vi
sited various regiments and camps — walked, talked, ate, and
slept together, the iron was sharpened — both physical and moral
implements for labor all refitted. Judging, also, from my own
feelings, and those manifest in many of our regiment, the re
sults from his preaching to us are not yet all counted.

Harrison's Landing, Va., Aug. 5th, 1862.
Growth in Grace. — Camp life is the best condition on
earth in which for the Christian to grow in grace ! This is
not asserted as a paradox, but as a truth, happily, already often
verified, and is capable of the clearest demonstration from the
most enlightened philosophy of the human mind. It is also
attested, both by the declarations and directions of God's word.
The more vigorous exercise the body undergoes, so much the
more active and athletic does it become. Close and connected
thought always enlarges and strengthens the mind. Nor do
the moral and spiritual powers of the soul form any exception
to this rule.
All great achievements are accomplished by overcoming re
sistance. No one can manifest, either to himself or others, how
strong he may be until, by repeated trials, it is_ fairly ascer
tained how much opposing force he can overcome. Bravery

204
is tested by the number and character of the enemy battled
and overcome. Attainments in the Christian life are made un
der the operations of the same law. No one can judge correct
ly how good a Christian such a one may be, nor even whether
a Christian at all, until frequently tested by meeting and over
coming various temptations. Hence, says James, " Count it
all joy, my brethren, when ye fall into divers temptations;
knowing that the trying of your faith worketh patience.
Blessed is the man that endureth temptation; for, when he is
tried, he shall receive a crown of life." This source of enjoy
ment, mentioned by the Apostle, not only abounds in camp, but
is constantly forcing itself upon both saint and sinner. The
Christian who, daily and hourly, meets and overcomes all those
enemies, in the shape of temptations, in camp life, must needs,
from the exercise, become stronger and stronger in faith, hope,
joy and courage, and assume the character of a veteran, after
so many hard-fought battles. This, some have already done —
Gardiner, Havelock, Vicars, Hammond — this, still more are
now doing. These conquests, moreover, must be made daily,
by every one who lives at all as a Christian in such a place. He
is constantly on the battle-field with his enemy, and, unless
they be overcome, he must. All that is needed for constant
victory is more grace; and for this, the promise is sure: "My
grace shall be sufficient for you." " As thy days, so shall
thy strength be."
That minister who asserted that, were he to remain long in
camp, he would not only learn to think in the language of pro
fanity, on account of its commonness, but, also, to use it in his
ordinary conversation, that divine gave evidence, that either he
did not speakr-truthfully of himself, or that no grace was in his
possession when commencing the trial, and that none was

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 205
granted during its continuance. With great confidence, as
well as thankfulness, am I persuaded, that not a few in our re
giment loathe, to-day, profane swearing much more intensely
than a year ago, though their ears have been polluted by pro
fanity, as well as all other filthy communications, every waking
hour, during that whole period. Nor is this the only source
for heartfelt thankfulness. Not a few who entered our regi
ment a year since, already accustomed to all manner of profa
nity, now, have not only ceased its use, but loathe the things
they once loved.
It must, however, be confessed, that of all known places this
side the pit, a camp proves itself the readiest for the merely
moral or nominal professor, to sink to a level with the
wicked — the quickest to fall into the use of their profanity —
the place where the greatest facilities are afforded the sinner
for getting on the fast line to eternal death. In a word, the
camp is the best and the worst place to live in, according as the
means afforded, in the condition, are improved or neglected.
A Toad Catching Flies. — Did you ever see a toad catch
ing flies ? " Never," you say ; then an irrepressible impulse to
laughter has thus far been missed. Our sources of innocent
amusement are not superabundant in camp. Hence, those
which are considered more ordinary may have the better relish.
Our Lieutenant-Colonel and myself occupy the same quarters.
Since coming to this place, we have not only succeeded in ob
taining a new tent, but also have a rude floor constructed from
an empty goods box. Beneath this floor, a large, respectable-
looking toad has taken up his headquarters. The habit of all
his tribe is to spend the entire day almost motionless, and in the
darkest nook which can be found.

206 The principal food for such creatures consists in various spe
cies of flies; and as Mr. Toady grows and swells to the dimen
sions of an alderman, his- subsistence must be obtained in pretty
large quantities. By day he is stupid, awkward in motion, and
dull of vision. Mr. Fly, on the contrary, is alert, active and
quick-sighted. At eventide an entire change comes over both.
Toady gets wide awake, and his flyship dull, heavy, and almost
motionless. Every housekeeper knows that the fly remains mo
tionless in the dark. By lamp or candle-light he will crawl
over the floor, wall or ceiling, yet seldom use his wings,-unless
alarmed. Twilight is accordingly the time in which toady be
gins to look sharply about him for his evening's repast, having
digested, fasted, and snoozed for twenty-four hours. Our new
and staid neighbor presently discovered that the rude floor of
our tent afforded the most practicable place for his operations.
No sooner, therefore, is our evening candle lighted, than out
comes our late acquaintance from his hiding-place, scrambles
up on the floor, and, without the slightest apparent fear or ce
remony, commences sucking in the flies in his unique and alto
gether original manner.
A few evenings since a late paper was received, on which se
veral officers came into our tent, so that one might read aloud,
and all hear the news. No sooner was the circle formed and
the candle burning, than toady made his dignified appearance,
in order to obtain his customary supper. One proposed that the
seeming intruder be adjourned without ceremony — another that
he be conveyed to the guard-house for the evening. Objection,
however, being made to such a disposal of our visitor, the ques
tion was propounded, " Did you ever see a toad catching flies ?"
Several answering in the negative, it was suggested that the
reading be suspended, and all observe the operation. Flies here

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 207
being almost ubiquitous, there was but a brief waiting. At the
first effort of toady, all present burst into an irrepressible fit of
laughter, while each new victim devoured but increased the in
terest and amusement.
A toad has a tongue which, without any apparent motion of
body, he can shoot out six inches, with lightning velocity and in
credible accuracy. On the end of his tongue there is a little flap
like a brush of fine camel's hair. This being always wet with
saliva, it no sooner comes in contact than the fly adheres, and,
quick as thought, is transferred into the mouth of toady, and
devoured with evident gusto. As the operation proceeded, one
officer took notice that master toad had been carefully studying
civil engineering — that he could measure and calculate distance
to a hair's breadth. A second found him to be a perfect marks
man, not failing to hit his mark once in a dozen times. A
third, to his own amazement, discovered that toady was a per
fect military tactician. If possible to avoid it, he never ad
vanced directly in front of his prey, for fear of giving alarm,
nor yet followed directly in the rear, for the same reason, but
always endeavored to approach by that military manoeuvre called
& flank movement.
By the interest and amusement thus afforded, both paper and
news, were for more than an hour, forgotten. When our new
and interesting friend had made a hearty supper on some two
hundred flies, he bade us all good-night in a most dignified
manner, and retired to his nook beneath the floor, there to me
ditate, digest, and grow fat for an additional twenty-four hours,
not, however, before he had made fast friends of all present.
Each officer would have felt like drawing his sword at the
slightest indignity offered his toadship.
Do any of our readers still look upon the toad as a nasty,

208 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
ugly, disgusting, and uninteresting reptile, sure it must be they
have never yet feen him catching flies.
An Incident. — Our past month's quietness was slightly
broken into, a few nights since, by the rebels firing into our
shipping and camps from a few batteries of light artillery quietly
brought to the opposite side of the river. Eight or ten of our
men were killed, some wounded, horses mutilated, a small
amount of property destroyed, together with a pretty sudden
waking up of the whole army. So soon as our batteries and
gunboats got fairly to bear upon the intruders, they " skedad
dled." Rumors of wars, new campaigns, marches and battles, are
now rife in camp. Last night some troops were sent out, and
as I write heavy firing is heard in that direction. These
things now give us but little excitement and uneasiness. Hot
as the weather is, all seem desirous for something new to turn
up; — and the heat! — why, to-day it seems more like an oven
than an atmosphere in which for living men to breathe and act.

Harrison's Landing, Va., August 11th, 1862.
Flies. — What a busy, lively time those old Egyptians must
have had, with both house and field swarming with flies.
Whatever comparisons might be instituted between the Egyp
tians and the Secesh, one thing is certain, the banks of the
James river produce flies, as well as those of the Nile. Here
we have flies in regiments, in brigades, in divisions, and in corps,
great armies of flies — big flies and little flies, biting flies and

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 209
sucking flies — wood, field and tent flies — night flies and day
flies — rising up or lying down, going out or coming in, — in all
places and conditions — flies.
Whatever kind of food you get prepared to eat, a hungry
legion of flies is ever ready to lend a helping hand. If put
on your tin plate, from the time you move knife, fork, or spoon
from plate to mouth and back, a ring of the hungry rascals, so
close as to touch each other, has settled around your food, v To
get them away, each one must have a separate touch with your
eating instrument. "Shoo, flies!" rattling on the edge of the
plate with your knife or spoon, or brushing your hand briskly
over them, won't do. Master fly has become too familiar with
camp noises and tumults to be moved by any thing of that sort.
Nothing but force, physically applied, affects him.
There are three species of fly prominent among our tormen
tors. The well-known and gentlemanly house-fly, whose prin
cipal annoyance consists in creeping over the exposed parts of
the body. Another species, quite similar in appearance, though
somewhat smaller and flatter, with wings more expanded, when
at rest, and possessing, in addition, a perfect piercing apparatus
and pump for sucking up blood. This is the kind, so annoy
ing to our domestic animals, and here so abounding and vora
cious, that the army horses and mules are all becoming lean.
The rascals have, also, a hearty relish for human blood. If one
sticks his bill into you, there follows a sudden jump, and a slap
with the hand. If half a dozen at once, there is not only a
jumping and spatting with the hands, but a yell usually accom
panies. A third species abounding, is a large, clumsy, un-
seemingly, blue one. Children call them "Blue bottles."
We are not, however, grumbling, nor making complaints
against our numerous friends, and intimate acquaintances — the
18*

210 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
flies. No doubt, it would be worse for us to live here without
than with them. There is usually a compensation in such sup
posed earthly pests. Their immense multiplication has taken
place since our coming here. Flies, in the different stages of
their existence, are excellent scavangers; and there is an enor
mous amount of offal — disgusting, unhealthy matter — to be de
voured, during such hot weather, and in a camp of so many
thousand men and horses. Hundreds, even thousands, of poor
abused horses and mules die in and around camp. Fatigue
parties are detached to bury these dead animals, who are con
tented with throwing barely sufficient earth over the carcass to
hide it. thus leaving suspicious- looking mounds in all direc
tions. From these, offensive and sickening gases soon begin to
exude, and were the enclosed mass left to the ordinary laws of
putrefaction, the entire summer would pass ere the process were
completed. A much more speedy process is happily at once
put in operation. No sooner do the animals die, than these
various species of fly deposit, on each carcass, at least a hun
dred thousand eggs, or nits. By another day these are all
hatched into life, in the shape of small maggots, which imme
diately commence, most voraciously, to devour the putrefying
mass. In a very few days, and with but comparatively little
stench, all is devoured. When these disgusting creatures have
become full grown, their outer coverings are bursted, and out
come a hundred thousand full-fledged flies, to join the already
enormous' fly army of the James river.
This mighty fly host must also consume daily at least ten
wagon load of camp debris, which would otherwise putrefy and
assist in rendering our position more unhealthy.
Now, dear reader, don't become disgusted, nor pronounce this
fly dissertation out of place. No subject, remember, gives us at

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 211
present, in camp, more feeling interest — secesh not excepted.
Lessons, moreover, of God's wisdom and goodness may be learned
in this, as in all the affairs of life. How nice a balance is given
to all His earthly arrangements; — a seeming compensation for
each supposed evil. When, hereafter, you may chance to feel
sorely annoyed by the flies, don't forget they have been, and
still are great public benefactors.
Religious Influences in Camp. — With us, blessed be
God, they were never more hopeful, more interesting, nor more
seemingly progressive. Our meetings for social worship, held
every evening at dusk, increase in numbers and manifest use
fulness. Now, for more than six months, and in the midst of
all those strange, terrible and fatiguing changes and vicissitudes
through which we have been led, a special and gracious Provi
dence has enabled us regularly to hold these meetings. All
their blessed results can only be reckoned at the judgment bar,
_ as not a few, who have joined in their exercises, have gone
thither. Were there a stated locality for our meeting, we would
be prompted to erect for a motto, as in the place where prayer
is daily offered at noon, in Philadelphia, — " This Prayer-Meet
ing, a Permanent Institution,"- — permanent with us, in camp,
till the end of the war.
An additional element of religious interest was successfully
inaugurated in our regiment, a few Sabbaths since — A bible
class. We hope and trust to have a Bible class in each com
pany. Members of our Christian Association will teach these.
A dozen small reference Bibles are much needed : will our
Christian friends see they are sent? Since coming here — seven
weeks — all the service I perform in our own regiment on Sab
bath, is to preach at sun-down. The moral destitution in many

212
adjoining regiments seemed so great, that, with the full approval
of friends, the day-time of the Sabbath has been spent with
them. On a late Sabbath, though oppressively hot, the Lord
enabled me to preach in four different places, besides our own,
in the evening. And yet, while thousands of strong men are
sinking down under the oppressive influences of camp-life which
surround us, my own health seems to improve. Seldom have I
felt stronger or fitter for the Master's service — hard and con
tinued toil. The wound, or contusion, on my breast, which has
caused me some inconvenience and suffering, for more than
three months, is better, but still far from well. Never felt hap
pier or more content, — endeavoring to perform present duty,
and, without any anxiety whatever, leaving all the future with
God. Here, on the banks of the James river, I erect an Ebe
nezer, and, with a grateful heart, inscribe thereon— ^Hitherto
hath the Lord helped me."
The Army. — Its health does not improve, nor could it, in
our condition and at this season. After over forty days spent
at Harrison's Landing, expectations of immediate movements
fill the camp. Where or for what, we would not now be at
liberty to write, even if known. Jesus reigns.

Yorktown, Va., "i
Wednesday, August 20th, 1862. /
Another Change of Base. — Again have we changed
our base. We have been executing a grand strategic move
ment. It is true, we arc now sixty or seventy miles farther from
Richmond, than when the late important movement commenced.

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 213
Let no doubter, grumbler or caviller, have the hardihood to
call this a skedaddle, retreat, disaster, or in any measure a de
feat. Even the rebels must look upon it as a great scientific
military manoeuvre. Not, as during the strategy from Fair
Oaks, did they fiercely pursue our retiring columns, and at every
turn of the road throw into our ranks showers of roundshot,
shells, minnies; nor had we frequently to turn, as a lion at bay,
and check their operations with much bloodshed. So far as
they were concerned, we left, and have come here unmolested.
Yet has our march been one of no ordinary labor, weariness and
suffering. From Harrison's Landing to our present position,
four, long, toilsome days, and sometimes part of the night were
spent. When, nearly four months ago, we proudly marched
up through the Peninsula, to within five miles of Richmond,
the mud was not unfrequently knee-deep. On our return, in
many places, the dust and loose sand became worked to nearly
the same depth. The springs and brooks of the early season
were dried up. During part of the time, it was impossible for
the men to get water. The dust would often rise around us in
such clouds that one could scarcely discern his messmate, though
within arm's length.
In this most uncomfortable condition, fifteen hours a day
were spent, closely massed together, and slowly trudging along.
During the whole march I walked on foot with the soldiers,
carrying haversack, canteen and blanket; and can thus more
feelingly sympathize with the toilsome drudgery of the men.
Not a few, wholly overcome with heat, dust, lack of water and
»
fatigue, would drop out of ranks, tumble down by the wayside,
and, when a little rested, regain their respective regiments as
best they could.

214 Dust. — Every thing, presently, assumed one color — dust.
It looked as though all were turning to dust. No one had any
change of clothing along; baggage having heen sent in another
direction, and no water to wash even the face when halting late
at night. We have attached to our officers' mess an exceed
ingly clever old contraband, whom we designate Jud. The
same Jud is a thorough Ethiopian, black as an ace of spades.
Jud is able to sport a considerable amount of curly whiskers
and hair. These were soon thoroughly permeated with dust,
as well as the face pretty thickly besprinkled, thus causing Jud
to present a curious semi-comic appearance. At the end of a-
long dusty march, a counsel of war was held upon Jud, and by
a unanimous vote, he was pronounced white — white as any of
the crowd.
Williamsburgh. — Late in the afternoon of Monday, the
18th. we passed through Williamsburgh, and soon over the
bloody battle-ground of May the 5th. The place looked sadly
familiar. Nearly four months of absence had obliterated many
traces of the fierce struggle. Enough still remained too surely
to mark each memorable locality. For a few: moments we stood
upon the place where our friends fell, wounded or dying, and
re-marked the spots where our slain were buried. The moving
column halted not, and we were presently compelled to hasten
on, to regain our place in the moving mass; not, however, with
out the reflection, how little we know of the future, how uncer
tain are human expectations. Had an ancient seer stood in the
highway and prophesied, as our proud army marched on to
wards Richmond, from the battle-field of Williamsburgh, that,
in less than four months it would marcii back over the same

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 215
ground, doubly decimated, weary, dusty and down-cast, such a
prophet would have been laughed to scorn by the mighty host.
Yorktown. — Early on Wednesday morning, the 20th, we
passed through Yorktown, and encamped on the plain east of it
for now the second day. During the siege in April, we were
on the extreme left, by the James river, eight miles south of
the famous old town, and did not, at that time, have an oppor
tunity to see it. Our present visit had, therefore, the more
interest. Historic, classic ground it is — the town is nothing,
less than nothing, and utter vanity. Some dozen miserable,
old, dingy, empty houses, comprise what is called Yorktown.
The location is beautiful, and a most favorable one for shipping,
were there aught to ship from it, or any thing desired to be
shipped thereto. Here, eighty-one years ago, Washington,
with his mimic, Continental army, assisted by a few thousand
French troops, besieged, and captured the lordly Cornwallis;
thus, virtually, securing the independence of the colonies.
Traces of Cornwallis' earth-works, as well as those of the be
sieging army, can still be seen. These, however, were evi
dently as inferior to those lately erected by the rebels, and
M'Clellan's army, as between the comparative numbers of the
ancient and modern armies.
Length of our Army. — Few, without experience or
careful calculation, can form a just conception as to the ex
tent of a large army, say, eighty thousand men, with their mo
dern appendages. This may, perhaps, be best effected by
marking how long it would take for all to pass, in one marching
line, a given point. Our army of the Potomac has attached to

216 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
it, say, two thousand wagons, with six horses or mules to each.
Every wagon, in motion, requires over three rods. This wagon
train, stretched out, would be twenty miles long. The soldiers,
in files of four, with artillery, ambulances and cavalry, would
extend forty additional miles; altogether, sixty miles. Fifteen
miles a day, is a heavy march for such a host. It would, thus,
take the army nearly four days, constantly moving from sun
rise to sundown, to pass a given point. So has it been with
us, in these late retrograde movements. Uncle Sam pays,
clothes, and feeds a large family for killing secesh. And, when
the army is swelled to a million, with all its equipments; what
a line ! Closely compacted, as above, it would extend four
hundred miles, and take a month to pass in review.
Survey of the Peninsula. — One thing has been accom
plished by this five months' campaign. We have given this
Peninsula a thorough survey; every nook, and corner, and in
let, and by-way, save Richmond, has been carefully explored.
Taken all in all, a pretty fine country it is — pretty fairly tilled
out, by two centuries of bad farming — badly needs resettling
by a new race, and with a wholly different cultivation. The
soil has been fattened in very many places by numerous bodies
of men, horses and mules. The survey has not, perhaps, been
a very good money speculation for Uncle Sam; costing him at
least a hundred millions. The old gentleman is, however, re
puted rich.
Notwithstanding the supposed or genuine care to guard the
property of rebels, the Peninsula is left, in a goodly measure,
desolate;- a sad memento of war's desolating influence. Con
cerning the policy of placing sentinels to guard rebel property,

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 217
it is not my province, specially, to write. An incident, in this
connection, took place near the close of our late march, which
occasioned us much sadness. We were encamped near a secesh
corn-field affording good roasting ears. A Lieutenant in our
regiment, without supposing he was about to infringe any law,
either divine, civil or military, sent his colored man to the field
in order to bring some green corn. In the mean time, the Di
vision General had placed a guard around the field; and as the
poor colored man entered, he received a bullet in his head from
the carbine of a sentinel, which, at once and forever, put an
end to his corn-pulling.
Viewed as an unconnected movement, we are all certainly
gratified in getting off from the Peninsula. Our journeyings
and abode thereon, for five months, have not abounded in
any sort of human comfort. Yet, from its reminiscences, all are
sad to leave the sickly place. To take Richmond, we entered
thereon ; and Richmond all expected to take. Notwithstanding
all the fearful exposure, labor, weariness, sickness, sufferings,
deaths, watchings, marches and bloody battles, of the past five
weary months, were the question now asked, Are you willing
to march back and try it again ? — not a soldier, able to wag a
leg, but would at once respond : " Yes, let us be off at once and
at it." The longest road may, in the end, prove the shortest.
Richmond, we are bound to have.
The World Moves in a Circle. — An Old Feat Re
peated. — Having accomplished over again that far-renowned
military achievement, " Marching up the hill, and then marching
down again," we have been allowed a whole week to repose
upon our laurels. Time has been afforded to recken up the
19

218 CAMP, march and battle-field.
profit and loss of our late memorable campaign. Philosophers,
historians, almanac-makers and political economists, assure us
that all things move in circles. Of this, there can now remain
no doubt. The grand army of the Potomac has been moving
in a circle, and, by the force of its own momentum, operating
during the past four months, has been brought back to its
starting place. The generalship which directed so large a body
in successfully completing its circle, deserves some praise. Al
though, we did not smash to pieces every thing, in the way of
our course, during the grand circuit, yet there was evidently
some danger of our suffering such an inconvenience. Being
safely back, our feelings prompt to praise somebody.
The greater part of the grand army has, already, left the
Peninsula. For some prudential military reason, our corps has
been left, for the present, to hold military possession of this
neck of land. We are, daily and nightly, expecting a swoop
down the Peninsula from Stonewall Jackson, or some other am
bitious rebel chieftain. We, nevertheless, eat, sleep and digest,
without any special uneasiness. Our present camp occupies a
most beautiful and healthy location, being some four miles east
from Yorktown, and overlooking the river, which here opens
into a bay. Our boys, of course, are pleased with the new po
sition, and are making the best of it. Sea-bathing, crab-fishing,
and oyster-raking, are now daily amusements. Hourly reports
are put into circulation, to the effect that we are, presently,
again to move; and Madam Rumor has a dozen different locali
ties whither we are about to be' marched, in order to do some
additional fighting. With respect to these changes, I have
become wonderfully indifferent, provided the work for which
we set out can be successfully accomplished. It will be diffi-

PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 219
cult for the future to furnish, either in unpleasant localities,
toils, exposures and battles, an equivalent for the past. With
the poet, we can therefore cheerfully chime :
" Let us then be up and doing,
With a heart for any fate;
Still achieving, still pursuing,
Learn to labor and to wait."

220 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.

CHAPTER VI.
%aMmn—§m §attfow«, 1».
removal of gen. mcclellan.
Arlington Heights, opposite Washington, >
September 4th, 1862. /
" Here we have no continuing city." With unwonted force
has this declaration been impressed upon me during the past
six months. The men of our regiment can erect a habitable
city, and furnish it with all the appliances of a soldier's life, in
less than an hour. Let a sudden order come "to march," and
in less than half an hour, the entire city is demolished, the ma
terials on the backs of the inhabitants, and they trudging off
for some new battle-field, or other locality for the construc
tion of an additional city. So very frequent, of late, have been
these erections and demolishings, that the looker-on must have
been dull of impression not to receive the suggestion, "Here
we have no continuing city." Happy are they in possession of
the assurance, " We seek one to come, which hath foundations,
whose Builder and Maker is God."
Reminiscences of Yorktown.— When closing my last
letter, we were still encamped on the plain of Yorktown, but in
hourly expectation of orders to remove to some other scene of

REMINISCENCES OF YORKTOWN. 221
action. Early on Friday, August 29th, they came, to go up at
once to Yorktown, three miles distant, and embark on transports,
but for what destination, was not revealed.' A short space found
us within and about the chronic old town Shipping agents
not being so prompt in movements, we had, in consequence, the
uncoveted privilege of loitering about the locality all day, and
resting on the sandy shore of the little bay until midnight.
Time had to be killed, and the determination was to do it in
hunting after the histories of the place. We began with an
effort to trace the line of earth-works thrown up by the British
army for their defence, eighty-one years since. These are all
yet distinctly marked; while those made by Washington and
La Fayette, in capturing the place, are almost entirely oblite
rated. The recent defensive works of the rebels and of the
Union army, for the capture, are on a scale so enormous as, in
appearance, to resist the wear of centuries, and to afford to our
children of the twentieth generation an opportunity, while
tracing their extent and magnitude, to moralize on the folly of
their ancestors. The next object of interest was to find the
spot where Cornwallis delivered his sword to Washington, on
the surrender. This, we knew, had erected upon it, some years
since, a memorial by the professed loyalty of Virginia. It con
sisted of a granite base and neat white marble obelisk, at whose
erection speeches, of great swelling words, were delivered. But
for the memorial we searched in vain. Meeting, at length, a
seedy-looking native, he led the way to the spot, and gave an
evidently correct account of its total disappearance. When the
rebels occupied Yorktown, a year ago, they commenced chip
ping off the sharp corners and edges of the granite and marble
to carry away as mementoes, until it was completely defaced.
When tbe Union soldiers came, they fell with picks and hatchets
19®

222 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
at the remaining material, and ceased not until all was gone.
A few scales, the size of a quarter dollar, were found, which,
as my own share, were duly pocketed. The spot is a few hun
dred yards to the south-east of the town, in a commanding po
sition, from which both armies could witness the humbling act
of the lordly Briton, or rather of his representative, as his
lordship either feigned or was actually sick on that interesting
occasion. Our next visit was to the building now occupied as a hospi
tal, and the only substantial one in the place — a solid old Eng
lish house. It is the one occupied by Lord Cornwallis during
the siege. With some medical friends, I had the pleasure of
dining in the room in which his Lordship slept and ate, and in
which his council of war was held when the surrender was de
cided upon.. Washington afterwards, for a time, occupied the
same room. Eighty-one years after, General Magruder made
the room his head-quarters, and in it was held the council of
war, when the evacuation was determined upon, — which event,
in its results, proved to the invading Union army so great a
defeat; for, had the rebels remained in their works at Yorktown
to fight, we would certainly there have beaten them, and then
taken Richmond. The result all know. This celebrated old
room is the only really and fully wainscoted room I have ever
seen. We next strolled away to visit two newly-made burying-
plaees, outside the town. In one we counted, in long rows, the
graves of over three hundred Union soldiers, buried since
March. The graves are all carefully marked. Few of these
died in battle — some from the effects of wounds — yet nearly all
from some fatal disease. About every fourth grave had as a
heading, " Stranger, Army of the Potomac." Sad memorial !

LANDING AT ALEXANDRIA. 223
Died and was buried not only without the presence of a relative
to cheer, but without friend, messmate, or nurse who new the
name. War is cruel ! The place where the rebels buried their
dead, gave evidence of great mortality among them. They had
buried their dead without any respect to order, and scarcely one
was marked, — all seeming strangers in a strange land. The
graves were already so indistinct, I made no effort to count
them. My last effort on that classic plain was, by the assistance of
a young friend, the capturing and bottling in alcohol a number
of new, interesting, and beautiful insects, and pressing in a book
a few novel flowers, to bear with me as memorials. Farewell,
Yorktown !
At even-tide, our religious service was held on the sandy
beach of the beautiful York river, or here, rather a bay. At mid
night, our entire regiment embarked on the steamboat Cossack.
On the afternoon of Saturday, we got under way, and then
learned that our destination was Alexandria. At night-fall we
made the lovely Chesapeake bay vocal with our songs of praise,
from the hurricane-deck of our capacious steamer. Sabbath
morning found us steaming up the Potomac, with a heavy rain
falling. At 10 A. M., had public service in the principal cabin.
At 5 P. M., disembarked at Alexandria, where we were kept
standing in the muddy streets for two hours, during which time
we held our usual evening worship. At dark, our regiment
was started for Centreville, twenty-two miles, and marched all
night, arriving there early on Monday, all indescribably
weary. Our experience on the Peninsula, enabled us to discern at
once that the whole army was on a retreat towards Washington.
But half an hour's rest was allowed, when we were marched

224 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
back seven miles to Fairfax. In the battle near that place,
on the same evening, we did not mingle, but were held as a re
serve. Near night, on Tuesday, we were ordered back towards Wash
ington, and, before day-light, were halted on Arlington Heights,
sad, sore, weary, hungry, and sleepy. Once again, from our po
sition, we gaze on the nation's capital, and sorrowfully realize
that its possession and destruction is again threatened by rebel
traitors. Every thing seems mixed up with us at present. We
hardly know ourselves, much less possess an ability to give cor
rect information about other persons and late events. All mi
litary affairs need changing and re-arranging, which, if the re
bels allow, may be the business of some weeks to come. In the
mean time, when some new place, division, corps, etc., shall be
assigned our regiment, and we get rested, you shall have due
notice. As to the external world, and our friends who dwell therein,
there exists with us a total ignorance, we having received no
mail since leaving Harrison's Landing, August 16th.

Rookville, Md., 16 miles north or Washington, 1
September 10th, 1862. /
Stonewall Jackson. — If marching and countermarching,
assuming new positions, changing base, with multiplied stra
tegy, will suffice to catch those rascally secesh, we'll have them,
certainly, and that soon. Indeed, if reports and positive asser
tions are to be credited, that troublesome fellow, Jackson, has
already been several times cornered, hemmed in, and finally

CAMPAIGN IN MARYLAND. 225
surrendered. The only difficulty, it seems, has been, that the
stupid blockhead either did not know, or knowing, failed to stay
cornered. This rebel General ought to have a straight jacket
put on him; and so our men have voted. The only insignificant
reason why the thing has not already been done is, that,
like the rats, when they unanimously voted a bell for the cat,
its accomplishment was only delayed for lack of an executioner.
The principal reason why we have voted the maniac's jacket
for that raid-making General, is, that he neglects to fight in
accordance with the well-known and approved rules of military
science and strategy of war. Should a seemingly impassable
mountain be on his left; in his front, on his right and rear,
strong lines of his enemy — why, all military science declares
the man ought to surrender. Yet, against all rule, the fellow
passes either under, over, or round the mountain ; not to the
front, where he ought to have gone; but to the rear of his op
ponent: and that, too, without ever giving notice of such an
outlandish movement. Such disorder must be stopped.
Through all manner of changes, we have been marched here
into Maryland, on the east side of the Potomac ; no doubt, in
order to watch its crossings, lest a rebel raid be made into this
much more than half traitor State. True, it is roundly as
serted by many, that it would be the best thing possible, to let
the rebels all cross; and that, should they dare, their utter ruin
would speedily follow — all would soon, either be killed or cap
tured. Very likely; we are so accustomed to catch Jackson.
As to his crossing opposite us, it does seem rather unlikely.
The Virginia banks of the river, are almost precipitous bluffs ;
the waters dash over rocks and through whirlpools; while the
Maryland shore is rugged and steep. Still, our hoys assert
that Jackson might cross. His rabble, say they, might slide

i

226' CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
down the opposite banks on boards, dabble through the spark
ling waters, climbing up the banks nearest to us, by clinging to
the roots and limbs of trees. And their arms ? Why, Jackson
might plant a few big guns on the opposite hills, into which
the field-pieces and small arms might be rammed, shot across,
and gathered up by his ragged and barefoot followers. At all
events, we will try to keep a sharp lookout for Jackson.
Should he, however, succeed in crossing at some other ford of
the Potomac, as we hear he has, and, in due time, march on,
and feast his followers beneath the shade trees in Independ
ence square, and within the hall of the old Capitol — why, don't
get thereat in too great a flurry. It would greatly increase
both the knowledge and experience of our Philadelphia friends
to have a little brush of warfare so near at hand.
Dear old Tennelly. — During our wanderings, and weary
marches, late in the evening, a few days since, we passed
through Tennelly; that homely spot, where we spent, in camp,
six long months; and with which, before leaving, our boys became
so very weary and disgusted. Yet, how wondrously glad they
were all, to behold again the familiar ground, the fields, and
the woods. How they cheered, and shouted, and longed to
stop and build, again, a hasty city on the old camp ground, and
there rest for awhile, their weary, sore, and aching limbs —
there, to talk over the strange and wondrously multiplied events
of their six months' absence. Not even a halt, however, was
allowed, — on, on passed the moving column, and our regiment
must needs keep its place unbroken. I broke, and ran to the
house of an old friend, where we had stored our church-tent
and books; found the table spread, had a hasty cup of coffee,

CAMPAIGN IN MARYLAND. 227
with a slice of good bread and butter,— the first for long, long
months,— then hurriedly walked on, and rejoined my place on
the march.
Camp Caucuses. — Our privates have not only been practising
in the proper use of arms, and skilful modes of fighting, but
nearly all have advanced to a higher sphere, and become earnest
students and discussers of military tactics — criticising old cam
paigns and planning new ones, ordering battles and gaining
victories. Not a day passes in camp without many a group as
sembling, in solemn conclave, in order to review each past cam
paign, gravely to point out supposed defects and causes of
failure, as well as means and sources of success— criticising,
with the greatest freedom, the merits of this, that, or the other
general. Almost every one seems competent, at least in his
own estimation, not only for a captain's commission, but a briga
dier's place. All this belongs to the freedom of American cha
racter. No congressional legislation or military censorship can
strangle or smother such liberty of opinion and discussion. If
let alone, however, they are not only harmless, hut useful.
These free discussions of the masses, always tend to form an
irresistible and generally correct public opinion.
So far as these army caucuses and opinions are understood,
the private soldiers appear to cherish an unbounded confidence
in themselves — able, in their estimation, is the great Union
army to march any where, overcome any obstacles, and conquer
any enemies, however boastful and numerous. This confidence,
however, in the officers, from highest to lowest, is by no means
so general or unbounded. All our reverses are invariably at
tributed, by these democratic caucuses, to defects of skill,.
judgment, bravery or loyalty in the officers. No chieftain has

228 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
evidently yet arisen, who claims the undivided 'confidence and
enthusiasm of the private Boldiers, as did Washington and Na
poleon. This is, no doubt, a happy circumstance, and will
be, should it continue, if without it we be able to struggle or
blunder through the war or crush the rebellion. Or, if we
must have an undivided military chieftain, in order to final suc
cess, the hope and prayer of all should be, that in the last bat
tle fought, and with the last rebel killed, he maybe killed also.
In our present disordered condition, there is imminent danger
of falling under the dictatorship of some military chieftain.
Sutlers. — It is now running into five months since our re
giment has been visited by the paymaster. The Government
seems too busy in paying useless and exorbitant bounties to
lazy, cowardly, new recruits, to give attention to the soldiers
who have fought so many of her battles without bounties. The
little money our soldiers reserved to themselves on the peninsula,
is all gone — " played out," according to camp phrase. Several
happy contingencies have also united almost entirely to play out
our sutlers. The men having no money, and, if the sutler trust,
it is not now so easy for him, as formerly, to collect, by military
law, his extortions. Nearly all these sharks and harpies have,
in consequence, for the present, disappeared. The only too ge
nerally and loudly complained of inconvenience, is Tobacco. Al
though I detest the use of the filthy weed in all its forms, yet
as a lesser evil, it would be rather agreeable to see a decent and
reasonable grocer present himself with half a dozen kegs of
plug, and a few barrels of cut and dry., In less than an hour's
time, my chaplain's work would become very much easier.
Lacking the narcotic influence of the " weed," hundreds have

CAMPAIGN IN MARYLAND. 229
become so irritable, you can hardly persuade them into any
thing reasonable.

Near Great Falls, Md., 1
September 13, 1862. /
Moral Quandary. — Did you ever find yourself in a quan
dary as to the right adjustment of moral questions, which have
arisen for solution ? Cases in which morals and physic, reason
and appetite, judgment and inclination, did not seem fully to
harmonize ? Well, here is a case in hand — one of no ordinary
interest, and, at present, widely extended in its application.
As your correspondent finds himself beclouded in the matter,
you and your readers will much oblige him hy giving it a care
ful attention, accompanied with a just solution.
During the past six months our regiment has been almost
entirely confined to strong, coarse army grub — hard crackers,
salt pork and beef, with coffee, and occasionally rice, beans, and
fresh beef. In consequence of such a diet so long continued,
when the Peninsula was abandoned, scurvy had become quite
common. After long, wearying, and almost bewildering marches,
we were at length halted for a week in Montgomery county,
Md. The neighborhood abounded in apple, pear, and peach
orchards; fruit plenty, ripe, and tempting the hungry, longing
appetite, — also with corn-fields, affording roasting ears in un
measured quantities. Owing to their past diet, and long want
of such things, the appetite of our soldiers had become so in
tense as to appear almost uncontrollable. These, moreover,
were the very things needed to give proper tone to the system,
20

230 CAMP, MARCH, AND BATTLE-FIELD*
by driving away scorbutic affections. As seen in a former let
ter, our boys have been in possession of no money for long
months; scarcely a copper among a hundred. To sell, of such
things, to each soldier, would be altogether impracticable : nor
has the quarter-master the authority to purchase and distribute
them as rations, on the credit of the Government. If taken
without pay, their families, as the owners, no doubt, truthfully
declare, will be left in want and to suffer, at least during the
present season. It must be taken in account, that almost every
family in this half-loyal state, is as good a Unionist as any body
else, so long as their domains are in possession of our troops.
With respect to the moral of taking the fruits and vegeta
bles without pay, under all the conditions, my own inability to
act as an unbiased umpire, has already been hinted. Scenes,
and interlocutories like the following, have not been unfrequent
of late. It may be prefaced, that the young men'of our regi
ment are in every possible way kind and obliging to their chap
lain. One of them, brave and generous from a dozen bloody
battle-fields, lately visited my humble bunk, and after the due
military salutation, says: "Doctor" — you will bear in mind
that a thousand men, officers and privates, have unanimously
voted me a D. D. ; it may, perchance, be another question for
casuistry, whether the diploma of these thousands is of as much
value as that one, voted by half a dozen private citizens in some
dingy, dusty hall of some obscure college, in behalf of some
Rev. gentleman, whom, perhaps, they never knew, save through
twenty or thirty dollars to help on their small, cramped con
cern. But to our subject. " Doctor," says the yoiing veteran,
"will you accept half a dozen beautiful ripe peaches ?" at the same
time producing the delicious- looking and fragrant-smelling fruit. '
"0, what beautiful peaches! Why, where, and how did you

CAMPAIGN IN MARYLAND. 231
obtain them?" With a peculiarly knowing look and tone, as
the peaches are laid beside me, he replies — " Ask no questions,
Doctor, for conscience' sake." Another comes with the saluta
tion — " Doctor, will you accept these two roasting ears? They
are very good, and nicely cooked." "Roasting ears, my dear
young friend, are great favorites with me." And still another —
"Doctor, here is a big, boiled potato; dry, too; see how it
laughs through a dozen cracks in its bursted skin." "Much
obliged; very fond of a good potato."
Though personally I have pulled no roasting ears, shaken no
apple tree, plucked no peaches, nor turned up a single potato
hill, yet will the inferences be irresistible — these things have
been taken and eaten — the owners uncompensated — and in our
camp there may be no impartial judge of the right or wrong in
the matter. Williamsport, Md., Sept. 22d.
The above was written during our few days' quiet, camping
near Great Falls, Potomac; yet before it could be closed or
mailed, orders came to pack up and be off at once. Instead of
allowing us our desired Sabbath exercises, we were hurried
away early on Sabbath, Sept. 14th; since which not an hour's
rest or leisure has been allowed. My portfolio was then folded
in the haversack, and for nine days has not been taken out or
opened. Of course, you received no letter, last week. An in
ference might fairly be drawn that our generals have come to
the conclusion. Our old 13th Regiment has turned into legs, —
it has been leg — leg — leg. Marching through, beyond, about,
to the right and left of all the late battle-fields, in addition to
an unmeasured amount of miscellaneous tramping. Our ban-

232 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
ner might have appropriately inscribed upon it — Flying Dutch
man, or Wandering Jew. Our frequent. change of base,
flank movements, and strategic operations have, however, lent
their aid to drive the marauding rebel army out of Maryland,
whereof we are glad.
An effort to describe, even briefly, our movements for the
past nine days, would be interesting, at least to myself, and
perhaps to your readers, but cannot be now attempted; the re
sult would fill your paper, and much more than exhaust the
brief space now allotted for writing. Another week may afford
a little more leisure, when a few items and incidents from the
late bloody battle-fields of South Mountain and Antietam, may
be furnished. Through these dreadful scenes — all pictured on
the eye, and engraved on the memory — a special and gracious
Providence has safely guided us.
In the mean time we are near Williamsport, where we en
camped for several weeks during our three months' tour in 1861.
The scenes are familiar, and cause us to feel somewhat at home.
Vigor of body, cheery and hopeful spirits, with a sound, and,
we hope, increasing religious influence, characterize our regi
ment.

Downsville, Md., September 30, 1862.
All Quiet along the Potomac. — An old, familiar, boy
ish doggerel, which, at the time, was considered not only as
very expressive, but also as bordering on the sublime, ran
thus : — "I saw a jay-bird on a limb,
He looked at me, and I looked at him."

CAMPAIGN IN MARYLAND. 233
For the past week and more, though on a much more exten
sive scale, the counterpart of this juvenile rhyme has been re-
enacted. • The secesh have been looking at us, and we haye
been looking at them, across the classic and beautiful, though
now almost waterless Potomac. The barbarous custom of picket-
shooting has, in the mean time, been but little practised. Our
sentinels line one side of the river, theirs, the other — and
these often within ready and accurate shooting, even speaking
distance, yet but little saltpetre ignited. The river is so low at
present, that it can be forded in a hundred different places, yet
each sentry seems content to keep his own side. They look at
us, and we look at them.
The great battle of Antietam settled nothing definitely. In
it the rebels were neither repulsed nor defeated, though evi
dently worsted. After the close of the battle, they maintained
their ground for more than twenty-four hours, and then, quietly
withdrew across the river, without an attempt on our part to
follow, or gun fired after them, until clean gone, without leaving
behind them even a baggage wagon. An attempt to follow
them across the river, some days after the battle, resulted to us
in serious disaster.
How long we may thus continue quietly to look at each other,
does not as yet appear — may be, as last year, from September
till April. Ere that, the hope might be cherished that the re
bel army would become thoroughly starved out. Yet this pro
cess,' has already been so frequently tried, and so often as
serted as almost accomplished in the case of these ragamuffins,
that the future of it seems rather problematical ; seeing those
ragged rangers of General Lee still live and are ready to fight.
In the mean time, we are endeavoring to take as much crea
ture comfort, with mental and spiritual enjoyment, out of the
20*

234 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
present lull of arms, as our condition and surroundings will ad
mit. We are encamped in the midst of a fine farming section,
and are hence enabled to increase our table comforts, at no very
exorbitant price, with bread, milk and butter.
Incident of Antietam Battle Field. — For two days af
ter the awful strife of Wednesday, the 17th, our regiment was
posted in the very centre of the great battle-field. A full op
portunity was thus afforded me for looking over that vast Gol
gotha — that modern Aceldama — a real field of blood. It
stretched over an extent of broken ground at least three miles
in length by one and a half in breadth. Over all that wide-
extended territory lay promiscuously scattered the dying and
the dead, friend and foe intermingled — rifles, muskets, bayonets,
scabbards, cartouch-boxes, haversacks — all manner of clothing —
coats, hats, caps, shoes, blankets — stains and pools of blood —
hundreds on hundreds of fine horses mutilated and torn — caissons,
gaddles and harness unstinted and unnumbered. Scenes of car
nage were here multiplied which I had no where seen equalled
or excelled, save on some portions of Malvern Hills, on the pe
ninsula, where heaps of the slain were piled together.
By Friday forenoon, all the wounded, which could readily be
found, had been collected into extemporized hospitals — houses,
barns, sheds, school-houses, churches, etc., or carried away al
together from the battle-field. Scarcely any extended effort had
as yet been made to bury the dead, who, by this time, had become
black, swollen and offensive. On the afternoon of Friday,
while walking through a beautiful open wood, in which, as seen
by the uniforms of the dead, a New York regiment and the re
bels had met in fierce and deadly encounter, I stopped for a
moment to gaze on a group of seven or eight Union and rebel

CAMPAIGN IN MARYLAND. 235
soldiers, lying close together, and all seemingly still in death.
One of these, a rebel, as known by his dress, and in appear
ance about twenty-one years of age, had something about him
more life-like than the others. Interested in his appearance, I
went near and discovered that he was still breathing; felt his
pulse and found it regular and firm. Though so sadly and
strangely familiar with mutilations of every possible form, with
sudden deaths, as well as great tenacity of life, yet did this case
excite not only my deepest curiosity, but downright astonish
ment. Life, for days together, under such conditions, had never
before been witnessed. A union of soul and body for so long,
with sueh a wound, had not been supposed possible. A Minnie
ball had struck the young man on the right temple, just in the
edge ofthe hair, and passed directly through the head, coming out
on the opposite side, nearly in the same position on the left
temple. A hole had heen made through the head sufficiently
large to have pushed the forefinger along the course of the
bullet. The poor fellow was evidently lying in the precise position in
which he fell, three days previously. A handful of brains
had oozed out from the ghastly wound. I called on two men,
in citizen's dress, who at the time were near,' and a straggling
soldier, for help to remove him to an old church or school-house,
not far distant. We spread a blanket, laid him on it, and each
one taking a corner, carried him to the old, waste, lone build
ing, all riddled with shell and ball during the late battle, —
pulled two benches together, took an old broom for a pillow,
and laid him on the hard bed. With water from my canteen,
the blood and gore were washed from his head and face; water
was poured on his parched lips and into his mouth. In a few
minutes he so revived as to be able to speak faintly.

236 CAMP, march and battle-field.
By this time our regiment was in motion, aud lest its course
and future position might be missed, I was compelled hastily to
rejoin it — for in the marchings and countermarchings, the fre
quent changes in position of a hundred thousand men, on and
near a field of battle, should one lose his regiment, he might
readily spend a whole half day in fruitless efforts again to find
it. That night we encamped between Sharpsburgh and the Po
tomac. The next day, Saturday, we were ordered to Williams
port, twelve miles distant, and our way led back across the bat
tle-field. When opposite the old building, I ran aside, while
the column moved on, to look again after the poor young rebel.
Just as left, the previous day, he lay, no one seemingly having
been there. He was still alive, and breathing more freely. At
once recognizing my voice, he answered intelligently a few brief
questions. Notwithstanding an effort to refrain, as his head
and face were again bathed, tears would flow down to mingle
with the water. A piece of hard cracker, the only food at the
time in my haversack, was broken fine, moistened with water,
and put in his mouth, which he tried to eat. In reply to my
question, "Do you think of any thing more I can now do for
you?" his answer was, "Nothing, dear sir." Commending him
to the care of a merciful God, in a few words of prayer, I turned
away and left him, with feelings of indescribable sadness.
War — cruel, unfeeling, relentless, bloody war ! I inquired not
for his name, his home, nor his mother — having no desire to
know them. Little doubt, he would there die, unsoothed, un
aided, unwept. No comforting incident in the case to write to
his mother, if one were living; no cheerful memory for me to
cherish concerning him. I asked not the name of the poor de
luded young stranger, who came there to die so sad, so lonely a
death.

CAMPAIGN IN MARYLAND. 237
Downesville, Md., October 7th, 1862.
Red Tape. — You have, no doubt, heard often and much
concerning red tape in the army. This is, beyond question,
one of our special and peculiar institutions, and has proved it
self worthy of at least a mixed admiration. " But," says one,
" I don't precisely understand the term, nor the thing intended
to be designated thereby." Very probably; as the operation of
red tape requires not only to be seen, but also felt, in order to
fully comprehend its import. Americans, it is well known,
have become rather famous for their facility in coining words in
order to designate any new development of ever-varying huma
nity. The term, Bo'hoys, carries in it a volume of meaning;
Young America, a whole library; and Bunkum, cart-loads of
effective speech-making. All who have read Dickens' " Little
Dorret," will remember, how that inimitable novelist presents
the twists, the turns, the delays, the hinderances, pertaining to
English law and justice, under the designation, " Circumlocu
tion Office." And red tape, no doubt, took its origin from the
usual habit of army officers and employees binding up their
official papers with red tape. A practical illustration may,
perhaps, convey an intelligent conception, not only as to the
mode of operation by red tape, but, also, why the term is so
significant and comprehensive.
After the late great battles, and the rebels all fairly pushed
back across the Potomac into Virginia, it became evident that
our grand army proposed to itself a rest, after such long and
vigorous exercise, with consequent fatigue. Taking advantage
of this lull in the strife of blood, it seeming also the most oppor
tune for the purpose, application was made to the powers that
be, that a brief leave of absence be granted me, for the purpose

238 CAMP, MARCH and battle-field.
of looking after a variety of business matters, and, especially,
for enjoying a short season of social and Christian intercourse
with friends and dear loved ones, after so long and close a con
finement to camp. The request must needs go to M'Clellan's
head-quarters for approval or rejection.
A document was accordingly prepared, in which were duly
set forth in an effective manner, as the writer supposed, the
various reasons which induced the application, and all finished
up with a few flourishes and touches of rhetoric, which were
considered irresistible. According to ¦' red tape," no one is
allowed to carry bis application, in person, to the granting
power. My precious document being ready, it was sen*, think
you, dear reader, direct to the head-quarters of Gen. M'Clellan?
Nothing of the kind. Such a direct course would neither have
been red tape nor circumlocution. As directed by red tape re
gulation, the formal and eloquent document was first carried to
the Adjutant of our regiment, there to be started on its long
routine of red tape towards the head-quarters of the army of
the Potomac.
Our Adjutant — Joe Brown, we call him — being a plain,
blunt, straight-forward, matter-of-fact sort of man, shook his
head ominously, as he took in hand the prepared paper, frankly
stating, that neither the penmanship, nor the size, nor folding of
the sheet, was in proper form for red tape. The presumption
as to penmanship, may have been well founded; else, Mr.
Printer, your typo may be a blockhead; for, in transferring my
letters into print, he not unfrequently produces words of which
your correspondent never dreamed. Our Adjutant, however,
being a warm friend, and very obliging withal, caused the clerk
to transcribe the document in round, bold, well-flourished pen-

CAMPAIGN IN MARYLAND. 239
manship, and upon paper having the proper size for red tape,
folded according to regulation, put into the prescribed en
velope, tied with red tape, and then carried to our regimental
head-quarters for approval .or disapproval.
Our Colonel, by far too open-hearted and generous ever to
refuse a request to a friend, wrote upon the proper folding,
" Approved, and respectfully forwarded," under which his name
and official title were fitly inscribed; had the paper re-folded,
tied with red tape, and carried, by an orderly, to the head
quarters of our brigade. Having acquaintance and some favor
in said locality, our good Brigadier turned a fold of the sheet
and wrote thereon, " Approved, and respectfully forwarded,"
with name and officials underneath. An orderly carried it
thence to division head-quarters.
Its introduction to our Division General, must have been in
an evil hour. No special or favorable influence from the peti
tioner could have preceded the orderly. Some untoward cir
cumstance may, at the time, have vexed the worthy General, or,
perchance, he may have become weary with leaves of absence
requested. Be all these as they may, a new fold of the paper
was made, and the endorsement commenced with that unfortu
nate little bit of Latinized English, " Dis " — " .Disapproved,
but duly forwarded," name and officials being affixed, tied up
with red tape, and. by an orderly, forwarded to corps head
quarters. As the foremost sheep in a flock, when making a leap even
over imaginary obstacles, is almost sure to be followed in the
bound by the next one in the rear, so that ominous " Dis," —
being the first thing seen upon the document at corps head
quarters — no doubt had a preponderating influence in settling
its destiny. A new fold was made, and, thereupon, the fatal

240
endorsement began with, Dis" having underneath both name ,
and official dignity, was re-enveloped, tied with additional red
tape, and, by an orderly, carried on its last stage, to the high
place of the field — head-quarters army of the Potomac. Two
" Dis's," according to human calculation, were likely to pro
duce a negative, and so it unfortunately turned out. Red tape
having thus conveyed the document, eloquent in appeals, to its
final destination, red tape arrested there its farther progress.
Whatever, under other circumstances, might have been its fate,
those unfortunate " Dis's " had, no doubt, a strong negative in
fluence. The last fold on the precious sheet was here made,
and thereon written, " disapproved, and respectfully returned,
by order of General M'Clellan," re-folded, re-enveloped, and
re-bound, with all its accumulation of red tape.
An orderly again took the concern in charge, and conveyed
it back to head-quarters of Corps Commander. His orderly,
carried it down to division head-quarters; his, again, down to
the brigadiers; his, to the regimental, thence to the Adjutant,
and by him, with a grave military salute, to the disappointed
writer. Such, dear reader, is army red tape. The document, now
in the writer's possession, notwithstanding the unfortunate
" Dis," is, nevertheless, esteemed as of much value, having on
it the autographs of so many illustrious officials in regular gra
dation. As a relic, it will be carefully preserved and handed
down to children, accompanied with the injunction that the
next generation gets it, not only as an illustration, but me
mento of Red Tape.
Do not, however, dear reader, allow yourself to cherish the
impression that, from disappointment or any other cause, the
writer has become an enemy to red tape. On the contrary, he

CAMPAIGN IN MARYLAND. 241
is a great admirer thereof. Without red tape, we would have
no effective army. Without numerous bolts of red tape, vari
ous circumlocutions, checks, hinderances, restraints and coer-
cives, the half of our officers, with multitudes of privates,
would be constantly parading away from duty on furloughs and
leaves of absence.
In Camp. — A restraint and constraint is thus upon me, to
remain for the present in camp. In this arrangement I acqui
esce without a murmur, most happy in being still at and in the
Redeemer's work, which appears to progress with us in a very
encouraging manner. In closing up the door to a present leave
of absence, the Master, no doubt, acted best for his own glory
and for good to myself. Had absence for twenty days been
granted, some detriment or hinderance to His work, in camp,
might, in the mean time, have happened. Of Satan's wiles, I
am by no means ignorant. For that Old Serpent, as well as
for those Southern rebels, a greater respect is cherished since
entering upon camp life; he being more cunning and they braver
than was formerly supposed. Rather than be circumvented in
any measure by that old cunning destroyer, I had rather forego
the unspeakable privilege and pleasure of visiting dear friends
and children till the close of the three years, or end of the

Camp near Clear Spring, Md., Oct. 14th, 1862.
Novelty. — One novelty my correspondence from camp at
least possesses— nearly every letter having a different heading,
from some new locality. Our present camp is in the vicinity
21

242

of a comfortable-looking village, numbering some six or eight
hundred inhabitants, and bearing the appellation of Clear Spring,
located on the old national road, leading from Baltimore to
Wheeling. This grand old highway was once the great artery of
trade and travel from the Chesapeake, across the Alleghenies,
to the north-west, ere railroads had advanced the world's speed
to such a rapid rate. Should any one inquire more definitely
concerning our whereabouts, we might be found a short dis
tance from the Potomac, on its left bank, — safe side, — State of
Maryland, near the north-west limit of that broad, beautiful,
rich, fertile, Cumberland Valley, and at the base of a lesser
range of mountains, one of the many spurs of the Appalachian
chain, which renders their south-eastern slope so picturesque
and inviting.
Our Coming Here — This was sudden; it was unexpected;
it was in the night, and also in a heavy rain, with vast quan
tities of mud. The distance from our late encampment to the
present location, is about fourteen miles. Whoever imagines
they could make that distance in the dark, in the rain, and in
the mud, intermingled with sharp, projecting edges of lime
stone rock, carrying, at the same time, upon theii- shoulders,
their house and household stuff, several days' provisions, with
all their fighting implements — all this, and not feel, at halting,
a little weary, even pretty well used up, — just let them come
and take, in company with us, the next move we make under
such conditions.
The Occasion of our Coming. — Raids, for discovery, cu
riosity, conquest, food, or plunder, have been common occur
rences in most countries and all ages. The wandering Tartars,

CAMPAIGN IN MARYLAND. 243
the Goths, the Vandals, and the Huns were impelled to make
frequent inroads for subsistence on the fruitful plains of Eu
rope, and, in so doing, those roving vagabonds took a wise
conceit to make permanent settlements upon her rich acres.
The wild, warlike, half-naked Highlander was wont, during *he
reign of many kings, when becoming more than usually thread
bare and hungry, to descend from his misty hills, and maraud
upon his more thrifty lowland neighbor. Bands of beastly Hot
tentots do not cease to fall upon the plodding and wealthy boors
of Cape Colony, and drive away their herds into inaccessible
Africa. Our red brethren, also, of the North-west, wearying
with the monotony of wigwam life, eating pemmican and veni
son, must needs make an occasional turn-back upon civilized
life, burn a score of villages, and butcher a few hundred old
men, women and children. Have not, therefore, our Southern
friends, whom we call rebels, thus, not only precedent and ex
ample, as well as large inducements from Northern thriftiness,
to make inroads and marauding excursions ? Certainly? But
can it be that a band of those daring, ragged, starving rascals
has been allowed to pass through, the lines of the great Union
army, 4ialf a million strong, — clear to their rear, — dashing
around from town to town at pleasure, and at their leisure, —
see their friends, take what they wished, and return to their
place with comparative impunity ? Well, and, but, neverihe-
less,may be, although, why, yes — but it isn't precisely according
to army regulations to tell such affairs out of camp, and surely
there can be no pleasure or pride to write them.
Rebel Raid to Chambersburg. — Our Confederate neigh
bors, it would seem, not satisfied, as we supposed they should
have been, with their former raid into Maryland, — -their push-

244 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
ing back at South Mountain and Antietam, thence back across
the Potomac into Virginia, and then run away, as we supposed
they should, into the distant recesses of the South, — did make,
a few nights since, an additional and unexpected diversion
back into Maryland. So soon as intelligence of their crossing
was reported in our camp, twelve miles below, though dark and
raining, the old 13th was ready for motion in double-quick
time. Joined by a number of other regiments, with a few
pieces of artillery, away we started. Our chances for over
taking and catching the daring rebels, were certainly not the
most promising, we being all on foot, and tramping through
rain and mud, they about two thousand, as reported, and all
finely mounted, having also from twelve to twenty hours' of a
start. After running till out of wind, and no invaders visible, we
were halted, and having taken possession of several mountain
passes, leading from Pennsylvania through this narrow strip of
Maryland, to fordings on the Potomac. Here we are using
all precaution, having made every necessary arrangement to
entrap and catch the plundering bandits, should they, in this
direction, attempt to retrace their steps into Virginia. Our
success in the catching business may, however, prove no more
remarkable than that of the boy who, having nothing else
to do, and in order to keep him out of mischief, was sent into a
room infested with rats, with strict injunctions to catch them.
After a time the father went to look after the idler, and in
quired of his success. " Hush, hush, dad !" responded the hope
ful, in an under-tone, and with an authoritative wave of the
hand; "getting along first-rate. So soon as I catch this one
and two more, I'll have three."
In what precise direction the invaders have gone, we are as

CAMPAIGN IN MARYLAND. 245
yet wholly uninformed. That the old Keystone State has at
length been invaded, seems not only possible, but altogether
probable. Now for the veteran Home Guards ! Where is Go
vernor Curtin and his famous State Militia ? We are anxiously
waiting, and every hour expecting to hear the thunder of their
artillery mingled with the rattle of their musketry, as the bold
invaders are hastily driven back into Virginia. On tip-toe we
stand, in order to grab them, as they skedaddle along this way.
We do not, however, much expect them to fall into our trap.
"In vain," says Solomon, "is the snare set in sight of any
bird." Nor do we expect to hear aught definite concerning
their daring excursion — what towns they have entered, what
property seized, or what railroads destroyed, until some stray'
Philadelphia or New York paper, a week old, finds its way to
our camp, and gives us some loose and scattered accounts of
their marches and safe arrival back into Virginia.
Death of Captain Van Gorder. — How slow and uncer
tain news from the outer world has of late reached us — may be
learned from a single instance : A few days after the battle of
Manasses, under General Pope, I read in a Philadelphia paper
that Captain J. S. Van Gorder, of the Roundhead regiment, —
one dear to me as the ties of kindred blood, a noble, generous,
Christian nature could render him, — had lost an arm in that
bloody strife. Not being permitted to leave camp, as desired,
to hunt him up- and minister to his need, I at once wrote to
every person and place from whence it was hoped to obtain in
formation as to where he had been removed. Yet no' tidings
came for nearly a month, and when arriving, it was but to an
nounce that he had been dead for nearly two weeks. 0, cruel
war ! how full of uncertainties, anxieties and disappointments !
21.*

246 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
As I stole away from the noise and bustle of the camp, and sat
me down and wept, long, bitterly over the untimely death of
this dear, young relative — son of a dear sister — what flood-tides
of sorrow seemed to well up, flow around, and overwhelm the
soul at the recollection of what countless numbers of families
are already in mourning all over the land — as Rachel for her
children weeping, and refusing to be comforted, because they
are not ! And, when trying to look forward, with anxious,
prayerful, agonizing gaze, into the dark future, in order to dis
cern an end to these sore bereavements and great sorrows, dim
ness comes over the vision, and a melancholy foreboding whis
pers, " The end is not yet." How long, 0 Lord, shall our be
loved land thus continue to be so vast a Golgotha, so great an
Aceldama, so wide-extended a field of blood !

Philemont, Va., Nov. 5th, 1862.
Gordian Knot Cut. — That your readers have not heard
from me for a week or two past, was not occasioned because
we had advanced so far into the enemy's, country that no writ
ten memorials could be sent back; not because your correspon
dent was sick, or in the hands of the Secesh ; nor yet his pen
cil broken, nor his pen dried, with no more themes of interest
from camp-life of which to speak, nor the writer become un
willing to communicate. Well ? You heard, some weeks since,
that, instead of enjoying a visit to his friends, Red Tape kept
an unwilling agent confined to his duties in camp. How, there
fore, he could honorably leave, might have puzzled a head wise
as Solomon's. Classic readers will remember that the skill of

CAMPAIGN IN MARYLAND. 247
certain ancient heathen experimenters succeeded in tying such
a knot, that human ingenuity, after long and varied efforts,
failed to untie. Honor and emolument were at length to be the
reward of him who should unloose the famous cord-binding. A
quite celebrated man-killer, called Alexander, at length came
that way, and with his sword speedily unloosed the puzzle,
and claimed the rewards. So, notwithstanding the meshes
of red tape, the writer, in accordance with strict military law,
has been absent from camp over ten days. In a word, our good
Brigadier cut the red tape, and dismissed an agent on business
for the Brigade.
Our Regiment, after nearly six months' delay, had received
four months' pay. The families of the soldiers greatly needed
the money. Means for transmission seemed both limited and
-Uncertain. This letter-writer was the one fixed upon who must
go to Pittsburg, carry the various packages of money, inquire
after the welfare of dwellers at home; also deliver and carry
back hundreds of friendly messages. Very desirous was he to
go on his own errands, and make his own visits; yet was this
business, with its attendant responsibilities and anxieties, by no
means coveted. The General was appealed to. My duty was,
he said, to go. A pass on business, not leave of absence, was
accordingly furnished. With a large haversack, filled with en
velopes containing in the aggregate about fifteen thousand dol
lars, I was soon without the lines, within the cars at Hagers-
town, and without delay in Pittsburg. My reception there
amounted almost to an ovation. If the gladness to see, and the
blessings showered upon the head of this visitor from camp, did
in many instances secretly mean the money, no disposition was
felt thereat to chide honest human nature.

248 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
Northern Prosperity. — The appearance of things through
Pennsylvania, in Pittsburg, and Philadelphia, was certainly very
^remarkable, strangely gratifying, and, in no ordinary degree,
encouraging. No sooner beyond the lines of the army,~ than all
appearance of war disappeared. The farming interests of the
old Keystone State every where gave marks of unwonted thrifti-
ness. The railroad engines puffed, and snorted, and screamed
in a manner indicating that the track must be cleared for trains
of unusual length, and with more than ordinary burdens. In
the cities, the streets were thronged with such multitudes, as
gave no evidence that Pennsylvania had sent a hundred and
fifty thousand of her stalwart sons to the battle-field. The
noisy peal of ten thousand workshops, the sound of the trowel
and the hammer upon many new structures in process of erec
tion; plethoric warehouses; stores, rich to gorgeousness, and
on the increase, — all giving at least external evidence that this
greatest war of modern times, and supported entirely from the
nation's internal resources, had nevertheless brought with it
universal prosperity to Pennsylvania, and also to all her North
ern sisters. What a marvel is here ! Something new under
the sun! A nation, from internal resources alone, carrying on
for over eighteen months the most gigantic war of modern
times, ever increasing in its magnitude, yet all this while grow
ing richer and more prosperous !
That Bonnet. — And the ladies ! — they never looked more
handsome, never appeared happier, and surely never dressed
finer and more fashionably, — the war, notwithstanding. Having
been so long in camp and on battle-fields, where ladies do not
congregate, no notice, in consequence, could be taken of fashion's
changes. One of these, at first view, not only arrested my

CAMPAIGN IN MARYLAND. 249
marked attention, but also occasioned some amusement — -the
Bonnet — the ladies' new Bonnet. Among my first calls upon
reaching civilized society, was on a family of dear and intimate
friends, where dwelt a young lady of fashion and taste in such
matters. She was out making calls — presently came in. Brief
salutations over, my first question, looking at the head-covering,
was, " Is that the Bonnet?" Instantly comprehending the drift
of the query, and sympathizing with my ignorance, such sup
plies not being among the things furnished to soldiers, with a
graceful waive of the head and peculiar naivete, the reply was,
" This is the Bonnet';" at the same time turning entirely round,
in order to give a full view of the wonderful structure. Milli
ners are certainly great characters, and in consequence receive
great patronage. Great are they both at invention and in exe
cution. Were they in the army, promotion for them would be
speedy and honorable. The skill which conceived and executed
that bonnet, with its high and gracefully projecting scoop, or
swoop, or curve, or may be Hogarth's line of beauty, in con
nection with its base of showy flowers resting upon the fore
head, — could project and build a machine which would speedily
blow the rebels as high as a kite.
Back to Camp — in Motion. — Getting back to Hagerstown
on the evening of October the 30th, where my horse had been
left, it was there ascertained that our Regiment, with its Division
which was camped at Hancock when leaving, forty miles above
Harper's Ferry, had moved down again to Clear Spring, then
to Williamsport, and thence to Downsville. Setting out for the
latter place, eight miles from Hagerstown, on the afternoon of
the 31st, it was soon ascertained that the Division had moved
the same morning, at daybreak, for some point on the Potomac

250 camp, march and battle-field.
below Harper's Ferry. Unable to overtake it that night, shelter
was found in a Maryland farm-house; and the Regiment re
joined early next morning — all again in motion. Hailed cor
dially by friends, and glad to be back. Eventide found us en
camped at Berlin, a small town on the Maryland side of the Po
tomac, eight miles below Harper's Ferry. Here we made the
banks of the old classic river vocal with our evening songs of
praise. Contrary to our expectation, the same camp was held
over the Sabbath; whereat we are glad. Notwithstanding the
busy preparation for a speedy onward movement, a good time
was had on that day appointed for rest, -both in public and
social worship.
Monday noon, all in motion, and a stream of Hving men
tramping across a pontoon-bridge, once more invading Dixie.
A pontoon-bridge is made by anchoring long, narrow boats up
and down the stream, and near to each other, on which heavy
planks are laid, thus affording a safe and convenient crossing for
men and wagons. During the afternoon a rapid march was
made of some dozen miles. Leesburg was on our left, with the
ranges of mountains to the south-east of the Shenandoah on our
right. Early Tuesday morning our rapid march was resumed;
and, after making an additional twelve miles in the same gene
ral direction — south-west — we were encamped in a rich and
beautiful section of country, which, from its appearance, had
not hitherto been visited by the ravages of war. Being under
orders to anarch at a moment's notice, we, however, linger as I
write, this forenoon of Wednesday, November 5th. Occasional
and heavy cannonading is heard far in our front. When, whi
ther, and to what we move, time will develop.

CAMPAIGN IN MARYLAND. 251
Camp near Baltimore, 1
Fauquier Co., Va,, Nov. 13th, 1862. j
In Dixie. — Since my last, about a week since, we have been
marching and stopping, camping and moving — slowly, but we
trust surely, advancing once again in the heart of Dixie.
Skirmishing has taken place almost every day with the advance
of our columns; yet nothing, which, with our numerical
strength and past experience, could be called a battle. The
rebels are evidently at their old and hitherto successful policy —
good generalship in all ages — when hardly pressed, falling
back; far back, thus compelling our army, if a battle be had,
to follow them. In doing which, its strength must, at each
successive advance, be in some measure diminished; as a suffi
cient force must needs be left, to guard each road and station
in the rear; while each successive mile of advance, renders the
labor of adequately supplying such a host more difficult. When
and where the rebels may eventually stop again to give battle —
for fight they will — how far we shall advance at present, or
whether further this fall; where and how the winter may be
spent; are questions frequently asked at present; "yet allso
seemingly indefinite, that each one gives his own, and usually a
different solution.
Removal of Gen. McClellan. — The great event of the
present time, in camp, is, the unexpected superseding of Gen.
McClellan, by Gen. Burnside. It is an event of such present
magnitude, as will no doubt cause intense effervescence in the
already heated caldrons of Northern politics. Nor is it possi
ble, during a few months' military service, so effectually to
mould over American Volunteers into mere machines, as to

252 CAMP, march and battle-field.
prevent them from discussing politics ; civil and military affairs;
the merits of this or that General, in camp. Heated discus
sions, amOng both officers and privates, are in consequence to
be expected over this measure. Concerning the propriety, the
policy, the justness, or the necessity for the present removal of
Gen. McClellan, from his high command, it would he impossi
ble for me, at present, to write with any intelligence; having
in possession none of the reasons inducing such a change.
From all the precedents of our Executive, before us, this may
be asserted, with the fullest confidence : reasons existed, in the
mind of the President, fully demanding the change, else it had
not been made under the circumstances. Great pity,' since
the thing has at length been accomplished, it had not been done
long ago.
No Detriment Feared. — No serious results need be ap
prehended from the present condition of things. Free discus
sion has ever been our national boast, and, no doubt, in some
measure, our safety. The preservation of our liberties, con
sists, also, to some degree, in the fact that our civil rulers are
changed so frequently. For any party, when defeated in an elec
tion, to say : "We'll not have this man to rule over us," becomes
both treason and rebellion; of which the Southern States are
now guilty, and against which assumption we have so long been
fighting. Should our civil rulers, through the influence of
party, adopt measures injurious to the public good, or obnoxious
to the general sentiment of the community, — their tenure of
office is usually so short that, without revolution or great detri
ment, they can soon be voted out of power.

CAMPAIGN IN MARYLAND. 253
Changes Necessary. — Changes among military rulers may
become as necessary as with those that are merely civil; and
where made, whether all interested approve or not, it would
be treason, rebellion, mutiny, especially with the soldier, to say,
"I'll not fight save under the general and officers I choose to
like." It is matter for sincere gratitude we have still a civil
ruler — commander-in-chief of our army and navy — with firmness
sufficient, when his judgment dictates, to displace subordinates, •
however popular. For the ultimate crushing out of this rebel
lion, a restored Union, and the satisfactory settlement of diffi
cult and conflicting theories and problems in civil government,
on a more permanent basis, we have but few fears or misgivings.
None should forget that we live in revolutionary times. All
things are moving rapidly. Men and measures are hence often
speedily changed. He who is the idol of the people to- day,
may be among the least esteemed to-morrow. The unknown at
present, may be famous in an hour. No special regrets may
be whined over such a condition of things. Good and evil are
still sadly commingled both in our civil and military affairs.
Whether we desire it or not, the Lord is shaking, and sifting,
and overturning; and may He continue to turn things upside
down, until the right men fill all places of authority, whether in
civil or military life, until righteousness every where prevails,
and, in consequence, a permanent peace, — until He whose right
it is to reign, shall have undisputed dominion over this and all
lands. The above thoughts, on the removal of General McClellan, were
penned at the time in camp, and in the midst of many and fierce mur-
murings from both officers and privates. Two years have now elapsed,
and neither disposition nor necessity exists to alter a single sentence
22

254 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
then written. Time and developments have fully justified the thoughts
then uttered. Our Executive has also, long since, been vindicated in
the removal of Little Mac, and our officers and privates reconciled to
the same.

BURNSIDE'S CAMPAIGN. 255

CHAPTER VII.
Camp near Stafford Court House, Va. 1
Nov. 18, 1862. /
Sabbath Desecration. — In camp near New Baltimore,
Fauquier Co., from which place my last was dated, we remained
quietly from Sabbath to Sabbath. On the Lord's day we ar
rived there, and pitched our tents. It was seemingly meet,
therefore, according to military programme, that we should
leave on the same day set apart by its Maker for religious rest.
While making arrangements the day previously for Sabbath ex
ercises, the members of our Christian Association united in say
ing, "We'll of course leave to-morrow." And so it happened,
accordingly. On Saturday night, orders came to be ready for
marching by six o'clock next morning. We were off at dawn,
and after making a long, long, weary march, were only halted
when darkness gathered thick around us. Commentators differ
somewhat as to the precise distance of a Sabbath day's journey
among the Jews. Granting to it the longest accredited mea
sure, there can be no dispute ; but had we been in communion
with those righteous old Pharisees, we, with all our generals,
would speedily have been turned out of the Synagogue.
The Devil as a Tactician. — We would not charge upon
our commanding officers, who plan campaigns, that they pur-

256
posely arrange for military operations to be resumed upon the
Sabbath, in preference to any other day of the week. Certain
is it, however, that oftentimes we have more services of a purely
military kind to perform on it than upon other days. Knowing
that the devil is a philosopher, as well as a consummate military
chieftain, the matter may be accounted for as follows. This
subtile and very notable deviser, Satan, on Friday or Saturday,
starts the secesh on some new enterprise, which generally re
sults in putting us in motion by Sabbath. Sure it is, we have
no Sabbath in camp — nothing to distinguish it from any other
day of the week any more than in India or China, save, per
haps, a few additional hours' service occupied by inspections, to
gether with their necessary preparatives. The leading sympa
thies and influences from officers, both high and low, seem to
be against the Sabbath. They neither attend, nor encourage
attendance, upon religious services, when attempted in the re
spective regiments. Exceptions to this are few — hence the
more honorable.
Religion in Camp. — Those dear Christian friends at home,
who have been longing and praying for the advancement of
Christ's kingdom in the army, must not overlook the fact, while
expecting an answer to their petitions, that it is altogether and
constantly an up-hill business to accomplish any thing for Jesus
in the camp. Even to maintain, among those who professed to
love the Redeemer when volunteering, any evidences of piety,
requires constant watchfulness and continued effort. Our Mis
sionaries write, and no doubt with crushing truthfulness, not
only of the deadening influences of Heathenism, but of the con
sequent difficulties of introducing the gospel. But what are
the abominations of savages and heathens compared with the

burnside's campaign. 257
wickedness of our army? Each one, out of a great majority
of our armies, knows and practises daily more wickedness than
a hundred of the worst Hindoos in India. They tremble at an
oath, and would shudder to take the name of an idol god in
vain — profanity is the vulgar tongue of our camps. How a
righteous God can give success, in arms, to such masses of pol
lution seems difficult to comprehend.
Having over eighteen months' experience of this, no Sabbath
influence, deadening tendencies, and demoralizing sympathies,
in this unnatural condition of life, to crowd out the gospel,
efforts are still continued, and by the blessing of God, crowned
with success, to maintain religious services of some 'kind each
day. Every evening, during the past eight months, unless
prevented by storm or military service, has a meeting been held
in our regiment for the worship of God. No abatement, either
in numbers or influence is yet manifest, but an evident increase
in both. My practice is to preach, address, or lecture briefly,
at the opening of each meeting; then a voluntary service ; each
one desiring, engages in speaking, singing or prayer. On Sab
bath evening, we have always regular public service. My cus
tom at present is, to lecture, on some evening during the week,
upon a selected passage of Scripture, which portion constitutes
the lesson for our Bible classes on the following Sabbath. A
practice which, from its apparent good with us, can be com
mended to the attention of all pastors.
Soldier's Gifts. — Although discarding the idea of organi
zing a distinct Church in camp, yet through the operation of our
Christian Association, does continued and varied experience
prompt us to introduce, so far as possible, all the active appliances
of a well-organized congregation. Some time since, it was pro
posed to raise a collection for benevolent purposes. This was
22*

258
done, one evening last week, and the collection amounted to over
eighty dollars. The proceeds have not yet been distributed,
but, by arrangement, are to be devoted to such objects as all
can agree upon, such as the American Bible Society. Various
other liberal contributions have also been made, during the
past season, by the regiment. For a widow whose son, a mem
ber of our regiment, was killed at thej)attle of Fair Oaks, one
hundred and fifty dollars were contributed; for another, forty;
and for a widow whose husband was killed in the same battle,
fifty dollars have just been raised. These do credit both to the
heads and hearts of the donors. Should its mention here be
accounted' boasting, no fault will be found thereat. One object
in writing thereof is, to stir up others to love and good works;
and, also that an assurance may be cherished by the reader,
that benevolence, as well as other Christian graces, may live
and grow in the uncongenial soil of camp-life.
A Long March. — Although our recent march was com
menced, yet was it by no means ended on the Sabbath. Mon
day found us early on the road, and halting time late in the
evening. Tuesday (to-day) off at dawn, with a rapid march
till past noon. No military seere.t will probably be revealed by
telling where we are now encamped; and, as I write leaning
against a tree, in the afternoon, the number of troops coming
here not being given, and the object not known. War is a
great prompter to the study of geography. If the reader will
take a map of Virginia, and look at Warrenton, near from
where we started on Sabbath morning, and where we are now
encamped, Tuesday afternoon, near Stafford Court House, and
adjacent to the rail-road from Acquia creek to Fredericksburg,
some estimation can be formed of the distance which the old
13th, now 102d regiment, have trudged in two days and a half.

burnside's campaign. 259
My own locomotion during this long march has been peculiarly
felicitous. During many, long, wearying tramps, the past
Summer, my manner was, to go on foot with the boys. While
yet in Maryland, a month and more ago, a good horse was pur
chased, in order to take matters more easily. No sooner, how
ever, were we across into Virginia, than Satan afflicted me,
through the horse, by giving the animal a very sore foot.
This need not be marvelled at, seeing he gave many sore boils
to good old Job. The long march was made, personally, as
formerly, on foot, accompanied with much additional weariness
from leading and coaxing the poor animal after me.
The Country. — From the neighborhood of Warrenton and
Manasses Junction to Fredericksburg, the region is less hilly
than was supposed; being no more than what is usually termed
undulating. The soil thin, but, kindly and evidently, capable
of ready and great improvement under skilful and industrious
farming. Iron ore, of the richest quality, cropped out in many
places over which we marched. Broken fragments of quartz
rock lie scattered over the ground every where; thus indicating
a primitive formation, and gold bearing region. In various
places, through this section, gold has been found, and efforts at
crushing the quartz made ; but, not proving very remunerative,
were generally abandoned previously to the rebellion — wholly,
now. Where we last encamped, was a stone-quarry, from which,
we were told, were drawn some of the material for the new
Capitol in Washington. So many are the elements of national
wealth, in this region lying along the Potomac, and also so
near our nation's seat of Government.
Timber. — Timber, is neither abundant nor good. Scrubby

260 CAMP, march and battle-field.
pine and red cedar predominating; though, on the flats, and
along the water-courses, various species of oak and hickory,.
with walnut, ash, etc., grow to fair proportions. Every where
the chinkapin, a dwarfish, brambly species of chestnut, abounds.
It bears a bur and nut similar, though much smaller, to that of
our magnificent chestnut trees, of Pennsylvania. Persimmon
trees are also numerous through all the old fields, along the
fence-courses, and, occasionally, in the woods. Nearly all, in
our course, were covered with fruit, rich in appearance as the
orange. For any that may be ignorant of this celebrated
Southern tree, with its fruit, a brief description is here ap
pended. The tree, when growing in the open field, assumes a
very pleasing shape to the eye. It grows to the height of
thirty, forty, or even fifty feet. The fruit grows to the size of
a small apple, and quite as plentifully on the branches, as on
that best of fruit-bearing trees. It is a stone-bearing fruit;
several kernels, like those of a cherry, being in each. Before
ripening, the fruit, like the apple, is deep green; and if, in this
condition, one be chewed, so astringent are they, that, despite
all efforts to the contrary, the mouth, presently, assumes the
shape of one when about to whistle. They do not, thoroughly,
ripen until after a number of heavy frosts; after which, they
become soft and pulpy, and turn in color to a rich yellow.
Unlike most other fruits, when ripe, they still adhere to the
limbs with such tenacity that no amount of shaking will sepa
rate. All the leaves have now fallen off the trees, and the
limbs still hanging full of those gold-colored persimmons, cause
them to have a beautiful and picturesque appearance. In the
absence, it may be, of all other fruit, we consider them really
very palatable. The soldiers run after them with great avidi-

burnside's campaign. 261
ty, scramble up the trees and break off the branches, or, too
often take a quicker yet vandal plan — cut them down.
A common wild grape, also, much abounds through the
woods. The pods still adhere to the vines; and, although the
berries are somewhat dried with the frosts and sun, are pleasant
to the taste. These, also, the soldiers gather and voraciously
devour. Any thing, indeed, is eagerly sought after, which may
divert the palate for a short time from its routine of grub,
grub, grub; coffee and crackers, with salt pork or beef.
Farming. — The farming interests of the section under re
view, appears wretched in the extreme. Evidently, the old
dilapidated farms had beeri pretty fairly tilled out before the
opening of the rebellion; and, wherever the contending armies
have gone, the desolation has become almost complete. Fences
burned, and fields thrown into commons. Very few horses,
cattle, sheep, hogs or fowls, are to be found; and, wherever
discovered, they are at once appropriated by our straggling sol
diers. Once or twice I saw our soldiers catch some turkeys
and chickens, and then offer the wretched-looking owners a fair
price in good Federal money, greenbacks or postage currency.
In every instance they were utterly refused, with the assertion,
" Such money was worth nothing whatever." So ignorant and
infatuated are those poor rebels. The soldiers, of course, took
the turkeys and chickens along. Many of the old farm-houses
are tenantless. What has become of the miserable owners
seams an utter puzzle to undertand. The families which have
remained, and by whose sorry-looking tenements our columns
passed, peered out at us with timid and sinister looks. With
some of them I conversed, and would still ask the question,
" How do you expect to get through the coming winter ?" The

262 CAMP, MARCH AND battle-field.
men were sullen as baited bulls. The women, gazing at me
with looks, in which were commingled fear, rage and sadness,
would generally answer, " The Lord only knows!" The Lord,
certainly, does know; and, unless He interpose, many of them
will surely perish. Righteous art Thou, in all Thy ways, 0
Lord. The towering pride of old Virginia, is being fearfully
humbled. Some slave-women and children were seen gazing cu
riously upon our grand cavalcade. But two or three able-bodied
colored men did I see in two days' march. One of these was-
accosted by a soldier from our regiment, " Wouldn't you like
to go along, and have a gun ?" His voice seemed to tremble,
as he answered, " 0, I couldn't leave de pore children !" Poor
fellow, the ties which bound him to his children, were stronger
than his evident desire for freedom. His redemption, however,
draweth nigh.

Mouth of Acquia Creek, on Potomac, 1
Nov. 25th, 1862. j
More Sabbath-Breaking. — In our camp, from which
my last was dated — near Stafford Court House — we remained
quietly from Tuesday noon till Sabbath morning. No orders
had come for any additional movements at the time of our usual
worship, Saturday evening. We then made one more definite
arrangement for various Sabbath exercises. At the same time,
a number of our young men spoke out and said: "No doubt
we shall move to-morrow; seeing it will be Sabbath." We,
nevertheless, went to sleep under the hopeful impression, that,
for once at least, both the boys and Satan would be deceived.
Not so, however. At midnight orders came for our regiment

burnside's CAMPAIGN. 263
alone, out of the division, to move down early on Sabbath
morning to the mouth of Acquia Creek, on the Potomac — ten
miles from our then encampment.
The sacred day of rest was, of course, entirely consumed in
this movement. When arriving on the banks of this beautiful,
and now more than ever, classic Potomac, a heavy, chilling
wind was blowing. A city had to be built to shelter the men
from the frosty air. By the time this was accomplished it was
after dark; the Sabbath all occupied in military service. Not
content to sleep without an attempt to worship; a number of
the more zealous gathered a brush pile, and made a cheerful fire,
around which the brethren gathered, and to whom I preached
briefly from the words, "Prepare to meet thy God."
Clever, well-meaning Uncle Abe has issued a proclamation
for the better observance of the Sabbath, and a restraint of
wickedness in the army. Intentions good, no "doubt, yet is the
language of the President's manifesto so entirely indefinite that
scarcely the least attention is likely to be given thereto. Com
mon law will not answer in the army. Its officers and privates,
as a whole, are entirely too wicked to be much influenced by
well meant generalities in Presidential Proclamations, or vague
and powerless Congressional enactments, as to morality. In
order to meet the case, all want positive enactments, as God
gave to ancient Israel, with specific penalties, surely to be
executed for each violation.
Acquia Creek — knowing ones pronounce it by placing a
strong accent upon the second syllable — is a small stream
emptying itself into the Potomac on the Virginia side, about
forty miles below Washington. It became somewhat famous,
during last winter, as the place where the rebels erected a num-

264 CAMP, MARCH and battle-field.
ber of batteries, and, for a series of months, kept the Potomac
pretty effectually blockaded, thus cutting off nearly all water
communication with the Capital. A railroad fifteen miles in
length, connects this point with Fredericksburg; and thence to
Richmond, sixty miles farther. This route has of late years
become quite a favorite one for travellers from North to South,
going down in steamboats from Washington to Acquia Creek.
This railroad was in the possession of our troops when Gen.
Burnside came from North Carolina last summer to co-operate
with Gen. Pope, and landed his troops at this point. After
wards, when directed to abandon this region and join General
Pope, then near Culpepper, Burnside ordered every thing to be
destroyed which might in any way aid the military operations
of the rebels. The railroad pier, extending far out into the
river, the temporary buildings on the wharf, together with the
cars, the engines, and the bridges along the road, were all burnt,
and the track itself torn up.
Two weeks since, when Burnside,~now Commander-in-Chief,
marched from Warrenton to the neighborhood of Fredericks
burg, by Acquia Creek, and the ruined railroad presented the
only feasible route along which to convey provisions in quanti
ties sufficient for such a host. Modern skill, energy, and speed
in construction, are truly marvellous. Fifteen days ago, this
railroad was, as seen, an utter desolation; yet for seven days
past have trains of cars been carrying along it, and distributing
to the various camps, within reach, enormous quantities of beef,
pork, crackers, oats, corn, and hay, together with every variety
of army supplies. The engineer corps of the army had mate
rials brought from a distance, and re-constructed the long dock,
erected temporary depots, re-built the bridges, re-laid the track,
brought four large engines from the North, with a sufficient

burnside's campaign. 265
number of cars, got them on the track, and in running order —
all within a week.
So soon as work was commenced at Acquia Creek, our regi
ment was detached, and sent to that locality, with instructions
to take a general military supervision of the place and its con
nections; to brush away any marauding secesh, who might
chance to interfere, to guard the railroad, and protect public
property. The place is one naturally of much beauty. Here
the graceful Potomac opens out to nearly a mile in width; the
expanded mouth of Acquia Creek, the banks of more than ordi
nary height, and these formed into high mounds or peaks ; and
the river at present covered with vessels of every description —
all contribute to render the place quite attractive. Yet, strange
to relate, not a solitary house is within sight. Nor does it ap
pear that any have lately been destroyed by the ravages of war.
When Virginia becomes regenerated, as she will after the war,
a beautiful and thriving town will soon rise here.
A New City Built. — As the service upon which we were
sent must, from present appearance, be required all winter, our
boys took it into their heads, and quite naturally, too, that this
was to be their location, and these their duties for months to
come. Our camp-ground was on an open space fronting the river.
Plans were speedily set on foot for building winter quarters.
The rebel regiments, which spent last winter here, had, as they
are wont to do, built themselves very comfortable and conve
nient habitations — log houses, shingled roofs, floors, windows,
and brick chimneys. These, however, were not in a location to
suit our present purpose. In order to avoid the range of the
gun-boats from the river, their quarters had been built nearly a
mile back behind the hills. The materials of these, now desolate
23

266
rebel structures, seemed the most inviting within reach for the
erection of a new city close by the river. Away went our boys,
in long files, like ants to a sugar drawer, and, without compunc
tion, long rows of secesh cabins were torn down, and carried,
piecemeal, that long distance upon their shoulders. While some
carried, others builded. Busy as beavers did they thus labor
for a whole week, working often far into the night. Scarcely
did a more active or enlivening scene meet the gaze of the asto
nished .ZEnes as he peered over the hill at Dido's Phoenician
colony. By Saturday last the new city was well-nigh completed. And,
certainly, a curious, interesting, and somewhat grotesque ap
pearance it presented. Scarcely any two structures in the whole
category resembled each other; some, even, were without re
semblance. Each man, or squad, built his house according to
his material, his fancy, or, perhaps, his conceptions of conve
nience and beauty — all manifesting in their operations an un
trammelled democracy. Some of them were really neat and
tasteful externally, and very comfortable within. Others were
sorry, shabby concerns; while others, again, seemed entirely
shapeless. There does seem to be in the human mind some
faint conceptions of the beautiful with respect both to modes of
dress and shapes of buildings. With many, moreover, there
exists a cherished belief that in each of these there is perfection
ultimately to be reached. Surely, however, from the many out
landish fashions, with their comfortless buildings all over the
country, perfection is still far off.
Scientific Chimney. — In the meantime, your correspondent
remained content with his little, old, wedge tent. But as the
nights were somewhat cold, and the winds along the river, chilly,

burnside's command. 267
it came into his mind to construct, and that on purely scientific
principles, a flue, which, when made according to true science,
should have a draft, that would draw out, not only all the smoke,
but with it also every unhealthy vapor. From the centre of
the ground-floor a small trench was dug to the outside, and co
vered, leaving both ends open. When completed, a fire, made
from pine knots rich with tar and turpentine, was put in the
opening inside. As much smoke would be evolved, a grand
success was in consequence about to be exhibited. The cur
rents of air most unfortunately, however, seemed at the time to
have taken some dudgeon at science, as they persisted in draw
ing the smoke the wrong way. The little tent was presently
filled with a dense cloud. My hat was seized, and with great
vigor fanned across the opening, under the vain impression,
that, should the smoke but onco get a start in the right direc
tion, it could not fail so to continue. It not only refused, but
lifted itself around me in still thicker volumes. Fairly beaten,
and with closed and smarting eyes, the tent was speedily aban
doned. Seated on the ground at a respectful distance, and with
some disappointment, the smoke was watched as it rolled out
from the opening in the canvass, curled up in thick and grace
ful wreaths. The vexation was not so much at the present
prospective lack of fire, but that professional science should be
thus so set at naught.
A City Burnt. — On Sabbath afternoon, two dilapidated re
giments from New York were sent down to take our place, and
we ordered back to our brigade — for the reason, no doubt, that
such an effective regiment as the old 13th, could not be spared
from active field service. Our boys, in consequence, felt a lit
tle disappointment in not being allowed to inhabit, even for a

268 camp, march and battle-field.
few days, the city they had, with so much labor, built. This
feeling was also aggravated, by various squads of the new
comers passing along the streets, and boasting, so as to be heard,
what fine winter-quarters our regiment had built for them.
When the city was about being abandoned early on Monday
morning, by some untoward accident, in the haste of prepara
tion for starting, flames were seen to burst out from a number
of the newly-built houses. Nearly all the material being sea
soned, the weather for some days dry, the city, like ancient Je
rusalem, compactly built together, a breeze at the time blowing;
and, as a result, the entire city was in a few minutes in flames.
Grand was the conflagration, and worthy of an artist's pencil.

Camp, St. George's County, Virginia, 1
December 10th, 1862. /
Two Famous Characters. — As chroniclers of great bat
tles are wont to say, "It would be impossible to mention by
name all who have distinguished themselves," so neither, as you
will bear me witness, has there been any attempt, in my nume
rous letters from camp, to mention individuals by name who
have done honor to the service. In so doing a large list must
be made, as almost every name would press for insertion.
There are, however, two characters attached to our regiment,
whose long, brave, constant, uninterrupted manly bearing, it
might seem invidious longer to pass over in silence. Volun
teering into the regiment at its first organization, now nineteen
long months, — during all that time, they have shown no ten
dency to desert, nor even asked for a furlough or leave of ab-

burnside's campaign. 269
sence. They have never been off duty; never missed a roll-
call; never offered a complaint; never have seemed to doubt of
ultimate success ; always cheery and ready to lend a helping
hand at any difficult service. Far different, also, from many
in their respective companies, they have never yet so far dis
graced themselves, as to violate the law of God, wholesome army
regulations, together with all rules of decency and gentlemanly
bearing, by uttering a vulgarity, swearing, a profane oath, play
ing cards or. getting drunk. Their characters, it may be truly
said, are now known and read of all. But who, who are they?
Let us hear the names of such true gentlemen and model cha
racters, such brave soldiers and unbending patriots : — Two
Dogs.
Smile, reader, if you will; but don't snarl or turn up the
nose. These two characters are far more worthy to have an
honorable chronicle, than many a biped with whom they asso
ciate. Although the truth of Master Dick's song is familiar to
each ragged urchin in every city, village, and hamlet in the
land, — "That in that town a dog was found,
As many dogs there be,
Both puppy, mongrel, whelp and hound,
And curs of low degree."
True, it may not be possible to say of either as of one brought
into fame by Caledonia's bard : —
" His hair, his size, his mouth, his lugs,
Showed he was none o' Scotland's dogs, .
But whalpit some where far abroad,
Where sailors gang to fish for cod."
23*

270 camp, march and battle-field.
Yet are they none of your ordinary whelps or curs, though to
the manor born, and without name or fame. By native strength
of character, and living in revolutionary times, they have raised
themselves above the common swarm of mongrels. As the bio
graphy of many a Brigadier should, in charitable silence, be
brief, so of our two heroes nothing shall be written until fairly
usherediupon the stage of active military life.
Once, upon a dark night, in the city of Pittsburg, the Nia
gara fire-engine was being boisterously hurried along a narrow
street, in order to extinguish some rising flame or imagined
combustion. Out of a dark alley came a young puppy, evidently
much alarmed at the clamor, and by his vigorous barking,
seeming vainly to imagine he could put a stop to such a noisy
tumult. A rather natural result followed. The engine ran
over puppy's leg and broke it. Though noisy, and sometimes
charged with rowdyism, yet are members of fire companies not
devoid of kindly sympathies. The loud howlings of puppy over
his injury, soon brought one of the boys to his relief, by whom
he was carried to the engine-house, and the leg splintered,
which in time healed. Puppy soon became a favorite with the
boys, got Jack as a cognomon, grew up beside the engine, and
eventually became a large, fine-looking, tri-colored mastiff.
Jack was always in high glee when the fire-bell sounded, ran
with the shouting company, and rendered all the assistance
possible. Ere long the times changed. The rebellion broke out, and
many of the Niagara engine boys were enlisting. Jack listened
with all due attention to the various discussions held thereat in
the engine-house, and soon got it into his doggish head that

burnside's campaign. 271
something unusual was in the wind. As he walked about in a
dignified manner, all the while
"His gourie tail, wi' upward curl,
Hung o'er his hurdies wi' a swurl,"
and with an occasional bow-wow — all of which signified, that if
any big fire was to be extinguished, Jack was one to help.
Starting-time came, and sure enough, Jack was amongst the
first to enter the cars. Although he did not take the oath of
allegiance, yet none the less true has he proved himself. He
became enrolled in company A, which leads the regiment.
Jack leads the company, thus being always ahead, whether on
parade, the march, or battle-field. A slanderous report was in
deed put into circulation, that at the fearful battle of Malvern
Hills, when shot and shell, canister and Minnie began to fall
thick and fast, Jack skedaddled, and rejoined his company after
the fray was over. This is, however, by many flatly denied, so
that Jack claims the benefit of the demurrer. His broken bone
not having been set according to science, the leg, in conse
quence, remains crooked. It hence often gets hurt, — whereat
Jack will hold it up for inspection oi- sympathy, in a manner
quite creditable to any limping soldier in one of our numerous
hospitals. The , other dog is a curious-looking specimen of the canine.
One must be more skilled in doggery than the writer, to define
his species. Spaniel, cur, terrier, and water-dog all seem
blended in one. He is, however,
"A rhyming, ranting, roving billie."

272 camp, march and battle-field.
His partial friends do, indeed, boast him of high degree; yet
sure all who meet him must admit,
"That though he be of high degree,
The feint a pride, no pride has he."
Volunteering in the regiment while encamped in the city of
York, Pa., in May, 1861, he is, in accordance, surnamed York.
He is enrolled in company B, which occupies the extreme left
or rear of the regiment. Should Jack at any time approach
the rear, every hair on York's body is at once on end. Should
York approach the right, Jack sends him back according to
true military style and authority.
York's reasoning faculties seem to operate slowly. He is
accustomed to bound away, and bring back in his mouth what
ever missile any one of the boys may throw from them, whether
falling upon land or water. With live game he has but little
acquaintance. The other day a rabbit was started, and was
seen by York at a certain point. Thither he bounded with
wonderful agility; then he stopped and snuffed and snorted to
find the rabbit as he would a block or stone — seeming wholly
oblivious, that although the rabbit was actually in that spot
when he started in pursuit, it might not perchance be in the
same spot when he arrived. Marvellous stories are told by the
boys concerning the experience and knowledge in military af
fairs acquired by these dogs; all of which, if written *would fill
a volume, and put to shame many a Brigadier.
Another dog we had whose name is still cherished, and whose
memory should not be allowed to perish without a word. On
account of many graces, both mental and bodily, it received the
appellation of " Beauty." Along into the battle of Malvern, on

burnside's campaign. 273
the peninsula, went Beauty, but came not out. Some would
have it, that Beauty was taken prisoner, but as the name never
appeared among the list of captured, this seems impossible. The
majority have it, that Beauty was torn to pieces by a bursting
shell. Poor Beauty bleaches not alone, unburied, from our re
giment, upon those blood-stained hills of Malvern. Should
these two veterans not meet the fate of Beauty, and be allowed
to return with the living to Pittsburg, a bright brass collar, with
appended silver medal, will, no doubt, be voted to each, and
be worn by their dogships the remainder of life.
Reader, these two dogs give evidence of thinking as quickly,
and reasoning as accurately as yourself. What is it, then,
which separates you from them so widely, marking a distinction
lasting as eternity ? They have no conscience, no moral sense,
no remorse for the past, no hope or dread of the future. All
these you possess, and in their daily exercise they argue you
accountable — a being, the consequences of whose actions are
not to cease, as will those of Jack and York. Yet, perchance,
these dogs are acting in a manner much more rational than
yourself. Daily they do honor to every faculty their Maker
has given them, while it may be both you and those who proudly
boast themselves as the owners of the dog, are daily and reck
lessly dishonoring, by misimprovement, each power of body and
faculty of soul bestowed for high aims and holy purposes.
Two years have now elapsed since the above chronicle was made
of our two camp friends. These two eventful years have made rapid
and fearful changes among the human members of our regiment, as
well as of the whole army. Nor have our canine companions been
exceptions to war's rapid mutations. Eighteen months since, poor York
sank under a complication of injuries, diseases and exposures — died

274 camp, march and battle-field.
in camp, was buried with appropriate military honors by the members
of his company, while a board at the spot duly chronicles the event.
Jack still survives, through multiplied dangers and vicissitudes,
maintaining his honorable position in the field and active service. A
correspondent has lately written the following notice of Jack, copied
into nearly all the papers in the country.
"A Remarkable Dog. — Nearly every company, certainly every re
giment, in the service, has a pet of some kind or other. It matters not
whether the object of their affection be dog, cat, possum, cow or horse,
whatever it be, the brute is loved by all, and woe be to the outsider
who dares to insult or injure one of these pets. More personal en
counters have been brought on between soldiers about some pet ani
mal, than in any other way. Occasionally these pets become great
heroes, in their way , and then they become, general favorites with the
whole army. I have before me a photograph of one of this kind,
known as dog "Jack." As his history is not devoid of interest, I give
it here. "Jack" served a regular term with Niagara Fire Insurance
Engine Company, in Pittsburg, Pa., before the war broke out, and
when volunteers were called to put down this rebellion, several mem
bers of Niagara Company entered the service in the One Hundred and
Second Pennsylvania Volunteers, and Jack, no doubt prompted by
patriotic impulses, came into the field with some of his old friends, and
he can to-day produce as clean a record as any other dog. He was at
the siege of Yorktown, battle of Williamsburg, Fair Oaks, battle
of the Pickets, Malvern Hill, (where he was wounded,) first and se
cond Fredericksburg ; was captured at Salem Church, after which he
was exchanged and returned to the regiment, and in the battle of Ce
dar Creek, October 19th, he was again taken prisoner by the enemy,
early in the morning, while on duty at division head-quarters, but was
recaptured again when Sheridan made that famous advance, at 4 p. m .
"Jack" now runs on three legs, but in other respects he is as agile as
ever, and wears his honors as meekly as becometh a good dog."

burnside's campaign. 275
Battle-Field of Fredericksburg, 2 Miles below 1
the City, and South ofthe Rappahannock, Dec. 13th, 1862. J
Another Battle-Field. — Our last sketch left us in Win
ter encampment, six miles south-east from that little, old, aris
tocratic Fredericksburg. Other matters, however, beside
writing the biographies of either dogs or men, soon ensued.
At day-break, on Thursday morning the 11th, our former camp
was abandoned; where, for a week, and under the disadvantages
of rain, snow, freezing, high winds, and inadequate shelter, we
had been trying, with but -moderate success, to make ourselves
comfortable. Our front file was turned into the road leading
to Fredericksburg. The freezing of the previous night had
been so severe, that even the deep mud-holes bore, unyielding,
the tread of foot, horse, artillery and baggage-trains. The road
was soon worn to a glassy smoothness. The sun rose clear and
cloudless. The day was calm and beautiful. Two hours' march
brought us upon the high bluffs, which range along the beauti
ful Rappahannock, within full view of, and two miles below the
little, staid, old city.
Grand Living Panorama. — The view, which here met
our vision was, beyond all precedent in our campaigning, grand
and exciting. Of the many gorgeous military displays wit
nessed, during the past year and nine months, this was certain
ly the most extensive and imposing. A beautifully cultivated
plain, about half a mile wide, and a number of miles in length,
lies along the river, from the city to our left, as we approached.
The bluffs, in the rear of this plain, rise to a height of from
fifty to a hundred feet. All the various camps, which covered
the country for miles back, had been broken up the same morn-.
ing. On our arrival upon the rising ground, various divisions

276 CAMP, march and battle-field.
of the grand army were already massed upon the plain, while
numerous columns, beside our own, were pouring over these
little ranges of hills, and taking position in front of the river.
Trains of artillery, miles in length, were moving forward and
taking their assigned places. Files of cavalry, stretching out
of sight, skirted the whole. Two poontoon bridges were erect
ing opposite our approach; two farther up the river, and oppo
site the city; and two more still higher up. The rebels, by a
brisk fire, were disputing these constructions. A large number
of our batteries, planted close to the river, and farther back
upon the bluffs, were keeping up a continuous and tremendous
cannonade, in order to drive back the rebels, and protect the
pontoons. The rebel sharp-shooters persisted in firing from the
windows and roofs of the houses in Fredericksburg, upon our
bridge-builders, by which quite a number of them were killed
and wounded. Our Commanders, becoming at length weary
with such an uncivil sort of process, ordered our batteries to
open upon the city. When arriving within sight, although two
miles distant, we could see house, after house literally knocked
to pieces by our artillery, which fully commanded the place, a
number of them being already on fire. What has become of
the ten thousand inhabitants, seems an unravelled rebel myste
ry; but, a still more difficult problem for the future to solve will
be, what is to become of them during the winter.
As this mighty host was marshalled upon the hills and plains
of the Rappahannock, it seemed proud in the greatness of its
strength. Never did army tread the earth in better condition,
or more splendidly equipped. The feeble have been weeded
out of almost every regiment, by death, discharges, and filling
our many hospitals. The previous week had been very cold,
but bracing; thus making keen the appetites of the soldiers, who

burnside's campaign. ¦ 277
had plenty of the best provisions. With few exceptions, the
almost countlesB host was exulting in fine physical health, clad
in substantial and comfortable clothing, and armed with the
most approved instruments of modern destruction.
Across the river, and upon the adjacent ranges of hills, could
be traced the rebel line of defence — forts, batteries and rifle-
pits. Cheers from various regiments, brigades and divisions,
were constantly going up, as some new movement or incident
gave more than ordinary interest. Dense volumes of sulphu
rous smoke would occasionally hide some portions of the grand
panorama from view, and again be wafted away, revealing all to
sight. By sun-down, the two bridges opposite to us were com
pleted, and the advance column at once commenced crossing.
About the time the head of it reached the middle of the river,
a shout went up from the marshalled host arranged upon the
banks and ready to cross, which could be heard for miles. A
few brigades crossed and took possession of the opposite shore
without any special opposition; the vast bulk of our grand di
vision were ordered to occupy their position on the plain and
await the morning.
Sleeping under Difficulties. — Wearied with the day's
exercise and excitement, all were soon stretched upon the cold,
frozen ground, in order, if possible, to obtain sleep and rest,
The night was clear and very frosty. A friend from Pittsburg,
having a son in our regiment, is at present on a visit with us.
On this occasion, he was invited to share my hospitality till the
morning. An India rubber-cloth and woollen blanket, spread
on the frozen ground, constituted the bed, and two similar
pieces the covering. Between these we crept, and essayed that
very important item in a man's history, sleep. Accustomed
24

278 CAMP, march and battle-field.
now to sleep under almost any condition, the writer was pre
sently oblivious of so near a vicinity to the rebel legions. But
not so the good friend. Awaked by his vigorous twists and
turns, from side to side, " Any thing the matter ?" was queried.
" The matter? Nearly froze to death." "Never mind it,
was responded, lie close; hasn't Solomon affirmed, that where
two lie together they have heat?" " Solomon was mistaken."
At the same time, with a vigorous effort, his knees were brought
to his chin, and his body worked as nearly into the shape of a
ball as possible. It wouldn't all do. About midnight, accord
ing to that sorry notice which sometimes steals its way into
print, " He deserted my bed" — board, there was none — in or
der to struggle for life in some more promising place. Morn
ing light found him still living, and with legs and arms making
vigorous motions in order to shake heat into them, and cherish
ing, moreover, a most decided impression, that if poetry did
exist in this thing of soldiering, he "couldn't see it."
Across the Rappahannock. — Early on Friday morning,
we moved across the pretty little river, and took position upon
the opposite plain. Nearly all this day was spent in bringing
across the various columns, and forming them into lines-of-bat-
tle. On Saturday morning, a tremendous cannonade was
opened all along the lines, extending four or five miles, and
continued, with little intermission, throughout the day. At
times it was awfully grand. The rebel position is one of great
strength, and but very little impression seemed to be made
thereon by all our enormous bombardment. One of our bat
teries — six pieces — used up six wagon- loads of ammunition, and
perhaps therewith did injury to six rebels. The rebel artillery
practice was not very effective. Although we were within full

burnside's campaign. 279
range of their pieces, and on the open plain, and our regiment
for a long while a target for their gunners, yet not a man in it
was hurt. A few attempts were made with infantry upon their
lines, but with very limited success. Our loss, though con
siderable, was, nevertheless, very inconsiderable, when the
amount of troops engaged is remembered.
On Sabbath morning our brigade, being in an exposed posi
tion, was ordered to lie down and remain quiet. And we lay
on the cold ground from Sabbath morning till this Monday
morning. On this account, no religious service was allowed.
It was a strange and quiet Sabbath. No firing or fighting, —
the contending legions silently and grimly looking at each other.
At 4 o'clock this morning, we were ordered to relieve the
troops in the front line, and, when coming here, were ordered
to get down into an old muddy ditch, which the owner of the
land had dug, long since, in order to drain off the water, and
from the neighborhood of which delectable place, I now write,
towards evening.

Camp below Falmouth, north side of the Rappahannock, \
Tuesday afternoon, Dee. 16th, 1862. J
Our Regiment remained quietly hid away in its muddy ditch
yesterday until darkness came on ; when we, together with all
the troops, which had gone over the river, noiselessly, orderly,
and speedily recrossed to the north side. By three in the
morning, all were over, the pontoon bridges were taken up : an
unobstructed river runs between us and the rebels : we are
safe. It looks marvellously like a skedaddle. It may be strategy .
Time will develop.

280 camp, march and battle-field.
Sele-Preservation. — The phrensy of soldiers rushing
during an engagement to glory or to death has, as our boys
amusingly affirm, been played out. Our battle-worn veterans
go into danger when ordered, remain as a stern duty so long as
directed, and leave as soon as honor and duty allow. Camp
followers, and one third of our armies may now be classed under
that category, keep behind the range of shell and Minnie.
At pictures in Frank Leslie, Harper's Weekly, et id omne
genus, of officers with drawn swords riding before their men
into battle, our boys shout with mocking irony ; all played out.
Regimental officers and all others, who can, go into battle ore foot;
while Generals and their aids keep as far in the rear as duty
will permit.
Joe. — An original, comic contraband — a real Ethiopean,
called Joe, may be cited as a fair specimen of cautious bravery.
No one suspects Joe of actual cowardice. On the contrary,
were he enrolled in a colored Regiment, drilled and led to battle,
would no doubt fight as bravely as have so many of his brave,
but long despised countrymen. Joe attached himself to our
Regiment at Yorktown, on its retreat from the Peninsula under
McClellan. He soon became foreman- to a mess of our officers
in the business of preparing coffee, bean soup, salt pork and
hard tack. Joe followed with his viands as near to the battle
field of Fredericksburg as seemed to himself safe. The mess,
however, saw nothing of Joe or his eatables for twenty-four
hours after crossing the river to battle ; by which time each
member had become voraciously hungry. Being under fire all
the while, none of them could be allowed to the rear for refresh
ments. At eventide it became my duty to recross the river
with some of our wounded, and on starting received earnest and
oft-repeated injunctions, that, if Joe were any where seen, to

burnside's campaign. 281
hurry him up, as all were nearly starved. When some third of
a mile to the river, and descending the steep bluff to the pon
toon bridge, the outlines of Joe were undoubtedly seen, and so
close under the steep bank as not to be endangered by a random
shell. " Hallo, Joe, your mess is almost starved — not a bite since
yesterday, nor even a cup of coffee."
" Is'e de meat and crackers ready, responds Joe, and de coffee
boiling so long he's most dry."
" But why don't you take them up to the officers at once,
Joe ?"
The shades of evening were then upon us, and a vigorous
cannonading going on between our batteries and the rebel
earth-works. Shells were screaming and crossing each other's
pathway in all directions, while each one, as it burst, made a
brilliant flash with fiery streamers to all points. Showing all
the white of his Ethiopean orbits as they were turned in the
direction of the battle, his finger pointing, Joe responded with
much emphasis, " Is'e de coffee and all ready long ago, sure ; but
Is'e not gwan up dar whar so many big stars are bustin."
Joe's military judgment and consequent action a few hours
afterwards were not so full of common sense ; yet on a par with
many a reporter and editor who persist in uttering oracles on
such matters.
At the middle of the same night our Division of the grand
army, quietly, yet speedily as possible, fell back from before the
rebel works, recrossed the river and by the break of day the
poontoons were lifted ; allowing the Rappahannock once more to
flow between us and the army. Joe, in the mean time, instead
of taking the coffee and crackers to his mess, had lain down
beneath the bluff and gone to sleep. During the recrossing of
2-1*

282 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
the immense column in the night, Joe was once waked; — got
up, looked at the dim outline of the moving mass, vigorously
scratched his woolly pate, and philosophized as to the probable
occasion. That the grand army of the Potomac had been re
pulsed and compelled to fall back thus stealthily at the dead of
night, never entered that thick cranium of the philosophic Joe.
" It was strategy." " Or the rebels had perhaps gotten around
on the other side of the river and our men were hurrying over
to meet them, in which case Fse already on de safe side." In
any case Joe felt secure, quietly laid down and again went to
sleep. Waking at dawn, this master of camp culinary got up to
look about and again philosophize as to the actual state of affairs.
It was not long before his real condition flashed upon poor Joe.
The army had disappeared, the pontoons were lifted, and he was
on the wrong side of the river. Joe's philosophy all evaporated
in a moment. ' With frantic yells and fierce gesticulations for
' help, he rushed down to the edge of the little river. A daring
young officer who remained with a picket guard shot across in
a skiff, and rescued Joe from his perilous position. Often
afterwards while in camp, was the comic African called upon for
his army experience. Giving this in his own laughable way,
Joe never failed to acknowledge, that in military strategy he
might be somewhat deficient.

Camp five miles south-east from Fredericksburg, "1
Virginia, December 24th, 1862. J
Another Repulse. — Our re-crossing the river has proved
to be a fair back-out from before the rebels. Concerning this,
when closing my last, some doubt was entertained. The hope

burnside's CAMPAIGN. 283
was cherished, that it might be but a piece of strategy. Sure
it was, that in the left grand division of the army, so far as I
could ascertain, and understand the feelings of the soldiers, none
dreamed that we were under any compulsion to retire. De
feated we certainly were not; at least all seemed entirely igno
rant of any such transaction. Repulsed we were not. All felt
confident in the ability to drive the rebels from their position ;
and when actually re-crossing the river, at the dead of night,
the impression seemed general that it was merely to go farther
down, and again cross, in order to flank the enemy.
Since, however, we have come back, near to one of our old
camps, and remamed quietly for more than a week without any
signs of farther aggressive movements, the impression has be
come firmly seated that, at least in the estimation of our gene
rals, we were compelled to turn back. All tbis is having a
most depressing influence on our soldiers. They are not mere
machines, but intelligent American citizens. So far as conver
sant with the feelings of the privates in our army, their confi
dent opinion still is, that the fault, if fault there be, rests not
with them, that at any time past, and now, they are abundantly
. able and willing to meet and crush out the power of rebellion
in a day. Their hopes and desires being so long deferred, they
are hence becoming querulous, uneasy, discontented and home
sick. Chaplains' Labors Needed.— At no previous time has
my mission in camp, as chaplain, appeared more important, nor
a stronger desire felt to fill its mission aright. If any sinking
and misgivings in my own heart have been felt, sure it is, those
around me have not been allowed to make the discovery. • In
every available way, my effort is to encourage both the officers

284 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
and privates. Urging upon them the consideration that these
are the Lord's doings ; that though He may cast down, yet will He
not destroy; that our cause being just, must in the end prevail;
that God is showing," the battle is not always to the strong;"
that He is calling us, by seeming reverses, to repentance and
forsaking of sin; that, when these ends have been effectually
accomplished, then will the victory be speedy and certain. And
in accordance with these thoughts, I preached, on Sabbath eve
ning last, from God's promise to rebellious-afflicted Israel: "I
will give him the valley of Achor (trouble) for a door of hope."
Solemnities of the Late Battle-Field. — On that Sab
bath, during the continuance of the late battle, as nearly all our
left grand division lay motionless upon the ground, the whole
day, waiting for the moving of the waters, — as I passed along
various lines, very many more Bibles and Testaments were seen
in tbe hands of the soldiers, and attentively read, than at any
former period. The Lord's Spirit seemed to have sent a feel
ing of seriousness. Quite a number in our own regiment,
whose minds had formerly been interested in religious things,
yet, in the turmoils and wickedness of camp, appeared to have
forgotten, had their minds on that occasion so seriously affected,
that since our return here, they have not only earnestly con
versed of the matter, but anxiously attended all our subsequent
religious meetings. May the Lord smile upon a day, even of
small things, turn again our captivity, and bring our whole
army, as well as entire nation, to such a high moral condition,
that the rebels will flee away in terror before its invincible
power.

BURNSIDE'S CAMPAIGN. 285
Winter Quarters. — We have received no orders or inti
mation to prepare winter quarters. A number of disappoint
ments having already taken place in connection with this matter,
the soldiers are hence slow to act ; and many have contented
themselves, during the past week of cold weather, with their
little fireless shelter-tents. Others are busy erecting small huts
and cabins of varied sha"pes and dimensions, though wholly un
certain as to whether they will be allowed the privilege of in
habiting them for a single night after completion.
Hermit's Den. — My own present abode would do credit to
a hermit, suit a recluse, or accommodate an outlaw. Rather
picturesque is it withal — -by no means uninviting, nor yet de
void of comfort, as they certainly contribute to make the writer
feel quite at home. The place occupied by our present camp,
was a tobacco, corn or potato field, some dozen years ago.
When tillage ceased, an operation not uncommon in these parts,
a dense growth of young pines sprung up, which are now from
fifteen to twenty feet high. Through parts of it, a bird could
hardly fly, or a man creep, nor see a. yard before him. In one
of the thickest portions, my stopping-place was assigned. With
some labor, a sufficient space was cleared on which to pitch the
little tent, with room in front of the open end for a fire. For
ingress and egress, a winding-path was cut through the thick
bushes, calling to mind the childish glee-song of "The Spider
and the Fly."
Primitive Church. — We have also built, or rather cut
down, a church. Into another portion of the dense grove, our
boys'made two winding ways, and cleared off a circular space,
thirty or forty feet in diameter, piling up the brush into a thick

286
wall. At even-tide, a cheerful fire is kindled in the centre of
this space; and at the time of our regular evening sacrifice, all
desiring, enter and stand in a large circle around the fire, while
we worship. Could dear friends at home look in upon us on
evenings, sure they would be interested, and perchance as much
edified as in some gorgeous structure, on whose erection many
thousands have been expended.
Christmas. — To-morrow will be Christmas. No turkey,
chicken, goose, plum-pudding, or other dyspeptics, are likely to
do us either good or ill. Here, however, is an inventory of
good things which have been obtained from our Brigade Com
missary for my Christmas dinner, and in the discussion of
which an effort will be made to feel both thankful and happy :
a cutting of fresh beef, salt pork, beans, coffee, sugar, and the
ubiquitous cracker. May each dear absent and loved one have
as sumptuous a dinner, accompanied with a healthy stomach,
good digestion, and a peaceful conscience.

Camp Near Falmouth, Va., Dec. 31st, 1862.
Close of Sixty-Two. — To-day closes this most eventful of
years, since Christ was born. Here in the little tent, and
surrounded by this beautiful grove of pines," an effort is being
made to look retrospectively, and connect the events of the three
hundred and sixty-five days. After the best effort, they seem
like a strange, bewildered, disturbed, though rather pleasing
dream. The multiplying, crowding, exciting, dangerous, and
ever-varying scenes, whicli memory now attempts to grasp,

burnside's campaign. 287
must, however, have been realities; through all which the
Lord has led me. To erect here an Ebenezer, and write upon
it, in good Saxon English, " Thus far hath the Lord helped
me," would seem but an act of simple duty; yet, unless the
promptings of some undiscovered selfishness— the wellings up
of a grateful heart.
Reckoning. Time. — As to whether a month, a year, or an
age has intervened since last New Year's, our own consciousness
could not decide with accuracy. This can be precisely known
to any one, only by the hand boards — the circles, which God
has wisely given us whereby to mark the passage of that
mysterious thing, we call Time. The lost in hell, may, in
their agony, suppose a day to be a thousand years, as they have
probably no means, by which to count the hours, as they slowly,
painfully, and eternally roll on. The redeemed in heaven, may,
in their glory, reckon a thousand years but a single day;
having no care, perhaps no means to mark the progress of a
happy, unending existence of light, and joy, and peace. Here,
we are compelled to look at our watches, our clocks, or our
dials in order to ascertain the correct hour of day— look in our
almanac for the day in the year — to the waxing and waning
moon for the passing of months; and to the advancing and
receding seasons for the count of years.
Unknown Future. — Another of our largest annals — for
the day is an annal, the week an annal, the month a ring — dias
surely gone, and its record entered on high. To count up, and
write its incidents at present, will not be attempted. My
weekly letters will have sufficed to furnish a faint idea of the
doings, and condition of things with us, during the past

288 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
months. As to the future, let it take care of itself. " Suf
ficient unto the day is the evil thereof." Were the proffer
made, by a power competent to grant, that the veil from the
annual, on which we enter, should be lifted, so as to see all
things respecting myself clearly in the future, as well as of
others in whose well-being there is a deep concern — though
curiosity might strongly prompt the lifting ; yet would reason
and self-interest unite in saying; " Oh, no — keep the future
hidden till it comes."
Rebellion Unbroken. — Our progress, in crushing the re
bellion, has certainly not been characterized by great rapidity.
The relative positions, and conditions, with respect to the army
of the Potomac, and the opposing rebel forces, seem to differ
but little from those of last year. All would seem to begin
anew, and again to be gone over. None among us can tell —
not even our good uncle Abe; that sorely puzzled, pestered,
and bewildered President; — nor our brave, yet repulsed Gen.
Burnside — and of to-morrow. The earnest wish of all here is,
for a speedy fulfilment of that fallacious promise or prophecy of
Gen. McClellan's: " The war will be short, but bloody."
"Tired of Camp Life? — Do you inquire? Yes, dear
reader, tired, very tired ; and yet not tired. Weary, indeed,
with this savage manner of life — with these inadequate shelters,
rugged fare, and scanty comforts — weary with this uncertainty
of abode, of condition, and of life — Weary for home, and chil
dren, and friends, and church, and all endearments of civilized
life — weary with camps, where not a single element exists
favorable to the religion of Jesus — tired of this unceasing
turmoil; this noise; these drums, vigils, these parades, inspec-

BURNSIDE'S CAMPAIGN. 289
tions, marches, battles, bloodshed, deaths, mutilations, sufferings,
sorrows, sins, pollutions — And ? — Not weary ; not tired ; nor at
all desirous to be freed from this service. The Lord's work is
to be done, and plenty of it here. Never in a like period, has
so much evidence of blessing on ministerial labo^ been granted,
as upon those of the past year ; and at no time more than now.
Never remember of greater happiness, and real enjoyment in
the Master's service. Here on the 31st day December, 1862,
in a very contracted cloth house — a heavy shower of rain patter
ing thereon, and some through, one end of the abode open, a
fire burning on the ground in front, seated on the ground and
writing upon the cover of a cracker box — call it boasting — your
correspondent challenges the world to produce a happier, more
contented, and joyous subject of God's government this side of
Jordon, than himself. Whether the close of the year, on
which we enter to-morrow, shall find him a member of the
Church militant or triumphant gives no uneasiness.
Half gone in a year. — The thousand men in our Regi
ment, who went on parade in Tennally, last New Year, have
been reduced about one half — a very small reduction compared
with most. About two hundred have been killed or mutilated
in the various battles through whicli we have passed. Some
have died by the way — some become enfeebled, and been dis
charged — others sick and away in various hospitals, or at home
— some resigned — some taken on the gun-boats, some to drive
wagon, ambulances, signal corps, etc. Though thus reduced,
yet was the regiment never, perhaps, in so good ' condition.
Those remaining are veterans. Very little doubt, that the five
hundred, thus weeded out, would give effective battle to quite as
25

290 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
many rebels as the entire thousand would have done a year
since.

Camp near Fredericksburg, Va., 1
January 9th, 1863. }
New Year's Salutation. — That thing, we call time, is a
strange enigma. Sometimes the imagination tries to look at it,
as an endlessly flowing stream, passing by objects stationary;
having also upon its surface sufficient floating material to indi
cate the rapidity of the current. At another time that think
ing existence, of which the imagination forms an out-growth, is^
supposed to be on that river, and moving down with its current,
here quietly gliding along between even banks and over smooth
bottom; then on a ripple, yonder a sudden bend, now growing
into rapids, with their rushing, foaming, dashing waters, and
once again becoming calm and tranquil. These ever restless
thoughts once more try to look at and examine time, as if
travelling upon a long journey, while place after place, and ob
ject after object is successively passed — a hill here gone over;
now a mountain, down again into a valley, across the river, —
on and on — anon, casting a glance back into the fading scenes
of things passed by; and again trying to look forward into the
future, in order to distinguish objects yet far ahead. Once
again, time is looked upon as a seemingly interminable line, and
a mission given to pass along and mark the same, a measuring
reed being given, consisting of seconds,- minutes, hours, days,
weeks, months, and years. Yet does the question return with
renewed interest, and perplexity, " What is Time ?"

burnside's campaign. 291
What is Time ? — At that period of life, when the celebrated
New England primer was in high estimation, as being a great
book, the answer to the question would have been, " Time is
a vigorous-looking old man, with a long lock of hair over his
forehead, a sharp scythe thrown vigorously back with both
arms, the legs bent, the back curved, the head braced — all in
dicating, not only a vigorous stroke, but onward movement;
and with the shuddering doggerel as an epigram :
" Time cuts down all,
Both great and small."
The old man, it must be admitted, if still viewed under this
figure, has been quite successful in his mowing operation the
past year; and moreover exhibits not the slightest weariness
nor disposition to halt in entering upon the business of the New
Year. One would have thought that our old friend or enemy,
as he may be variously looked at, ought to have been satisfied
with the exploits of the past, and in consequence taken a little
rest, yet do his joints seem to be iron and his sinews brass.
Present and Future. — -Whether we speak wisely or fool
ishly, in calling the former days better than these, will be mani
fested as their multiplying events are summed up. Away we
go, however, as our Latin Classics had it, into medias res of
1863. And whether it be accounted fickleness, a lack of solid
friendship for the past, or a desire for something new, we can
cheerfully say,
" Welcome the coming, speed the parting guest."

292 camp, march and battle-field.
Of one thing at least we may be confident: the incoming
period will be greater than its predecessor — fuller of stirring,
important, and decisive events. Jesus is revolutionizing the
globe, and each successive annual not only brings nearer, but
with accelerated speed, His reign of peace and love.
Christian Association. — Our Christian Association was
never in more active nor seemingly in a more useful condition.
During the past two weeks of inexpressibly beautiful winter
weather our evening meetings have been unusually large and
full of interest. In our Church, walled in by thick pine
bushes, a cheerful fire burning in the centre, the clear, lovely
moon and starry host looking down smilingly upon us; how
near, often, we feel to heaven. On the last evening of the old
year our address or sermon was in connection with the past and
the present; — on New Year's evening, upon our fears and
hopes, our joys and sorrows, our duties and responsibilities with
the future.
We are this week following the programme proposed for the
week of prayer; and thus far, with much pleasure, evident
profit, and increasing interest. The blessed results of this
prayer week will not end with the incoming year. Our five or
six Bible classes are also revived and increased with the plea
sant weather, and regularly held, with no doubt as to the good
thus accomplished.
The two following months were in a remarkable degree free from
incidents to occupy the pen, — dull, dreary, monotonous, camp life.
Burnside's Mud Campaign lacked incident sufficient to put the pen in
motion. Burnside's removal, and Hooker's appointment to the chief

burnside's campaign. 293
command, caused scarcely a ripple on the placid surface of our camp
existence. The soldiers for the time being seemed to have lost all
confidence in generals, and thus cared little who commanded them.
My pen lacked the energy and inspiration necessary for sketches
from camp during the months of- January and February.

25*

294 CAMP, MARCH and battle-field.

CHAPTER VIII.
january— july, 1863.
Camp near Falmouth, Va., 1
March 6th, 1863. /
Washington's Birth-Day. — But few instances worthy of
note have transpired within the lines of this standing army since
my last. One at least considered worthy of commemoration,
and in connection with which it has long been esteemed a pa
triotic duty to expend a large amount both of bombast and gun
powder — Washington's Birth-Day. This year it happened upon
the Sabbath. Had we-been at home, Monday would most likely
have been selected on which to ooze out this birth-day patriot
ism. As no Sabbath is allowed us in camp, the actual birth
day was observed. During the entire day a pitiless and furious
eastern sno-w-storm beat upon our exposed condition, piling, in
the mean time, heavy drifts in and around our fragile dwelling-
places. The effort of each one in camp was in appearance to
squeeze through the day with what grains of comfort could be
gathered under the conditions, letting birth-days and death-
days take care of themselves. My over-veneration for the great
Pater Patrias must have been very sadly at fault; for, during
the entire forenoon, not the slightest consciousness or memory
existed that an annual return of the day had come, on which

hooker's command. 295
was born into this sinful world a man child, who was after
wards christened George Washington. A dim impression there
was that it was the Lord's day, and that a furious snow-storm
was debarring out-door religious exercises.
About noon, when the storm was at its height, we were all
startled by a heavy cannonade, which commenced upon our left,
and soon extended far along the lines. It seemed as though a
great battle were opening. The rebels must have taken advan
tage of the storm suddenly to cross the river. What greatly
strengthened this impression was, that presently a brisk can
nonade also commenced along the rebel lines. Our suspense
and excitement were, however, ere long quieted by an undis
turbed soldier, who lay in his tent and counted the number of
shots." Thirty-four along the Union lines — Thirteen among the
rebels. " Salute," he shouted, " Washington's birth-day." Ah,
yes, how stupid not to have remembered. The excitement at
once vanished, if not the veneration, Federals and Confederates
both shooting at the memory of Washington ! Fortunate, no
doubt, that the old gentleman is dead. If living, he might be
exposed to both fires. Better, perhaps, for us at present to go
moderately about garnishing the tombs of our national prophets.
To remedy their errors we are now fighting. At the good they
accomplished we sincerely rejoice. Over their mistakes, now
bearing such bitter fruits, we feel too sad to hold boisterous ju
bilations on their birth-days. The flames of this rebellion may
yet consume all the seeming good our fathers accomplished.
Boyhood of Washington. — Over these hills and vales,
now covered by our various camps, Washington roamed, sported,
and hunted, from his fourth to his sixteenth year. The record
is not before me; but, if remembered, history records that in his

296 camp, march and battle-field.
young days he threw a stone across the Rappahannock. Unless
the river was wider then than now, the feat was certainly not
very remarkable. Almost any one of our active school boys
could do the same. Some of our boys assert that they have
found the identical cherry tree the truth-telling lad so hacked
with his little axe. At least an aged cherry tree, with various
scars upon it, has been seen. The tomb of Washington's mo
ther shines upon us ffom the opposite side of the river. But
whether a beautiful or costly structure, cannot be decided at
this distance.
Weather. — Here, within the past two weeks, have been
crowded together all kinds of weather known to the calendar,
with a few varieties not seemingly as yet described. Snow —
hard, fleecy, in large flakes^ and tempests. Rain — in mists,
drops, showers, and torrents. Temperature — chilly, cold, mild,
and warm. And mud? — in acres, fluids, farms, a country of
mud and of depths unknown. These quantities of mud seem
also to possess more sense than the rebels. Not the slightest
aversion to us Northern folk : seem rather to favor union : not
even opposed to consolidation, — it adheres — sticks. To make
any general movement, during the present condition of the ele
ments above head and under foot, would be an impossibility.
Health. — Not so good among the various regiments as during
the earlier part of the winter. Rain, snow, mud, damps, expo
sure, inadequate shelter, as is common under all such conditions,
have rendered many unfit for service. Our regimental hospi
tals are all fairly filled. Various types of diarrhoea are the pre
vailing ailments. But few fatal cases. Altogether the army is
in good condition; well fed, well clothed, well armed, well

hooker's command. 297
drilled, and ready whenever ordered to perform most effective
service. Books. — When lately in Pittsburg, the friends of our sol
diers furnished me with two hundred dollars, to be invested in
books for the use of our regiment. All this, also, without any
solicitation. Many liberal offers, in addition, by various per
sons, were declined at the time; sufficient for one invoice having
been received. Think of this, croakers, misers, and traitors !
With this sum a choice selection of reading matter was made.
Not merely the literature suitable -for children's reading, which
is unfortunately the usual kind sent to our soldiers, but several
hundred volumes of well-bound books of ordinary size; the
choicest moral and .religious literature of our day — books for
men to read; as such are happily found in our regiment.
All these books were packed in one large box, and by Adams'
Express generously forwarded to Washington free of charge.
Yet it consumed three weeks, with every known effort to get it
from Washington to our camp. Arrive, however, it did two
days since. Would that the generous donors had been in my
tent during these two past days ! Doubly repaid would they all
have been for their generous outlay. A constant stream of men
has all the while been coming and going. Our boys, for some
time past, have been entirely destitute, and were in consequence
literally hungering and thirsting after something to read. How
glad, how satisfied did many go away to their little tents, bear
ing in the hand some choice book ! Nor has the distribution
been confined to our own regiment. Our pioneer corps, and
members from various other regiments in our immediate vicinity,
hearing ofthe important arrival, have come asking a share, and
none have been sent away empty. The large amount of good

298 camp, march and battle-field.
which will be thus effected by the contents of this box, cannot
now be reckoned. For this, we must wait till the books of re
cord are opened at the final judgment.
Mode of Distribution. — When a box or parcel has been
opened, each one coming for a book is addressed in substance:
" There is the collection; take your choice. You get it on the
soldier's honor. When you have read it, let your messmates, if
desired, have its perusal also. When all are done, return it,
and get another, should any be on hand. When ordered on a
march, and you have a book, be sure and carry it with you to
the next stopping-place." But few books are lost by wilful
carelessness; some, of course, go by the chances and accidents
of war. All soon wear out with the best care in the ruggedness
of camp life. Friends must not, therefore, think us wasteful or
extravagant, when fresh supplies are often asked for.

Camp near Falmouth, Va., 1
March 20, 1863. J
Monotony. — Camp life, such as we have been compelled to
endure for months past, becomes to the American soldier very
heavy and monotonous. Our boys seem not only waiting, but
anxious for something to turn up.
Picket Duty. — Although at this season and in immediate
front of the enemy, picket duty is a very exposed, fatiguing,
and sometimes dangerous service, yet, when ordered thereto, our
Regiment starts off with readiness and even satisfaction.

hooker's command. 299
Once in about every two weeks our entire Regiment is or
dered away on this business; and does not again return to
their camp until after the expiration of three days and nights.
The place assigned for guarding is several miles from camp, on
the line of the Rappahannock. A certain distance, say a mile<,
is allotted the regiment close along the margin of the river.
About one-third of the whole number are on duty at once.
These are stationed within sight and easy speaking distance of
each other; so that no one can pass through without being
challenged. Thus for three days and nights is the station in
cessantly guarded until relieved by another regiment. Each
extreme is joined by other regiments on similar duty, thus,
lining the river for long miles together.
Rebel Pickets. — The opposite bank, and for a similar dis
tance, is lined in like manner, with rebel pickets. The Rappa
hannock being here narrow, deep and sluggish, the sentinels of
each army are not only in constant sight of each other, but
within easy speaking distance. No amount of military law,
solemn injunctions to silence, nor fear of each other, can prevent
more or less intercourse between the sentinels on the opposing
lines. This would be more than human. This smuggled in
tercourse, gotten up on their own responsibility, is not, however,
belligerent, treasonable, nor to give forbidden information to the
enemy. All is of a social friendly character. Nor need this be
marvelled at. Brave soldiers, however belligerent, when meeting
off the battle field, are ever wont to feel and act friendly towards
each other. And after the fiercest conflicts, when peace is re
stored, no matter who has conquered, all history shows that the so
lately hostile parties have been wont to join, with the greatest
cordiality, in all the arts of peace and social life. So also will the

300 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
soldiers of these hostile armies, when the power of this rebellion
has been thoroughly broken, but not till then, live together in
greater amity than formerly.
Contraband Trade. : — When weary with the silent tread
of his beat, and watching the same operation across the river,
the Federal soldier will speak over; " Got any late Richmond
papers to exchange?" "Yes," says Reb.; "but how do the
thing?" "Never mind," says Fed.; "it can be done." So
ere long he has a miniature sail-vessel constructed, such as,
when boys, we were wont to make and place on little ponds of
water. In this some late Union paper is placed, the little sail
properly adjusted, when, with favoring wind, across it goes into
Dixie. Its cargo is replaced by some Richmond Journal, prow
turned, the sail readjusted, and back it comes to the sender.
Not only in papers, but in other commodities is trade briskly
carried on. "Got any coffee to spare?" says Reb. "Plenty,"
says Fed.: "you got any tobacco?" "Lots," says Reb.: "let's
swap." "Agreed," says Yank. The tiny vessel is presently
freighted with a pound or two of coffee, and started on its ha
zardous voyage, with anxious gaze from both lines of pickets;
yet in due time it reaches the opposite shore, where it is speedily
unladen, refreighted with a quid pro quo in tobacco, and soon
after joyfully welcomed to the Federal lines.
For this little seemingly contraband trade, neither line of
pickets thought of doing injury to the other. To have taken
advantage of the bartering operation to have shot at or injured
each other, would have been looked upon by the other party as
downright murder. Yet in a few days or weeks these same
men may meet each other in fierce encounter upon the battle

hooker's command. 301

field, mutually killing and mutilating with all the skill and en
ergy of their being. How barbarous a thing is war !

Camp near Falmouth, Virginia, 1
April 2d, 1863. /
Chaplains. — "The Chaplain service is about played out" —
"Has proved a failure." Not unfrequently have the veritable
reporters of the New York Herald transmitted such reports to
that truth-loving sheet. Other papers, of more veracious pre
tensions, copy and circulate. "The Chaplain service has about
proved a failure," says Major-General 0. 0. Howard, while
making a speech in the Hall of Congress, at a late meeting of
the U. S. Christian Commission. Verily, these naughty chap
lains are sorely beset and needy.
The New York branch of the Christian Commission, in an
appeal to the public soon after, quotes General Howard's asser
tion, leaving out, however, the slightly modifying word "about"
or " almost," making the good General affirm, without any qua
lification, "that the chaplaincy had proved a failure." On this
presumption, the Christian community was urged to send three
hundred of the ablest pastors from the churches North on a
three months' tour, in order to perform the great work of con
verting the army, which the chaplains, by their failure, had left
undone. It was not to be thought a marvel, if chaplains, who
were struggling on under many embarrassments and discourage
ments, should feel aggrieved and even indignant under such
unprovoked, and, as they believed, unjust aspersions. Having
a long and wide acquaintance with chaplains, their peculiar and
26

"¦•I *

302difficult work, their trials, the cold shoulder given to them by
the Government, the undisguised opposition from ungodly and
drunken officers, and now the injustice from those who were
supposed to be friends, — the following communication was at
the time sent to the press : —
"Paul, thou art permitted to speak for thyself,"
was accorded to a minister of Christ, even by a heathen of
ficer. The vast majority of the four or five hundred chaplains
in our armies, who are now laboring to do good in the midst of
every discouragement, and under the most crushing conditions,
choose rather, no doubt, to toil on in silence, under such whole
sale accusations. Your correspondent, however, feels a little
more belligerent — has become accustomed to warfare, and hence
feels disposed to kick against these pricks.
Such goadings as come from the reporters of the New York
Herald, and like sheets, are not worth a kick. Some of the
influences operating on the mind of General Howard, inducing
him to make such a declaration, are not unknown here in camp.
It is also devoutly to be hoped that neither the U. S. Christian
Commission, nor any other association desirous of benefiting our
army, and in whose labors and success we so much rejoice, will
attempt to press themselves into importance by disparaging the
labors of others, equally laborious, self-denying, and desirous of
doing good as themselves.
Failures. — "Chaplain service a failure?" Well, dear Ge
neral Howard, it is not the only failure since the opening of
this rebellion. Last summer our little army of Generals un
dertook to lead our big army of soldiers into Richmond, and
under their guidance, it proved not almost, but a total failure.

HOOKER'S COMMAND. 303
and in which disastrous failure, General Howard lost an arm.
Surely, he should speak modestly about others' failures. Last
December, much the same army of officers, with their com
mands, — the speech-making General along, made an assault
upon the rebel lines, behind Fredericksburg, and didn't almost
fail, but altogether. Now, as some conclusions ought to be
drawn from all these failures, as premises; therefore,
Resolved, That all the chaplains had better go home, and
send their grandmothers to preach to the soldiers.
Resolved, That all our generals ought at once to retire into
private life, and give the command of our armies to their wives
and daughters, in order hereafter to insure success.
Slander. — Were I, in a public speech, to assert, that our
army officers, as a whole, have proved, and are still proving, a
failure — that they are a drunken, swearing, gambling, rowdy
set— that they have little heart in the war, and small desire to
see it soon and successfully ended — that to the vast majority of
them the presence of a faithful chaplain is a great annoyance —
that they embrace every possible means, and take advantage of
their high official stations, to weaken the chaplain's hands, re
tard his labors, and, if possible, drive him from the army, —
such speaking might be looked upon as sinning against those in
high places, and unbecoming a meek and worthless chaplain.
Chaplains' Meeting. — A number of delegates from the
Christian Commission are now laboring with success in this
section of the army. By suggestion, a meeting of Chaplains,
from the 6th Army Corps, was held, at 2 P. M., on Monday,
March the 30th, in order to consult with, and more effectively
co-operate with each other and with these brethren. Ten chap-

304

lains came together, with three delegates. The meeting was
held in the corner of a miserable, old, dilapidated shed-roofed
building, called White Oak Church. The exercises were ex
ceedingly interesting, fraternal and profitable. Among various
items of business transacted, was the following : —
Whereas, We, the Chaplains of the 6th Army Corps, having
met to consult with a number of delegates from the U. S. Chris
tian Commission; — therefore,
Resolved, That we cordially welcome these brethren to this
great work of the Lord, and promise them all the informa
tion respecting our peculiar work, and encouragement in their
efforts, within our power.
Resolved, That we reject the imputations, so widely circulated,
that the chaplain service has proved a failure, and hereby in
vite the attention of these and all other Christian friends who
may visit the army, to our difficult work.
These resolutions, endorsing the U. S. Christian Commission, were
penned by the author, and their adoption by the Chaplain's meeting,
urged, under the full impression that the good and earnest men who
were there completing its organization, were laboring under a misap
prehension as to Chaplains and their work. Nor, in urging the pas
sage of the resolutions, and every where commending the great work,
of the Christian Commission, was the duty relinquished of earnestly
protesting against the injustice done by General Howard and the
Committee in New York, until they made the amende honorable.
Time, and the workings of the various elements for good to our sol
diers, soon brought the anticipated results. The Commission advanced
in the increasing greatness and beneficence of its work, yet neither
superseded nor injured the Chaplain's office or work. Chaplains were
excited to scrutiny, increased energy and zeal in their peculiar and
most difficult work. The friction at the commencement, only tended

hooker's command. 305
to brighten both. Discussion, debate and examination were elicited,
all tending to good.
The New York Committee of the Christian Commission, soon after
having published, on the authority of General 0. 0. Howard, that the
Chaplain service was a failure, issued another address to the Chaplains
of the U. S. Army, in which, among other friendly things, they say, —
"We address you in the spirit of fraternal respect and confidence, ten
dering to you severally our co-operation, and soliciting your aid in a
work too heavy for all the gospel agencies hitherto employed. It will
give us pleasure to facilitate and supplement your self-denying la
bors." General Howard, having his attention directed to the cruel injustice
done to chaplains by himself, or the doing of some ignorant or inac
curate reporter, did, in another speech made a year thereafter, in the
Academy of Music, Philadelphia, thus refer to the matter : —
"A year ago, I made the remark, that the chaplaincy, as a system, was
defective. WeU, I want to explain myself on that point. I know very
many chaplains who are working constantly for the cause of Christ.
I know that a chaplain in a regiment is a man to whom all the rest of
the men look ; and if he be a good man, they love him and trust him :
they give him their money, they go to him in trouble, they go to him
in confidence, and he is the man of the regiment. But all I have to
say is, that I often mourn that in my command there are so few of
them." The most, happy, cordial, and profitable co-operation at present
exists between Chaplains and delegates of the Christian Commission ;
Chaplains receiving delegates with the utmost cordiality, and through
their experience and position, introducing them at once to the great
work. Delegates, fresh from home, with their books, their papers,
letters, their first love and zeal enlivening, cheering, and helping on
the good work, or opening up where as yet unstarted. Some gruffy
chaplain may still demur and look with suspicion-on any and all out
side aids and influences ; as may also some young delegate, so full of
zeal and himself, so persuaded that his mission, within six weeks, is to
convert the entire army, — as not only to ignore chaplains, but all other
26*

306 CAMP, MARCH and battle-field.
agencies save his own. These, however, at present, scarcely create a
ripple upon that blended and deeply-flowing river of beneficence into
our army, our navy, and among our freedmen, from chaplain service,
from the U. S. Christian and Sanitary Commissions, with many other
sources of spontaneous charity.
For more than a month after the disastrous battles of Chaneellor-
ville and Salem Heights, the army occupied its old position during the
winter. General Lee's movement towards Maryland and Pennsylvania,
in June, forced it, at length, to break up and leave those long-occu
pied banks of the Rappahannock. Long, long, wearying marches en
sued, during which General Hooker was superseded by General Meade.
Eai'ly in July, the two mighty hosts again met in fearful shock of
battle, at Gettysburg, and there slaughtered each other till both grew
weary. The enemy, unbroken, though worsted, sullenly retired from
the battle-field, our own too much exhausted speedily to follow. A
week after, they were once more confronted, near the old duel-ground
of Antietam, but from prudence, irresolution or fear, were not as
saulted. So quietly were they permitted to re-cross the Potomac, that
but a few hundred stragglers were picked up. Slowly, wearily, and
in different directions, we crossed again into Virginia. During all
these sultry, depressing marches and battles, no camp sketches were
penned — other work, to their utmost stretch, occupied the physical,
intellectual and moral being.

Camp near Falmouth, Va., April 15th, 1863.
Visit of Uncle Abe and Mrs. Abe. — Since my last, a
vast amount of military service has been performed by our
great army of the Potomac ; — not in the line of breaking rebel
heads, nor assaulting any of their strongholds, but in active
preparation for these laudable ends. Inspections and drills,
with reviews by company, regiment, brigade, division and corps,
are the daily business.

hooker's command. 307
Uncle Abe and Mrs. Abe were down, lately, for a number of
days together; and, what showings off were here and there!
Some of these reviews were certainly very magnificent and im
posing. Taken altogether, their equal has, perhaps, never be
fore been witnessed on this Western Continent. Well might
the plainly dressed President look proudly and with a gratified
air upon such a family of stalwart warrior sons. Whatever of
timber grew upon this undulating ground, occupied by our vast
encampments, has all been cut down for fire-wood and other
military purposes, so that an unobstructed view can be had for
miles together. On a pleasant day of last week, stretching far
over these bared hills and dales, every spot seemed alive and in
motion with the martial tread of armed men, moving with mea
sured steps, to enlivening strains of music from a hundred mi
litary bands. Artillery, by the hundred, cavalry, by the thou
sand, and infantry, without number.
Grand Military Review. — When all were ready, the
President and suite, with Gen. Hooker and staff, took position
on an elevated piece of ground, and the mighty host began to
file in review before and past them. On and on came the grand
cavalcade, by companies, by regiments, brigades, divisions and
corps, headed, each, by their respective commanders. From
whence came all these men ? would often suggest itself— rwhence
are they fed, clothed and armed, in this barren place ? Surely,
the resources of our glorious country must be inexhaustible.
As a result, from long practice and drill, the various military
evolutions were performed in perfect order and precision. The
uniforms of the soldiers seemed generally new, and their arms
glittered in the sunlight. All looked new, save the standards
of many regiments. Not a few of these were soiled and blood-

308
stained, some riddled with holes, and, occasionally, torn into
tatters, by bullets and exploding shells, on many a fiercely
fought battle-field. Yet, were these old, worn, and seemingly
worthless things, borne aloft, at the head of their regiments,
with greater pride than had they been new and of the most
costly fabric emblazoned with gems and gold.
Gen. Hooker. — Gen. Hooker has certainly performed won
ders, during his brief command. The army, when he took it,
was defeated, discouraged, querulous, and, to some degree, de
moralized. The contrast is now remarkable, and both gratify
ing and encouraging. One sensible order after another has
been quietly issued and enforced, until a very high degree of
efficiency, in order, drill and promptness, has been attained.
Not only this, but the soldiers seem universally to have the
fullest confidence in Gen. Hooker, and, also, in themselves.
My own opinion is, that no previous commander of this army
possessed the ability to effect such results in so short a time.
These things all augur well. What the result will be, time and
coming events will unfold. Gen. Hooker has not, as yet, fought
a great battle, nor, as commander-in-chief, conducted an active
campaign. Should the Lord grant him wisdom to execute
these as successfully as the things noticed, we are safe, and the
rebellion will soon be greatly compressed.
Weather. — For some days past the weather has been beau
tiful, being dry and clear; hence, the roads became hard and
even dusty. But, last night, a fierce rain-storm began to beat
upon our frail tabernacles, and so heavily does it continue, that,
as I write, this evening, scarcely any spot can he found where
the paper will not be wet by the rain beating through the can-

hooker's command. 309
vas. Any move now would be difficult. The general rule,
during the past season, has been, that when a storm commences,
from any given direction, it continues about three days and
nights. Religion. — As the season again seems to draw near when
armies go out to battle, our religious services, which we con
tinue every available evening, have, of late, become larger,
and evidently more interesting. We have, not unfrequently,
with us, good and practical assistance in our exercises from
members out of other regiments and corps. As our dear sol
diers may soon again be going to scenes of danger, bloodshed
and death, our earnest hope and prayer is, that God is fitting
them for these things by an effusion of His Holy Spirit.

Rappahannock, 2 Miles below Fredericksburg, 1
May-day, 1863. J
Winter-quarters Abandoned. — Three days since, we
finally broke up our old encampment, deserted our dear, little,
dingy .city, occupied, as an earthly habitation, since last Decem
ber, and were soon again on the banks of the Rappahannock.
Here, for three days and nights, we have been engaged in those
showy, exciting, yet little dangerous episodes of war, called skir
mishes. Occasional artillery duels have also taken place across
the little river between the rebel batteries and our own. In
these, hundreds of shells fly, scream, snort and burst, through
the air, yet, as there is far more noise than injury, we all enjoy
the pastime hugely. Why we thus delay so long in these sports

310 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
before engaging in the real tug of war, does not, as yet, seem
fully apparent. All, however, seem satisfied that every thing
goes on well.
Deep Religious Feeling. — To myself, the most comfort
ing circumstance of all has been, that, notwithstanding the
many excitements, the enemy's lines and intrenchments full in
view, the booming of their cannon rolling over the hills and
through the valleys, their shells occasionally screaming over or
bursting near us, yet, on each of these evenings just past, have
we held, immediately in front of our lines, large and deeply in
teresting religious meetings; full of comfort and strengthening
influences, beyond doubt, to many a brave heart.
Prayer-meeting under Fire of the Enemy. — At the
time of our last meeting a number of shells from the enemy
screamed over us, and several exploded or tore up the ground
near us, yet there was not the least apparent excitement or dis
traction in the large meeting, but all went on as usual to the
close. The occasion suggested a text from which I briefly
preached : "As thy days, so shall thy strength be."

Camp near Falmouth, May 13th, 1863.
A Baptism of Blood. — In my last there was mentioned a
series of interesting and precious meetings for prayer, and
worship, on the banks of the Rappahannock, below Fredericks
burg, while for several days skirmishing with the enemy con
tinued, and we awaited the real tug of war. Many, who joined

hooker's command. 311
in these exercises, I am fully persuaded, received from them a
baptism of the Spirit to prepare for scenes of self-devotion,
manly courage, bloodshed, and death, so soon to be passed
through. Of those, who so lately joined in these religious exer
cises, not a few have already stood at the bar of God in their
final account; more are languishing in various hospitals;
prisoners with the enemy, or their condition to us unknown.
A loneliness of feeling is experienced, while writing, as of one
bereft of children. In vain are loved and familiar forms, of
over two years' daily intercourse, now looked for in our sadly
diminished tent city. Fully the half of our regiment, which
crossed the river previously to the. late battles, have been either
killed, wounded or missing.
New Scenes. — To write of all the interesting, exciting, and
crowding events, which were compressed within two days and
three nights, would be impossible within the limits of a single
communication. Yet may a brief notice of our movements
as a regiment with its connections, be not only expected, but
prove interesting, and tend to give the reader some conception
of this desperate warfare.
Sixth Army Corps. — Our Corps — the 6th — was not with
Hooker, at Chancellorsville, but crossed the river two miles below
Fredericksburg, on_Saturday evening, May 2cL . After marching,
countermarching, and skirmishes all night, we found ourselves
on Sabbath morning at dawn in the rear of that famous old city,
the now deserted Fredericksburg ; and in the immediate front
of those formidable rebel works, from whence Burnside was so
disastrously repulsed last December. Our regiment, in company
with another, was ordered forward to try their works and strength,

312 CAMP, march and battle-field.
but found them, after a brief and bloody struggle, too formidable
for our inadequate numbers, and hence awaited reinforce
ments. Fairy Scenes — Sabbath Morning. — As the sun of that
beautiful Sabbath morning arose in its glorious beauty ; and as
final preparations were being made for a desperate and deter
mined assault upon the rebel works, I rode back through the
old city, and found it almost wholly deserted of its inhabitants;
the doors and windows all open. The desolute quietness was
almost painful. Passing on the lower skirts of the city, a long
and beautifully shaded gravel carriage-way was seen, leading to
a fine old and retired mansion. Riding along it to the dwelling,
a strange poetic, and fairy-like scene presented itself. The
grounds and gardens were beautifully laid out and adorned with
a great variety of ornamental trees and shrubbery, all now
budding into leaf and bloom. Through the branches of these,
hundred of birds were carolling forth their morning songs —
— joyous as though no war had ever desolated our sin-cursed
earth. Woodbines, honeysuckles, and roses, in their May
freshness twined over the arbors, colonnades, and porticos; yet
was there no sound of human voice or footsteps. Had super
stition been a ruling feeling, it might have been taken for a
place enchanted. The front door of the capacious old mansion
stood open. I entered, and the sound of my footsteps and voice
echoed strangely through the empty halls. The so late proud
and luxuriant occupants all gone. Poor Virginia. The far-
reaching terrors of this great revolution are as yet scarcely
realized by any.
On the old stone steps I sat me down and tried to realize that
it was the Sabbath — read a chapter, sang a psalm, and offered

hooker's command. 313
up a prayer for the speedy approach of peace founded upon
righteousness. Rapid and wonderful are the changes that war
often brings. Ere the sun had well passed his meridian, this
quiet grandeur and solemn silence were all gone. This old
mansion became a large hospital. The halls within were filled,
and the grass plots without were covered with wounded, muti
lated, and dying men.
Assault. — About 11 a. m., all was in readiness for a final
and desperate assault upon the rebel strongholds. A scene of
terrible grandeur immediately ensued, which has seldom been
equalled in the excitements, the horrors, and the achievements-
of war. An open field, some fifty rods across, lay between our
now marshalled and devoted columns, and the rebel works.
This ground rises gradually at an elevation of some eight or ten
degrees, till it reaches the front line of rebel intrenchments, or
rifle pits. Behind, and more abruptly rising above this, is a
second line of earthen defences ; and finally on the top of the
ridge, their intrenched batteries. Our regiment was on the left,
and supporting the assaulting column. At the signal to move,
the soldiers raised a general cheer, and started off at double
quick, up and across the open ground. In an instant. the whole
rebel works were in a blaze of fire, with a cloud of smoke, and
from them a rain of leaden death was poured upon our ad
vancing columns, and the earth strewn with the wounded and
the dying, even as grass before the scythe of the mower. Yet on
they pressed at a brisk run, with fixed bayonets, and none
waiting to fire a gun. The flag of each regiment was proudly
carried in front by its sturdy standard-bearer. When one of
these fell, the emblem was snatched up by another, and still
borne on. Still onward pressed the columns, each seemingly
27

314 camp, march and battle-field.
intent to be ahead, and enter first the rebel works. Every
yard of advance was strewn witlj the fallen. It was a moment
of unutterable excitement. A life-time seemed compressed into
a few minutes.
Storming St. Mary's Heights. The first line of earth
works was reached. Our soldiers, now, without any special
attention to military order, the stronger having gotten ahead,
scrambled, as a flock of sheep, up and over the embankment,
and bounded into the ditch, bayoneting or capturing its rebel
occupants. Then with a shout the second line above was
similarly carried in triumph; and finally, accompanied with
tremendous cheers from the whole corps, the upper tier of
works, with their batteries, which had made such havoc in our
ranks, were taken at the point of the bayonet. As soon as the
old stars and stripes were seen to wave over the highest rampart,
both officers and privates seemed wrought up to the highest
possible human excitement. The feelings of many seemed too
deep and strong even for cheers, yet scarcely an eye was dry.
Field of Slaughter. — I rode on horseback with our regi
ment till the last works were stormed, and the firing ceased.
Then giving my horse in charge of a wounded soldier, I turned
back over the field of mutilation and death. What a price at
which to pirrchase a -few earthen ditches ! Such a scene no
poet could describe, no1, sp.encil delineate, no pen give any ade
quate conception. Such horrors must be seen in order to be
realized. For hours I busied myself in bringing into a right
position this arm broken and bent under the fallen body;
straightening that mangled leg ; binding up the fractured head ;
tying a handkerchief or canteen cord above some jetting artery f

hooker's command. 315
turning into a more easy position this poor fellow, whose
fountain of life was fast oozing out from a fatal wound ; and all
the while speaking such words of comfort, direction, and en
couragement, as the occasion and case suggested. During the
morning I had obtained two bottles of wine from Mrs. Harris
and Beck, of Philadelphia, at the Lacy House, across the river.
Having these in my pockets, a few spoonfuls were poured into
the mouths of those seeming most faint ; thus over twenty were
refreshed before all was gone. So calmly did many of our
dear young men lie in their last sleep, that not a few were
taken hold of, in order to arouse and assist, before becoming
convinced that they were dead.
This daring, bloody and successful assault upon the rebel
works the most prominent point of which was called St. Mary's
Heights, was made about 11 A. m., on Sabbath! What a
business for God's holy day of rest! May our merciful Redeemer
in all coming time deliver us from another such Sabbath.
No Rest. — -Our already exhausted troops were not allowed
to occupy the captured heights and exult over their dear-bought
victory even for five minutes ; but were hurried on after the
retreating enemy, who had taken the plank road leading to
Chancellorsville distant about ten miles. There, Hooker's and
Lee's armies were, at the same time, engaged in a fierce and
bloody struggle. We leave for military critics to determine the
propriety of a single corps without succor, connections, or
reserves hurrying up in the rear of a sagacious and determined
enemy at least 100,000 strong. The pursuit was continued
three or four miles. The rebels halting, the mean while, on
each rising ground or hill-top to throw shells into our advancing
columns.

316 CAMP, march and battle-field.
Gathering the Fragments. — I remained upon the battle
field of the forenoon some three hours until the ambulance
corps and stretcher-bearers made their appearance, when our
wounded were gradually gathered up as sheaves after reapers,
and conveyed to empty houses in the desolate old city. The
slain were also gathered into groups for a rude and hasty
burial. These things accomplished, my horse was mounted, the
course of our Division followed, and overtaken about three
miles advanced, at 5 p. M. It was being formed in order of
battle for another terrible struggle, fierce and bloody as any of
the war. As since ascertained from General Lee's despatches,
having repulsed and silenced the ill-starred Hooker at Chancel
lorsville, he was at this time largely re-enforcing the enemy in
our front, who were occupying a strong position called Salem
Heights. A low range of hills crossed at right angles the plank
road on which we advanced. A forest of pine trees with a
dense under-growth covered these hills. Sheltered in and by
these woods the rebels took position to the right and left of the
road. Our approach was across open farms.
Battle of Salem Heights. — Our regiment with its con
nection was on the right, and ordered up with directions, by a
flank movement, to brush the rebels out of the thick woods.
This effort, however, proved somewhat like the Russian soldier,
who in close conflict had seized a stalwart Tartar. " Captain,"
he shouted, " I've caught a Tartar." " Then bring him along."
" Yes, but, Captain, he won't let me."
Soon these hitherto quiet woods rolled up dense volumes of
sulphurous smoke, and seemed almost rent asunder by the
crack, and crash, and rattle of small arms. Our regiment pene
trated into the thick woods; and there, almost commingling

HOOKER'S COMMAND. 317
with the rebels, each poured continuous and deadly volleys into
each other. We remained in the bloody struggle for an hour
and twenty minutes, till the men had exhausted nearly all their
ammunition; some of them having fired as much as fifty times.
Being at length relieved by other' regiments, we fell back into
the open field; yet left in the woods, O, so many dear friends,
yet unburied, for aught we know, among the pine and cedar
bushes, — we not being able to return in order to claim our dead;
while a number are missing ahout whose real condition we are
yet ignorant.
Wearied with Slaughter. — As darkness approached, by
seeming mutual consent, the work of slaughter ceased; when
friend and foe, equally exhausted, threw -themselves upon the
ground to sleep in close proximity to each other, — all expecting
to renew the havoc of death by the light of another morning.
Monday came, however, and we lay much in the same position
nearly all day, without a renewal of the struggle. Ominous
signs, however, to one familiar with battle movements, betokened
throughout the day that the rebels were being largely rein
forced: Lee's despatches since reveal the fact that half the
rebel army was then gathering round our single corps for its
certain destruction or sure capture. Towards evening a sud
den and furious assault was made_upon our centre, yet repelled
with immense slaughter. At dark a retrograde movement —
retreat — commenced, in order, if possible,, to recross the river.
The road to Fredericksburg, along which we advanced, as well
as the heights which, had been taken with such bloodshed, were
now effectually re-occupied by the rebels. But one way of es
cape was left, and that across a rough country to Banks' Ford:
five miles above Fredericksburg, where a pontoon bridge had

318 camp, march and battle-field.
been erected. When the order to fall back was given, our regi
ment was in the extreme front, next the enemy. By some
oversight of drunken generals, cowardly aids, or ignorant or
derlies, we received no notice of the fact, nor any orders to fall
back, and of course still maintained our position against the
enemy. All the rest of the corps fell back at 9 P. m., while
our regiment, at 11 P. M., was closely beset in the front, on the
left, and in the rear by large masses of the rebels.
Perilous Situation. — The first distinct intimation and
conception we obtained of our strange and perilous position
was from a rebel prisoner. A jolly, original son of Erin, be
longing to the 62d New York, while near us* with his company
on picket, chanced to capture a rebel picket, who proved to be a
countryman of his own from a Mississippi regiment, and
abounding also in waggish naivete and jolly independence.
Not being able to find his own company, which by the way was
all captured, our New York friend, with his prisoner, attached
himself to our regiment. No sooner were these two, already
cronies, seated upon the ground in the rear, than did they begin
to compare notes and banter each other in that inimitable style
peculiar to the sons of Erin. "Ye may thank yer stars," says
Reb., "that I didn't chance to see yes first." "An' what if ye
had," says Union, "can't I .shoot twice for your wonst, any
day ?"- Ere long, however, it was definitely settled that each
of them was a clever fellow, and that it was altogether an acci
dent that one should have taken the other prisoner. Reb. be
gan to feel quite at home and became sympathetic. " An' sure,"
he ejaculates, "isn't it the greater the pithy, that the North
and the South should have gone to fightin' in this way? Hadn't
they been such fools, they could have thrashed all creation."

hooker's command. 319
All this while he was quietly hitching himself round behind a
large stump, and getting it between himself and the direction of
his fellow rebels. " An' what are you being after doin' ?" says
his captor. "Bein' after? an' sure, ain't Anderson's whole
division jist beyond yes there, in the woods, an' Only waitin' for
moonlight to make the charge upon ye." He was assured that
we were not in special dread of Anderson and his division.
" An' whither ye be afeared of him or no, I tell ye that in
about tin minutes ye'll be standin' on the hottest piece of ground
ye iver occupied." An evident fear of fellow rebel bullets in
the darkness caused him to reveal so much.
Council of War. — Wisely considering, as of yore, that it
was lawful to be taught by an enemy, additional skirmishers
were sent out, who soon discovered abundance of rebels, yet not
even a company of our own troops. An impromptu council of
war was at once held, by which our New York friend was di
rected to take his prisoner and endeavor to regain his own re
giment. This, we afterwards learned, he accomplished for
himself, but not with his captive. As the two trudged along
in the dark, reb. suddenly, stumbled and fell, refusing, against
all urgency* of his captor, to rise. The use of the bayonet was
quietly hinted, as a stimulus, but to no purpose. " Sure," he
ejaculated, " ain't my neck broke altogether, an' my ankle out
of joint. If I walk a step farther, ye must carry me." The
near approach of the rebels induced our friend of the 62d to
hasten on alone, leaving his prisoner, soon, no doubt, with re-
jointed neck and ankle, to join his rebel companions and enter
tain them with his adventures.

320 camp, march and battle-field.
Council Adjourned. — Our council of war was terminated
in a summary manner, by the rapid approach of an overwhelm
ing rebel force; whose long lines, as they approached through
the darkness of midnight, seemed like dim rows of spectres.
When within easy range, a heavy volley of musketry was
poured upon us, and, at the same time, a general shout, cheer,
scream or yell, went up from the rebel ranks. This strange,
curious, unearthly sound, seems peculiar to Johnny Reb. The
nearest transfer into print may be by " Ki-yi — ki-yi — H-yi,"
with a vigorous screech on the "yi." This, uttered in the
darkness of night, amid the crash of fire-arms, and by a flushed
and determined enemy, who, at the time, must have been thirty
to our one, had, it must be confessed, somewhat of terror con
nected therewith.
We all seemed suddenly to feel the force and propriety of that
soldierly epigram: ' ' That, he wIlj fights and runs away,
May live to fight another day."
A retreat was determined on. The rebels being in strong
force in front, in our rear, and upon our left, but one possible
way of escape was left, and that seemingly almost hopeless,
through a cedar swamp, woods, and under-brush* over logs,
fences, and ditches — across fields, hills, and valleys, several
miles to the Rappahannock, where a pontoon-bridge was said to
be constructed, but just where, none of us knew. Off we started,
keeping as well together, and in as good order as the darkness
and numerous obstructions, together with the shouts and vol
leys of a fast-pursuing enemy, would admit. Being myself
mounted, it seemed a matter of special doubt whether a norse
could, by any possibility, get through the way we were forced
to go. As we struggled through" the cedar swamp, several of

hooker's command. 321
my young friends, who were floundering along on foot, assured
me that if I expected to get away, I must dismount, and aban
don the horse. To this the generous animal seemed to have a
decided objection. Getting into the spirit of the affair, she
leaped over logs, fences, and ditches, in a manner which would
have done credit to a fox hunter. After a retreat, worthy of Xe-
nophen's descriptive pen, we rejoined our corps ere it crossed
the river, some time between midnight and the dawn.
Jack a Prisoner. — Several times, during our retreat, Jack,
our regimental dog, came alongside of my horse, turned up his
curious doggish eyes, the shining of which could be seen, not
withstanding the darkness; whine in a distressed and peculiarly
uneasy manner — then ran backwards and forwards, to right and
left, came back near me, and repeated his uneasy gestures and
noise, as much as to say — " Chaplain, my doggish head can't
exactly comprehend the present state of affairs; something out
of joint about all this business. Can't you enlighten this old
soldier?" Poor Jack, however, with all his uneasiness, soon got sadly
at fault — wandered in the dark with a squad of the men, and
was taken prisoner. With his fellow-prisoners to Richmond,
Jack was, however, ere long paroled or exchanged; got safely
to Annapolis ; thence to his old home and haunts in Pittsburg,
and finally back in front to the regiment; where he assumed
his former position with as much familiarity and dignity as
though he had never been a captive.
BiJble and Knapsack. — During the rugged and forced re
tirement from the battle-field of Salem Heights, our boys, in tbe
darkness, divested themselves of almost every incumbrance, save

822 camp, march and battle-field.
their guns ; knapsacks, haversacks, canteens, all went, in order
to get through the swamps and ditches, over the fences, and
through the thick woods. When seemingly beyond the reach
of the enemy, and huddling along a narrow road down the steep
bank of the Rappahannock, my horse being pressed on all sides
by a thick mass of our men, the darkness, however, being so
great one could not be distinguished from his fellow, the hoys
commenced, in an under-tone, to talk over their mishaps, their
losses, their adventures, and narrow escapes. "My knapsack,
haversack, and canteen, all gone," says one. "And mine,"
"and mine," "and mine," chime in others. "And my cap in
company," adds another. " Glad to get myself zmay ," responds
his fellow. " Why," says" one, addressing by name a well-known
soldier, "you have your knapsack along, — how's that?" "Mr
Bible was in," responded the sturdy young veteran, as he
trudged along in the darkness, " else would it have been thrown
away a dozen, times."
Dear, precious, blessed Bible, would that every soldier prized
thee so well ! Did every soldier in our armies so love his Bible,
this rebellion would long since have been put down.

MEADE'S CAMPAIGN IN VIRGINIA. 32S

CHAPTER IX.
IfUadtf'g eUtttwaiflttis itt fiftjittia.
JULY— MAY.
Warrenton, Va., July 28th, 1864.
Forty-five days' march. — During the past forty-five days,
since finally breaking up our old camp at Falmouth, it may be
literally, without figure of speech, asserted, no time has been
allowed for writing. What of marchings and countermarchings
— marches under burning suns and amid clouds of dust —
marches in the darkness»of the night with torrents of rain and
continents of mud, looking after the sick, the wounded, the
dying and the dead; more than the moments of an ordinary
existence seem to have been occupied. During all this time
hardly ever two days or nights in one place or same position.
If any uncertain time was allowed for rest or sleep, the weary
body was thrown down on the road or beside it, in the open
fields or woods, and generally without any attempted shelter.
Concerning us, of late, the poet could truthfully sing,
"War and chase,
Give little chance for resting-place."
Miscellaneously have we perambulated through various counties
in Virginia, thence across into, here and there, through much of
Maryland; then a short round, into dear old Pennsylvania,

324 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
back again and round about through Maryland ; and now once
more recrossed that Rubicon of a Potomac ; and after more than
a week of wandering by night and by day through valleys and
over mountains, into gaps and gorges, across fields and through
the woods in search of, or by endeavors to head Gen. Lee in his
retreat, we are at length halted near Warrenton.
Gettysburg an Episode. — That harvest of death and
mutilation at Gettysburg, the gleanings of which the benevolent
have been so industriously and kindly gathering up, and
binding, constitutes, after all, but an episode in this late cam
paign. The Herculean labors and untold fatigues uncom
plainingly endured by the soldiers, are not likely ever fully to
be written. Those, having never seen nor felt, could hardly be
made to understand these by any labored description. An
intelligent legal friend from Pennsylvania, who added himself
to our regiment, and spent a week while lately in Maryland —
marched, ate, slept in camp — when leaving us at the Potomac
on recrossing into Virginia, declared, that his week's experi
ence had been worth a life-time's reading — otherwise, even by
the most laborious and accurate descriptions, he would have
remained in almost total ignorance of the strange reality.
The March. — Those, who have most carefully noted, esti
mate that during this time, besides the fighting, together with
other multiplied duties and toils, our 6th corps — and this is
an average of others — has marched three hundred and fifty
miles. Marched ? What is comprehended in the march of a
great army under the burning suns of July ? Will our rugged
farmers, who sweat in the harvest field, or tradesmen who daily
put forth strong muscular effort at their ordinary business,

MEADE'S CAMPAIGN IN VIRGINIA. 325
believe me when assuring them, that were the strongest from
among their number for the first time to be arrayed with what
each soldier daily and for long hours and many miles carries —
knapsack, haversack, gun, ammunition box, canteen, tin cup,
coffee boiler with various other et cetera, weighing in all about
as much as a bushel of wheat — and he thus accoutered started
at the middle of a hot July day, on a dusty road, amid a thick
and smothering crowd of men, horses, mules, and wagons ; in
less than a mile he would fall prostrate to the earth and per
haps never rise again. It has, however, taken two years of
terrible practice to inure these iron men to undergo this
wonderful physical endurance. Nor must it be forgotten, that
in the hardening process, two out of three have sunk under the
toil and exposure, and have disappeared from the army.
Mode of Marching. — Our mode of marching for many
days, during the late campaign, has been after the following
fashion. Stretched out in a single road and in close marching-
order, the army of the Potomac with its infantry, cavalry,
artillery, ambulances, and wagon trains, would extend a distance
of forty miles ; so where the front may now be, it would, in
ordinary marches, take several days for the rear to reach. In
order to facilitate matters, keep the army more compact, and
be able to act more speedily in concert, as lately at Gettysburg,
several columns usually start together on different roads leading
in the same general direction. Not only this, but of late it has
been usual for the artillery, ambulances and wagons to take the
road, and if a turnpike or wide thoroughfare, wagons and
artillery go abreast, and the infantry column take a course in
the vicinity and parallel with the road — through fields and
woods, down into deep glens and hollows, up steep bluffs and
28

326 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
over high hills, through unbridged marshes, ponds and creeks'.
Along such a course it is often quite as easy for the footman as
for us who are on horseback.
Interesting. — The eye never wearies in its interest with
ever-varying scenes constantly presenting themselves on these
marches. Long miles of artillery — a cannon with its six
horses followed by its caisson and its six horses, and others
and others— strings of neat two-horse ambulances reaching
out of sight, and army wagons without seeming number or
end — with those on foot; great streams of living men, which
those remaining stationary sometimes imagine will never all
pass. A strange fascination has it, at least to the writer, often
on the march when getting on some eminence and looking
forward for miles at that dark column, four abreast, winding
down into valleys; up over hills, across fields, orchards and
meadows — away, away, and hiding itself in some dense woods
far off. Looking back, the same curious bewitching vision
meets the eye.' A vast living moving anaconda, encircling
and seemingly about to crush the earth within'its folds. At
a mile's distance the motion of the column cannot readily be
discerned; but fixing the eye on a stationary object in close
proximity, you at once discern that it actually lives and moves.
Blackberries. — What say our Northern gardeners, small
fruit raisers, farmers, hucksters, aud market women, to a pro
posal for furnishing the entire Potomac army, officer and
private, say sixty thousand, with a gallon of large, fresh, deli
cious blackberries, amounting in the aggregate to at least two
thousand barrels. Well, this seeming unattainable commis
sary feat has been actually accomplished; and that in the most

meade's campaign in Virginia. 327
easy and systematic manner — each one has gathered his own
gallon. "But how and where could such a multitude find
room and the berries? In a blackberry patch, of course.
But how big was it ? A whole section of country — thousands
of acres — -a large number of farms along the southeast spurs
of the Blue Ridge, and in the vicinity of Ashby's, Manassas
and Chester Gaps, have by some process, (whether of good
farming or not, our thrifty yeomen of the North can judge,)
been converted into a vast "blackberry patch, consisting of
both upright bushes and creeping vines. On the arrival and
encampment of our weary, jaded, and foot-sore army, these vast
acres were fairly black with large delicious berries. Such a
God-send in addition to army grub — an unexpected, refreshing,
joyous luxury ! All distinctions were speedily forgotten ;
swords, cannon and bayonets, were for the time laid aside in
order to cultivate the arts of peace. General and private, each
for himself, went to picking berries. An interesting, curious,
and exciting scene was it, to see a whole country side — hill and
dale, field and wood, covered with men all intent upon one
object — picking berries. The tribes of Israel, gathering manna
around their encampment, could hardly have presented a sight
more full of interest. After eating to satisfaction, hats, caps,
haversacks, handkerchiefs, pockets, tin-cups, coffee-boilers, and
even camp kettles, were brought into requisition and filled for
domestic purposes. Better this, as a hygiene to our army, than
all the calomel, quinine, pills and plasters, in Christendom.
The noise about Lawton, New Rochelle, and such like
blackberries may as well cease; as, in this matter, the Old
Dominion excels. Seeing this grand old State will be pretty
well depopulated by the time the war ends, we propose, for the
future peace of the country, that its entire area be converted

328 camp, march and battle-field.
into a huge blackberry patch — that our ambitious fruit-grow
ers form a company, build a railroad from the extreme North
through this section for the express purpose of transporting
blackberries, and thus be able to supply annually each <of the
twenty millions in the free States with, at least, a gallon.
Cold Bathing. — Here, the writer came well nigh receiving
his discharge from •• chaplain service — a long furlough from
earthly duties. After halting here, felt greatly in need and very
desirous of some purifying process. Though excessively hot,
mounted and rode some distance from camp, where one of those
glorious springs was chanced upon, which occasionally flow out
from the mountain bases of old Virginia — a great volume of
clear, cold, sparkling water, welled up beneath the shade of
some fine old trees. Was soon in the welling waters, and for
a long while rolled, and splashed, and dipped, and floundered
in the cold, delicious element. Was reminded at length that
too much of the good thing might prove injurious — dressed
and rode back to camp, feeling occasional chills. At sun-down
sudden pain in the chest and stomach — cramps, awful pain
with suffocation ; congestive chill ; limbs paralyzed ; life hiding
itself away in a small space of the body around the heart —
kind surgeons and friends anxious and doubtful — all the stimu
lants within reach poured into and applied externally to the
body. Sleep at length came — awoke about midnight with
clothes and blankets wet with perspiration — well. Breakfasted
next morning as usual with no apparent ill effects. The
episode is mentioned to warn Hydropathists, with all other
theorists, that too much may he made of a good thing — and
also, that God may suddenly chastise His creatures for their
ignorance and imprudence.

MEADE'S CAMPAIGN IN VIRGINIA. 329
Warrenton. — This place, with its present condition and
connections, is no doubt a fair sample of all the large towns in
Eastern Virginia. It is the seat of justice for Fauquier
County, and located beautifully on the summit of an elevated
ridge of land. Before the war it must have been a place of
very considerable attractions. The principal street consists of'
fine old Virginia mansions, detached from each other, with
pleasant grass-plots in front, and, what is not common in this
region, both sides of the streets lined with fine old shade trees.
In. Dixie estimation, a wealthy, refined, exceedingly aristocratic,
— thorough F. F.,V. place, — secesh to the core.
Riding through this place, a short time since, I chanced to
meet an intelligent-looking old gentleman, a rebel resident,
and felt constrained to accost him, and if possible have a free
and friendly conversation. The military salute was accordingly
given, and by him in a seemingly friendly manner returned.
My connection with the army was stated, accompanied by a
request that, leaving out for the present Union and Confede
rate, wars and revolutions, we would have a social chat about
Warrenton and its conditions, past and present. " No objec
tions, at all," was his reply. " Please dismount !" Seated on
the edge of the side-walk, under the shade of a large elm, we
had together a long and free communion. From this, more
real insight was obtained with respect to the actual condition of
things — the thorough and entire revolution which has already
taken place — the breaking up and scattering of all the old
elements of Southern society, than could otherwise have been
gained by long personal observation.
My first question was about the Churches. " We had, he
said, pointing to the building of each as named, Presbyterian,
Baptist, Methodist, Episcopal and Catholic — all respectable

330
congregations. All preaching stopped many months ago—
the ministers are starved out and gone ; the congregations
wholly scattered, and the houses of worship taken for hospitals,
guard-houses or barracks." ,
" How do the remaining inhabitants continue to live — how
do they obtain food or any thing with which to buy ?" "Look,"
he continued, " at the different classes of houses. As you
observe, nearly every good house is inhabited — the wife, child
ren and family are here ; but the men are gone into the Con
federate army, are in some way connected with the government,
or fled away at your late approach — very many never to return,
for many are already dead.
" The inferior houses and negro quarters are nearly all
empty. There is not a store, grocery, mechanic-shop, or any
place of business, open in and around Warrenton. The store
keepers, grocers, mechanics and laborers, had their business
all broken up by the war ; and are driven away, the men into
the Southern army, and their families, the Lord knows where ;
I do not. As to the negroes, you know perhaps better where
they are gone than I could tell you. This better class of
families, the remnants of which are still here, nearly every one
owns or did own a farm in the adjacent country. From these
they have contrived to live till the coming of your army a few
weeks since ; now, however, every resource seems taken away.
I have a farm, he said, pointing to a place about a mile distant :
till lately I managed to keep a few slaves and do a little farm
ing. When your army camped here the last of July, I had
four work oxen, three colts — horses all pressed into the South
ern army — so many cows, sheep, pigs and poultry, with forty
acres corn coming into ear ; now there is not a slave, a domes
tic animal, a fowl, or an ear of corn left — all taken by your

MEADE'S CAMPAIGN IN VIRGINIA. 331
soldiers — and this is about the condition of all the other
families here.' So long as the Union army remains here, we
may contrive to live ; but when it is away, I have no conception
how the people, who will be left, can obtain food to sustain life
during the eoming winter." With thanks to my old Secesh
friend for our freedom in converse, and hopes expressed for the
dawning of better times upon him and his, we parted.

White Sulphur Springs, Fauquier Co., Va.
Our camp was lately moved a few miles west from Warren
ton, and we are now in the immediate vicinity of this old, fa
shionable, and justly celebrated summer retreat and watering-
place — the White Sulphur Springs. Here, in years gone by,
and up to the breaking out of the present rebellion, assembled
annually, on the arrival of hot weather, the chivalry, the nobi
lity, and the literati of the South, commingled with an occa
sional copperhead from the North, in order not only to drink of
these waters, but to concoct, arrange, and consolidate schemes
of treason — here to decide upon and mature plans for operating
in the next Congress for cajoling, brow-beating, leading, driving,
or bullying Northern Representatives into their nefarious mea
sures. These Springs are in Fauquier county, seven miles
south-west from Warrenton, and near the main road from that
place to Culpeper.
These waters are so impregnated with sulphur as to be scented
at some distance, and the impression given that their source
must be far beneath.
The principal hotel, judging from its charred ruins and re-

332 camp,
maining brick walls, must have been a massive, elegant, and
commodious building, furnishing accommodations for several
hundred visitors. A year since, and during the skirmish pre
ceding the second battle of Bull Run, this building was set on
fire by the contending forces, and entirely consumed.
Books. — An arrival extraordinary, some days since, in the
shape of a box about twenty inches square, and packed with a
choice selection of books, proved a real Godsend, and was to us
a source of much rejoicing. They were books — not tracts, or
pamphlets, periodicals, or little volumes for children's reading —
but books, handsomely bound, varying in value from a quarter
to a dollar and a quarter. Good friends, who make liberal pro
vision for reading matter to the army, seem often to make a
mistake with respect to what is sent. . This has generally been
small reading matter; so much so, that the same matter has
once and again been distributed to the same regiment. Such
have lost their interest for power and good. Here may be ex
cepted weekly religious newspapers, (not old numbers,) which
are always in place. It should be remembered that we have
men in the army — educated, reading, thinking men — many of
whom have been more than two years deprived of access to a
library. Let individual friends, who may read this, and have
a book they would wish a husband, son, brother, or friend in
camp to read, yet no box in which to send, wrap the same in a
strong paper, leaving one end open, direct it as a letter, paying
the postage, which will be a trifle, and in almost every instance
it will reach the soldier safely and speedily.
Literary Classes in Camp. — Whether a new feature of
camp life and exercises or not, at least to myself both pleasing

meade's campaign in Virginia. 333
and interesting has been the organization, not long since, of a
large class, for the study of English grammar, and also a simi
lar one for recitations in Latin. Our class in grammar already
numbers thirty, and is still increasing. Some experience has
been mine in the capacity of teacher, but never before in con
nection with a class so full of pleasing interest. At 1, p. m.,
each day, save the Sabbath, when not interfered with by mili
tary duties, the class assembles — all stalwart men, officers and
privates, veteran soldiers from a dozen fiercely contested battle
fields — all eager for the acquisition of knowledge — squat them
selves on the ground near my little shelter tent, and shaded by
a clump of young chestnuts. Between one and two hours are
spent at a sitting. All the sciences and branches of knowledge
having the most remote connection or bearing upon grammar,
and some even without any, are introduced as helps in our mu
tual efforts to give and receive instruction. By the time this
rebellion is settled, we promise the good friends at home an
alumni of grammarians, competent to fill the position of County
Superintendent of Public Schools, or any other position where
useful and accurate knowledge is requisite.
At 4, p. M., we have a class of half a dozen in Latin — some
of whom, my hope is, will yet preach the gospel of Christ.
Every thing which can interest, and profitably occupy spare
time in camp, proves an unspeakable blessing. True yet as
when first written — -
" Satan finds some mischief still,
For idle hands to do."
Regimental Bible-Class. — About 3, p. m., on Sabbath,
the shade of some friendly tree is sought to shield us from a

334 CAMP, march and battle-field.
scorching August sun. The writer seats himself upon a stone,
stump, or more generally squats upon the ground, a la Turk, —
a mode of sitting now felt to be quite comfortable. Around
him assembles a large class, officers and privates, all grown men,
who likewise squat on the ground. A chapter or two in the
Bible is read verse about, a brief and running comment on the
whole passage is given, — and then, beginning at some point in
the circle, a question on the passage is asked of each, going en
tirely around. These questions often elicit others from various
members, thus giving life and interest to the whole exercises.
Our soldiers, who, in any measure, love to read God's book,
need the whole Bible, and by all means this should be a refe
rence Bible. No more acceptable or profitable present could be
sent by mail to a friend in camp than a small reference Bible — i
thin, so as to be carried in the side-pocket of his blouse.
Division Worship. — On Saturday afternoon last I received,
through an Orderly, from General A. P. Howe, our division
commander, a request to call some time during the evening at
head-quarters. Having no conception of the business when
calling, yet was I most agreeably surprised on being thus ac
costed by our General: "Chaplain, to-morrow morning (Sab
bath) we are to have a special review and general inspection of
the whole division, in connection with the artillery. Would it
not be well, at its close, to have a brief religious service?"
" Certainly, General, and exceedingly glad to hear from you the
suggestion. When shall it be, and how?" "I will mass the
troops together, and you will lead us in prayer, — suflicient to
begin with. No caviller can reasonably object to this, for the
Lord knows we all need to be prayed for badly enough."
Accordingly, at the close of the review and inspection, the

MEADE S CAMPAIGN IN VIRGINIA. 335
entire division — thirteen regiments — was brought into solid
mass, closely flanked by three batteries of artillery — a magnifi
cent sight. The soldiers all in their best attire, with burnished,
glittering armor, — officers, also, all in holiday costume — a forest
of bayonets, and a sea of faces. Seated on horseback in the
centre, so as to be seen, and, if possible, heard, I endeavored to
raise the voice loud enough, so as to reach over the assembled
thousands, while confessing our sins, and invoking the Lord's
pardoning mercy and unmerited blessings.
Military Execution. — Although familiar with scenes of
wholesale slaughter, instantaneous death, with all possible forms
of human mutilation, yet inexpressibly sad is it, almost even to
trembling and sickness, to witness calm, quiet, and deliberate
preparations being made to shoot a 'soldier, — the grave dug, an
empty coffin carried and laid beside it, a whole division formed
in hollow square around these; an angle of the square opening
to let in an open wagon bringing the doomed man, and as it
enters the lines all the bands striking up a solemn dirge — the
wagon at the grave, the condemned taken out, tied hand and
foot with eyes bandaged, and seated upon the coffin ; a file of
ten soldiers within a few paces with aimed rifles, at the word
"Fire!" riddle the body with bullets, and in a moment dismiss
the trembling spirit into the presence of its God. The division
march past for each soldier to gaze upon the ghastly body, —
when all have passed, placed in the coffin, lowered into the earth,
and covered up. Such is a military execution; such was wit
nessed in the Sixth Corps on Saturday last; crime, desertion —
a military offence so grave, that unless thus sternly checked,
our army might soon be disbanded.

336 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.

White Sulphur Springs, Virginia, 1
September, 1863. }
Drunkenness in the Army. — As a dream comes from a
multitude of thoughts, even so has the above heading from the
enormous quantities of bad whiskey now daily guzzled in the
various camps by our officers. In writing this, it is not forgot
ten, that the charge made by Joseph against his brethren, on
their first visit to Egypt for corn, was not an enviable one: —
"Ye are spies; to see the nakedness of the land are ye come."
To write with any freedom on the suggested theme, may not
unlikely subject the venturesome epistolary to a similar charge,
from certain quarters: "Ye are spying out and exposing the
nakedness of the land." In such a case, the extenuating plea
will be: "He has no pleasure in the deed, being himself at
tached to the army, and jealous for its honor and good name."
Much of the reality, moreover, will remain unwritten, and no
thing set down in malice — done, in order to assist in arresting,
if possible, the alarming evil.
Had the pastors oP our various churches any adequate con
ception as to the present enormity of the evil, they would surely
cry aloud, and spare not, until some remedy be found. Did
Christian, loyal, country-loving citizens know of the unblushing-
drunkenness among so many officers in the army, and the seem
ing danger of all being ingulfed in a common drunken ruin,
they would, with united and sleepless importunity, besiege Con
gress, the President, Secretary of War, Commander-in-chief,
Quartermaster General, etc., to unite in closing up, at once, each
and every official flood-gate through which such immense quan
tities of bad whiskey now flow into the army.

MEADE'S CAMPAIGN IN VIBGINIA. 337
How Obtained. — "But how," some one may ask, "is so
large an amount of intoxicating drink obtained, to create such
an amount of drunkenness ? Did not Congress, some years since,
abolish whiskey rations in the army 1" Perhaps so ; yet certain
it is that, by some authority, whiskey rations are occasionally
issued to every soldier, and whiskey, without stint, is at all times
officially furnished to commissioned officers. By an army re
gulation, eommissioned officers can purchase from the Brigade
Commissary, by personal application or by written order, for
his own use, at Government prices, whatever provisions may be
on hand, after rations have been furnished the private soldiers.
A Brigade Commissary would hear less complaint from officers
for lack of bread, meat, coffee and sugar, than of whiskey. It
must be always on hand. Our Brigade Commissariats have
thus become extensive retail whiskey establishments ; all fur
nished by the Government. A barrel often issued by the can
teen — about three pints, at fifty cents — just as fast as the Com
missary's clerk can measure it.
Results. — The results are fast becoming most deplorable.
Our American character is proverbially excitable, and without
due restraint may readily run into any extreme. The ennui of
camp life to the volunteer officer becomes often hard to endure.
The excitement from strong drink, thus so easily obtained and
always on hand, soon becomes a ready and frequent resort. The
ruinous habit of having whiskey almost invariably produced,
when one officer calls upon another, — impolite, almost an in
sult, otherwise — the moral restraints of home, family, and social
life all wanting, it need hardly be wondered at, that from for
mer sobriety, frequent drunkenness ensues as a ready conse
quence. Of late, I tremble for any young friend, who gets an
29

338 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
advancement from the ranks to the possession of a commission.
Those at home who may have a husband, son, or brother thus
promoted, had better put on sackcloth and keep a long fast in
dread of his near and utter ruin. The vortex seems so over
whelming that he who -escapes must be well favored of Heaven.
Beastly — no; I beg the beasts' pardon; manly drunken
ness, among the officers, has become unblushing, and no appa
rent effort or even thought of any accountability. A few days
since, a regiment of our brigade, having completed its first year
of service, must needs have a celebration over the event; in
other words, an official drunk. ZTwmanly sports — such as
climbing greasy poles and catching pigs with greased tails — ¦
were provided for the privates. A barrel of whiskey, consti
tuted part of the official repast. Many shoulder-straps from
neighboring regiments were present; and when among these
the fun grew fast and furious, shoulder-strapped coats were
thrown off, and the valorous knights, not with swords, but with
fistiscuff, endeavored to demolish each other. Crowds of privates
were looking on, and supposing that, during the melee, a fit
time had come for them to pitch in. began to bear away sundry
portions of the whiskey, and were finally restrained only by a
strong guard, at the point of the bayonet. In efforts to gain-
their respective regiments on horseback, the appearance of va
rious officers was ludicrous in the extreme; and, but for its sad
ness, would have caused hearty bursts of laughter from any be
holder. One and another, when passing near our regimental
encampment, fell off his horse like a sack of meal. One vala-
rous rider, when opposite to where some of our horses were
hitched under a large tree, insisted upon the one he rode turn
ing thither, as to its own hitching-plaee. The animal knew

meade's campaign in Virginia. 339
better, but was constrained to obey by a vigorous application of
the spur. Under the insult offered to its superior knowledge,
the poor beast continued restive, while its rider, in maudlin,
drunken jargon, vainly attempted to persuade it he was in the
right, and all the while making fruitless efforts to get his right
leg over its back, in order to dismount. The animal, becoming
at length indignant, started off at a brisk pace towards its own
camp, whereupon the luckless rider fell to the ground, very
much like a large lump of putty.
Indian Drunk. — The whole thing, as related above, seemed
to have been arranged for a drunk, much like a similar perfor
mance among a tribe of Indians, as related by a certain Captain
Smith. Said Captain was taken captive by the savages, in
early frontier warfare, and by them adopted in room of a brave,
slain in battle. By some trading operations with the whites,
the little tribe, on a certain occasion, obtained fire water suffi
cient to get drunk, as they, with much significance, termed it.
The most deliberate preparations were accordingly made for the
operation. A day was set, and, the previous evening, the young
Indians tied in bundles all their tomahawks, scalping-knives,
and deadly weapons, then climbing up some young trees, they
drew after them the bundles, tieing them to the upper branches,
and, in descending, stripped off the green bark of the trees,
thus rendering them quite as difficult to ascend as a greased
pole. Five staid members of the tribe were selected to remain
sobei — not to taste the fire-water, and to act as a peace police.
As the Captain was a new-comer, it was graciously left to his
option whether to drunk or sober. All things ready, the
melee began by copious imbibings; and, while the drunk was
coming on, the scene, as related by the Captain, was exciting and

340 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
inexpressibly ludicrous. The unsuccessful efforts of the young
Indians to climb the slippery trees after their deadly weapons,
was worthy any modern struggle to ascend a greasy pole. Con
tinued libations, however, overcame one after another, till the
last drinker was helplessly stretched upon the ground, and
quietness prevailed till next morning, save a general grunting
much like a lot of fat hogs on a hot day.
Why Write Thus ? — My object in writing of this matter, is
to call the attention of the voting community to its enormity,
and urge them to unite in an effort to abate the shameless abomi
nation. This may be, in a measure, accomplished by pressing the
subject so earnestly and extensively upon the coming Congress,
as to have a law passed, prohibiting, under penalty of certain
death, the introduction of intoxicating drinks, on any pretext,
into the army, hospital stores and sutlers' evasions not excepted.
If good brandy, or old Bourbon, be at any time furnished by
the Government for our hospitals, the suffering inmates are sel
dom thereby either the wiser or the better. Better have the
whole thing stopped. The following item of comfort to our
sick and wounded soldiers and their friends, is now going the
rounds of all our daily papers, and hence it can be no slander
to copy the same: —
" A commission appointed for the purpose, have just discovered
that some gross frauds have been perpetrated upon the Medical
Department, in the supply of liquor, etc. An examination of
the single article of whiskey has shown, that the most deleteri
ous compound known, has been furnished for medical purposes,
in place of the fine, pure article contracted for. In some of
the.hospitals, the patients have been unable to use a drop, while

MEADE'S 'CAMPAIGN IN VIRGINIA. 341
those who have used it, were made worse than by their original
disease." Not unlikely, from the bloated eyes and livid lips of many an
official in our camps, that were the numerous barrels of what is
termed whiskey, which is guzzled here, examined by a scien
tific committee, something deleterious might also be found in
them. The preceding sketch, relative to drunkenness in camp, had a pretty
wide circulation in public journals, various copies of which soon found
their way into camp. What a shaking among the dry bones of drunken
officials! Shoulder-straps were indignant. Caucuses were held at
regimental, brigade, and division head-quarters, in order to have
summary action with the naughty, tell-tale Chaplain. Dismissed at
once from camp, he ought to be; but just how, was the caucus point.
Nothing but truth had been written, and not half of that.
The tell-tale writer was confronted, not officially, but by squads of offi-
cials, with oaths, attempted insults, threats of violence and dismissal from
the service. Being a time of war, he felt constrained to fight, by distinct
ly assuring these "indignants," that they, together with a large portion
of shoulder-straps in our army, were a disgrace to the American name
and the military service ; were a set of swearers, gamblers, and drunk
ards, keeping back, by their drunkenness and inefficiency, our armies
from victory ; that, were the speaker, by official influence, sent away
from the army, it would be to him rather a pleasing operation, as, in
that case, he would write a book, in which would be recorded all the
names of the drunken actors.
The Chaplain remained in camp, and unmolested ; thereafter to write
such camp sketches as suited his fancy and judgment.
As an encouragement, amid this battle with official drunkenness, the
privates gathered lovingly and approvingly around the Chaplain.
Among others, he was visited by a squad of brave, genial, yet way
ward, Catholic Irishmen, with the following salutation by their fore
man: "Sure, an' aint we glad yer talkin' to these drunken fellows in

342 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
that way. Yer Riverance knows well enough, that, when we can git
the crittur, we take a spree, — ye know we do; but sure an' aint we
jerked up and put under guard; yet them upstart rowdies can swear
and gamble and dhrink all night long, and we dar'n't say a word. But
yer Riverance isn't afeerd. Give them another touching up."
Unknown to himself, money was raised by the privates, and various
beautiful presents were sent, among which was a Bible, costing nearly
a hundred dollars. When these were publicly presented to the Chap
lain in camp, the officers most fierce in denouncing his exposures of
drunkenness, were present to congratulate him.
Most firmly is it believed that, but for bad whiskey, our armies
would long since have been not only in Richmond, but in every, other
stronghold in rebeldom. "Whiskey, whiskey, bane of life,
Thou source of discontent and strife:
Could I but half thy curses tell,
The wise would wish thee safe in hell."

Culpeper, Sept. 29th, 1863.
Satan not Omnipotent. — -The devil does sometimes over
reach himself. When the patient man of Uz, with a single
proviso, was handed over to his tender mercies, that arch old
rebel, in eager haste to effect the good man's ruin, quite over
did the business; shot aside of his mark, laid on the agony too
freely. Hence Satan suffered a defeat, while Job escaped and
became a hero. Although that arch old rebel has learned wis
dom from former failures, and thereby materially improved in
the practice of his wiles upon our race, yet great is the consola
tion to believe that he is neither omniscient nor omnipotent.

MEADE'S CAMPAIGN IN VIRGINIA. 343
but liable still to make mistakes. The experiences of camp
life, do, indeed, often force me with Paul to say, " I am not
ignorant of his devices." With anxious observation and multi
plied opportunities have I been watching these wiles of the old'
serpent for the ruin of our soldiers; and from these the belief
is cherished that the devil does make mistakes, and not unfre
quently brings injury to his own cause — his wrath being made
to praise God.
On to Culpeper. — As recently written, drunkenness, es
pecially among officers, was becoming shameless in our camps.
Shortly after that letter was written, our old camp, near War
renton, was broken up, and we moved forward to our present
position. Our hope was that the combinations of spiritual
wickedness in high places, which had there been forming,
might thus in some measure be broken up ; and with the new
camp and new combinations, some advantage might accrue to
the Lord's side. In this, for a time at least, there was a sad
disappointment. Satan Loose. — The day after our arrival, the devil, through
his agents, broke loose in a manner not previously witnessed,
bewildering and almost paralyzing any effort to withstand his
wiles. On that day I witnessed the saddest sight of my camp
experience, — a most unblushing exhibition of official depravity.
A government wagon drove into camp, bringing to our Brigade
Commissary two barrels of whiskey — for officers — the law not
allowing its sale openly to privates. "Where the carcass is,
the eagles (buzzards) are gathered together." By a strange,
intemperate instinct, the tidings of this arrival flew through--the
brigade with electric velocity. In as short a space of time as

344 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
this is written, from forty to fifty shoulder-strapped officials
were crowded round the hinder end of said wagon. Each one
with canteen, stopper out, in one hand, and a greenback in the
other — shouting, scrambling, and almost climbing over each
other's shoulders in order to obtain their vessel full of the bad
whiskey. No surprise need be excited at this crowding haste.
Two barrels might not supply present demand, and he who was
last might go away empty. Commissary clerk inside the wagon
could not await, with such a pressure outside, the slow process
of allowing the barrel to empty itself through a spigot hole.
The barrel was set on end, the upper one knocked in, and can
teen after canteen poured full, until all was gone in an incredi
bly short time. By various processes, through villanous sut
lers, &c, many privates also obtained large quantities of stimu
lants. The result may readily be guessed. At eventide it
was with some difficulty we could hold our accustomed reli
gious service. The uproar and the swearing, the yells and
screechings, the squabbles and the fights, as far around as they
could assail the ear, almost drowned our voice.
In the midst of this strange medley I endeavored to exhort
and encourage the soldiers of the cross in camp with the assur
ance, that the devil was certainly overdoing his business.
Through prayer and courage we would conquer yet. Mounting
my horse next day I rode to various regiments and brigades, in
order to make inquiry as to their experience and impressions.
"What of the Lord's work?" was the inquiry ofthe first chap
lain met. " The devil's broke loose, sure," was his sad response.
" Let us hold on, brother; the devil is overdoing this business."
On to the next, with, " How is it, brother?" "Why, Satan has
started all his engines of evil." " Yet let us not be cast down.:
the Lord of Hosts is upon our side." Thus quite a number

meade's campaign in Virginia. 345
were visited, similar questions asked, and uniform answers re
turned. Now, as to results, if signs be rightly interpreted, our
impressions were not misplaced, nor our hopes to be disap
pointed. Pay Day. — Shortly after this, came pay day, a time always
to be dreaded in camp for its accompanying disorder. Yet, in
the midst of our social meeting that evening, attention was
called to the unwonted, the remarkable stillness in our own and
all the neighboring camps. Not a dog was moving his tongue
not a boisterous sound heard. " What has produced such a
wonderful change, was the inquiry of one, and immediately re
sponded to by another, — " The Lord has done it. The devil
has, of late, been quite overdoing the business ; even his own
agents are becoming ashamed of their debasement and are hold
ing up."
Flag Presentation. — Two days afterward followed a flag
presentation in our regiment. Uninitiated readers are, perhaps,
not aware, when reading some glowing account, not unlikely
from a bribed reporter, of a sword or other presentation in the
army, that, as a synonym, there might usually be substituted
"grand official drunk" If all the expenses of the " drunk,"
on such occasions come off the presenter, woe betide the pocket
of the unlucky individual selected as the recipient of the pre
sent. Though ours was but the presentation of a flag to the
regiment, yet was the law of custom followed, and general pre
paration made for the accustomed demonstrations in drinking.
A double guard was placed around the head-quarters of the
regiment, where a barrel of something, and sundry boxes, were

346 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
located — this double guard, in order to keep the common fry
from intruding upon the privileges of their superiors.
The flag presentation, late in the afternoon, was a chaste,
appropriate, and imposing ceremony. This over, the very large
crowd of officials adjourned to the place for drinking; yet soon,
and after a single course, Corps, Division and Brigade Generals
with their respective staffs, together with Colonels, Majors and
Surgeons from other regiments, all mounted and rode away to
their respective camps, sober, all acting out both the gentleman
and the soldier; an imposing and gratifying sight. A squad,
however, of understrappers, upstart swaggerers in uniform and
shoulder-straps, who could not possibly shine while great folks
were present, must needs remain and carry out the accustomed
" drunk." During the afternoon, two brother Chaplains engaged to
come and help us resist the devil in our wonted religious ser
vice at eventide. About sun-down, the Lord also sent an old
friend and brother Chaplain from another corps. Thus rein
forced and strengthened, our meeting, larger- even tjian usual,
was opened in full view and hearing of head-quarters, where
the " drunk " of the young upstarts was beginning to grow fast
and furious. The Lord gave an earnest boldness to the assist
ing brethren, and, by the good hand of our God upon us, in
less than an hour the " drunk " was talked, and sung, and
prayed out of countenance and into silence. The devil does
sometimes overdo his work, and, for once, we have triumphed,
and feel thereby greatly strengthened.
Not only this, but, as known to me, a number of officers in
our own and other regiments, far, far gone in open drunken
ness, have become ashamed of their course — disgusted with
these debasing spectacles — have accordingly held up, and sol-

MEADE'S CAMPAIGN IN VIRGINIA. 347
emnly declare they will drink no more in camp. Satan makes
mistakes. Let no one; however, suppose we are boasting as those who
have put off their armor. Satan is not yet conquered. New and
more cunning strategy will, no doubt, be adopted by that arch
rebel leader. Other and more outlandish outbursts of wicked
ness in our camps may not unlikely be the consequence. Yet
confident we are, that a great moral crisis now exists in our
army. A holy war is going on. Sin does awfully abound; yet
are the soldiers of the cross, with an earnestness not hither
to manifested, combining and strengthening for the conflict.
Pray for us.
Chaplains' Meetings. — In our Sixth Corps, we have been
holding Chaplains' meetings each Monday for consultation,
combination of effort, and prayer. These meetings are opened
with a sermon, after the usual manner of Church Courts. From
twelve to twenty Chaplains are in attendance; representing
nearly every evangelical denomination of our country, and from
almost every Northern' State. Never has it been my privilege
to participate in ministerial meetings more full of heart-felt in
terest and abounding in cheering and soul-strengthening influ
ences. The greatest harmony, and oneness of spirit prevail.
All feel and speak of the terrible pressure of wickedness; yet,
of late, that God's people are stirred up and strengthening
their hands. All seem to believe we are approaching a great
crisis in the army. God and Satan are contending for the
mastery; yet no despondency, but hopefulness for the ultimate
triumph of righteousness.
Every day's experience and observation confirm me in the
belief, that no instrumentality, save that of the regular Chap-

348 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
lain, is suited to, or able to meet these growing wants and suc
cessfully grapple with this abounding wickedness. All know
that without the regular pastorate, the Church would not and
could not prosper or extend itself. Even more important would
it seem that regularly authorized laborers should be in every
regiment. Chaplains, it is true, have and may, occasionally,
prove incompetent or faithless, as also happens in the pasto
rate. At our last meeting it was ascertained, upon inquiry, that in
our Sixth Corps, there are thirty-seven regiments, and twenty-
six Chaplains. Whether this be a fair average throughout all
our armies, data sufficient are not at hand to decide. The de
sign of this inquiry was to adopt measures in order to have
regular preaching in all the regiments destitute of Chaplains,
until, if possible, the proper authorities be induced to obtain
for each lacking regiment, fit persons as spiritual guides. Two
brethren were accordingly designated for each vacant regiment
on the following Sabbath. Nor are we without hope that each
regiment in our corps may, ere long, be blessed with an earnest
and faithful Chaplain.
While thus magnifying our Chaplain's office, let no one sup
pose we thereby intend to undervalue, or would in the least
lessen the importance and usefulness of any one, or all other
instrumentalities operating for good on the physical and moral
condition of our army. On the contrary, not a day passes
without my having occasion to bless God for the existence of
the United States Christian Commission; — thanking also an
All-wise Providence, that He has raised up one as its President,
with largeness of heart, means, skill, energy and perseverance,
sufficient to conduct with such marked success, so vast and
growing a means for good as the United States Christian Com-

meade's campaign in Virginia. 349
mission. Without its beneficent and timely aid, our Chaplain
service would by no means be so successful. Her delegates
come to us fresh from our homes and Christian friends, and, by
their presence and aid-, cheer us in our toil. The reading mat
ter, so liberally furnished, puts weapons into our hands with
which to combat the enemy. And her numerous stores of com
forts and delicacies, always at our command when within reach,
assist us much in comforting and cheering both the souls and
bodies of the feeble, the sick and the wounded.

Warrenton again, Oct. 27.
The Army of the Potomac at a New Game. — This
grand Army of the Potomac seems to have entered upon a new
system of tactics, which does not appear to have been laid down
in the books on military evolutions. This new science, play,
or pastime may be designated " Chasing and being chased —
i~unning after and being run after." Our school-boy days and
pastimes seem to be living over again. A play we had, though
its name be scarcely now remembered, — base, perhaps, — and
carried on something after this fashion : Those to be engaged
were separated, by alternate choice, into two bands. When
divided, they took positions at the distance of a good healthy
run apart. One company then sent forward, as a scout, its
most expert runner, who walked leisurely up near to the ope
rating base of the opposing party. On a sudden, some of their
best footmen bounded forward in order to capture the scout.
His business was now to regain his own base without being
overtaken. Should one of the pursuers be able, in the race, to
30

350 camp, march and battle-field.
touch him with the hand, he was their prisoner. If, however,
he reached his own squad untouched, his companions at once
bounded forward to capture his pursuers. It was now their
turn to be chased ; for, if overtaken before reaching their own
goal, they were prisoners. Thus went on the alternate chase
and being chased, the fun becoming more mixed and excited
until all of one side were captured, when, of course, the game
ended. Boyhood days have come back. The old game of base
played over again by grown men and great generals ! Nor has
this manhood's chase and chasing, any less than boyhood's,
been wanting in its excitements and pleasures, — bating the
enormous fatigue of three days and nights being chased, and
about the same time chasing.
About the 9th of October, General Lee began to make omi
nous demonstrations about the fordings and crossing of the
Rapidan ; when, for reasons, the east side of the Rappahan
nock was decided to be the proper position for the Army of the
Potomac. So all of Saturday night and all of Sabbath streams
of wagons, ambulances, artillery, cavalry, and infantry poured
across the pontoon bridges and through the fordings, till, by
sun-down of Sabbath, not even a straggler remained on the west
side of said little Rappahannock River.
On Monday morning, the conckision seemed to be that, in
the progress of their game of base, we had now been chased far
enough, and must, in consequence, chase awhile. So all the
forenoon of Monday, unencumbered by wagons or baggage,
the grand army recrossed the river in half a dozen columns,
and, early in the afternoon, was in full battle array on the west
side of the river. And such a magnificent array for actual
battle has not heretofore been seen. This was owing to the
peculiarity of the ground, allowing the whole to be taken in at

meade's CAMPAIGN IN VIRGINIA. 351
a glance. This section of country much resembles a western
prairie, save some additions of timber. So open is it that when
the army was formed into three or four lines of battle, one
some fifty rods in rear of the other, and stretching for miles to
the right and left, that, in this same grand order of battle, a
forward movement was ordered ; it was awfully grand, terri
bly sublime. The whole face of the country bristling with
bayonets, and in motion with men and horses; and, notwith
standing the difficulty of the movement, the utmost order and
precision observed in the advance. With this majesty of move
ment, an advance was made all the afternoon back towards Cul
pepper. At sun-down we were halted in the same order. When
shrouded by darkness, efforts were made for sleeping upon the
cold, damp ground ; but the order soon passed along, " Fall in."
" Where and what now ? each asked of his fellow. It was
now our turn to run, and be chased. Back we started ; and
during all that dark, dreary night the same living streams
poured back to the east side of the Rappahannock, and by the
following dawn all were again across, save our own and another
regiment, whieh were left to act as rear guard to hurry forward
stragglers, defend the engineers as they lifted the pontoon
bridges, and, when the last mafOlas across, burn the railroad
bridge across the river, — all f£ Tvhich service was accomplished
in approved military style and in an hour's time. Yet was not
our race ended. After destroying all we could not take along,
— burning every thing that would take fire — away we started
towards Washington. On, on we tramped all of Tuesday with
out halting. On and on we trudged all of Tuesday night, till,
near the break of day, we were halted long enough for a brief
rest and to make coffee. Then up and on ; on past that almost
fabulous place, Manassas Junction, on over the old battle-fields,

352 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
across Bull Run, up through Centreville, and on to Chantilly,
where General Kearney was killed last year. We had now run
far enough — made a long run, and did it well; here halted, and
soon had strong earthen breast-works thrown up between us and
the rebels.
So soon, however, as a little rested, it was fairly the rebels'
turn to run, and we to chase. Out from behind our breast
works we sallied; and, after making good time in pursuit for
two days and nights till arriving at this locality, we have been
quietly taking breath for a short time. Our present camp is
over a mile west from Warrenton, on the precise ground we
occupied when arriving here the latter part of July. We await
another race; yet whose turn next to be chased deponent saith
not. Old Battle-Fields. — Strange feelings take possession of
the thoughtful mind when approaching to and traversing the
place where some great battle has been fought. For such
visits and mental exercises our frequent condition during the
past season has been strongly propitious. Nearly three years
have we been on our attempted journey from Washington to
Richmond, — a distance whierf by railroad we might travel in
almost as many hours. Had Bunyan's sojourner made no more
rapid progress towards his desired city, he might, perchance,
have been on his pilgrimage till now. Had that marvellous
dreamer in Bedford jail accompanied us in our ever-varying
efforts to reach the Confederate capital, allegory and similitude
might have been laid aside, and the world furnished with a huge
volume of fact stranger than fiction. During our numerous
and varied forwards and backwards — advances and retreats —
rights and lefts — ups and downs — stops and starts — hithers and

meade's campaign in Virginia. 353
thithers — an opportunity has been afforded leisurely to visit
and revisit nearly every important battle-field of the Potomac
army. Already, in this war of magnificent dimensions, a dozen fields
of slaughter have been left to history, greater, as to the number
of combatants, than Waterloo, and with even more killed or
mutilated, on each of them, than upon that far-famed field of
blood. So common, so fresh, so strangely familiar have become
these vast localities of slaughter, that, for the present, much of
that wonted reverence, and even profit, is wanting while passing
over them. Fifty years hence, our grandchildren will come on
pilgrimage and tread, with sacred awe and holy reverence, these
places where every sod is a soldier's sepulchre. Such feelings
are almost unknown to him whose feet, as he traverses, are yet
defiled with gore, whose nostrils are filled with stench, whose
eyes are averted from ghastly corses, and in whose ears the tu
mult of battle yet rings.
We are now traversing and camping upon by far the largest
battle area ever measured in the world's history of carnage.
The eastern part of Virginia, with portions of Maryland and
Pennsylvania, comprising ten thousand miles, widening to a
hundred miles on every side, — from the northwest boundary of
the Shenandoah Valley to the James River, from the Chesa
peake to the Rapidan,— has been converted, during the past
three years, into a grand amphitheatre for a tournament at
arms, — a magnificent duel, — and, as a result, has become a
great charnel-house, a vast Golgotha, a wide-spread Aceldama,
a literal field of blood. Fields, forests, hills, valleys, meadows,
orchards, gardens, over all this wide-extended region, with
scarcely an exempted spot, have already been occupied as a
camping ground by either friend or foe.

354 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
During our late strategic movements, — our hide-and-go-seek,
— our retreating and pursuing, — the general course led us
twice over the battle-scenes of Bull Run. Not as many evi
dences of the fierce and bloody struggles which there took
place remain as might be supposed. A luxuriant growth of
grass and weeds, without flock or herd to graze thereon, covered
all that great battle region when traversed by us. The debris
from the various clashings together of fiercely-contending hosts,
scattered over a wide region in the vicinity of Bull Run, could
not generally be discovered until struck against by your foot or
that of your horse. Even the little mounds, called graves, scat
tered, without order, over hill and dale, were generally hid from
sight by the summer vegetation, now becoming sear by autumn
frosts. So shallow had the holes and trenches been dug for the
reception of the slain, that, when our artillery wheels cut across
the soft ground, and the ponderous trains of army wagons sunk
into it in their passage, many of the mouldering bodies were
reached ; when fragments of broken bones and rotten flesh were
dragged up after the wheels. Here and there, also, lay, scat
tered about, the various bones of the human body ; not as seen
by the prophet at the grave's mouth, for they seemed never to
have been honored with a burial. These were picked up by our
soldiers, while on the march, and curiously examined, — many,
in their ignorance of anatomy, wondering to what part of the
body such a one belonged. The whole scene was thus, long
since, graphically described, by one of the finest word-painters
that eyer wielded a pen : —
"The knot grass fettered there the hand
Which once could burst an iron band.
Beneath the broad and ample bone
That buckled heart to fear unknown,

MEADE'S CAMPAIGN IN VIRGINIA. 355
A feeble and a timorous guest,
The field-hare, framed her lowly nest ;
There the slow blind worm left his slime
On the fleet limbs that mocked at time ;
And there, too, lay the leader's skull,
Still, wreathed with chaplet, flushed and full, —
For heathbell, with her purple bloom,
Supplied the bonnet and the plume."

Yes,—

" They have fought their last battles, they sleep their last sleep,
No sound shall awake them to glory again."

Brandy Station, Va., Nov. 17th, 1863.
A new Army Movement. — Early on Saturday morning
Nov. 7th, our quiet camp near Warrenton was broken up, and
we again in motion. A grand exciting thing it is for a great
army, on sudden orders to break up its cantonments and get
into motion. Several hundred small cities, as each regiment
constitutes within itself a distinct city, broken up, dissolved,
disappearing within the space of a few minutes. Houses, tents,
shelters of all imaginable shapes and sizes — many even without
any apparent shape, size or convenience, unroofed. The can
vass covering of the privates' little shelter folded and strapped
upon the top of the already crowded knapsack ; those of the line
officers lashed upon half-worn out rickety mules, whose droop
ing ears seem to constitute half of their lean, bodies. The
tents of staff officers go into wagons. The camp accommoda-

356 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
tions of a few days, weeks or months are thrown away. All
seems inextricable disorder, pell-mell and confusion. The bugle
sounds the march, the commanding officer shouts "fall in,"
when as if by some magician's wand, order comes from out
this bustling chaos. The regiment is at once in ranks of
military order, four deep, and trudging away, away; each
soldier looking, for all the world, like some old picture of
Bunyan's Pilgrim, with a huge pack upon his back.
Deserted Camp. — Imagination can hardly picture a scene
of more entire desertion and desolation than a camp of a few
weeks' occupancy, even an hour after it has been abandoned.
The ruins of Tyre, Babylon or Ninevah, can scarcely sur
pass it in completeness of desolation, and in the loneliness of
feeling produced upon the solitary beholder. Save a few fires
here and there still smouldering, it might readily be imagined
that ages had passed since human footsteps trod there, though
so lately the scene of busy crowded life and activities.
Another Bloody Battle. — By the middle ofthe afternoon,
on the same day, the camp was broken near Warrenton : having
marched nearly fifteen miles, we arrived in the immediate
vicinity of Rappahannock Station, the point where the railroad
from Washington to Richmond crosses the little river of the
same name. The ground in the vicinity was all familiar, as we
had encamped here for ten days during the earlier part of the
fall. Our 6th Corps, after its long march, was at once and
somewhat unexpectedly in a fierce struggle with the enemy. It
was brief, bloody, decisive, and for our arms, one of the most
brilliant achievements of this fiercely contested war. The rebels
were in possession of the earthworks close along the bank of the

meade's campaign in Virginia. 357
river, which we had occupied a month previously. These they
had in the mean time greatly strengthened, so.that each of the
two thousand rebels by which they were now occupied, was
protected even more than breast high by redoubts and breast
works. At the assaulting foe they could take sure and deadly
aim, while naught but the 'tops of their own heads were
exposed. How these formidable works were stormed with so
little bloodshed seems yet a mystery. The rebels must have
been taken in some measure by surprise. They no doubt felt
secure, never even dreaming that an assault would be attempted
on their formidable position over the open and rising ground
directly in front. According to the ordinary fierceness of the
'present warfare, from their strength and position, they ought
to have killed a thousand of our troops, and wounded three or
four thousand more. Only about one hundred were killed, and
three hundred wounded.
Yet how strange this language, "only one hundred killed!"
Cruel war does greatly transform both our language and our
sensibilities. " Only one hundred killed !" Only one hundred
noble young men in the flower of manhood swept together into
eternity. Only a hundred homes and home circles thus
quickly thrown into inconsolable sadness and irreparable grief.
Were one hundred young men belonging to our fire companies
crushed to death in a moment, under the ruins of some burning
building, what a thrill of horror would pervade the whole city;
yea, the entire community ! Each daily paper throughout the
country, for a number of issues thereafter, would be filled with
sickening details of the awful, the appalling calamity. When
however, " only one hundred killed in the battle of the Rappa
hannock," is read by millions next morning, no other emotion is

358 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
excited thereby save perhaps that of joy — a kind of pleasing
breakfast repast.
Scenes on the Battle Field. — Early next morning (Sab
bath) I passed entirely over the scene of last evening's bloody
struggle. All quiet now. The wounded had been sent away
during the night, and the sixteen hundred prisoners conveyed
far to the rear. The dead were being collected into groups in
order to be covered up in trenches then digging by their living
comrades. All were buried just as they fell — uncoffined and
shrouded in their bloody garments — perhaps the fittest burial
for the brave soldier. At one place within the enemy's works
were collected and laid side by side for interment, thirty
from the 6th Maine Regiment. All noble-looking young men;
still, calm, bloody, dead. They came from that far off north
east, to sleep their last long sleep on the quiet banks of this
lonely river. Nearly every one of these had received the death
wound in the face, the neck, or upper portion of the breast, as
they marched directly up to the muzzles of the rebel rifles.
New Marches and Duties. — On the day after the battle,
we were marched some miles down the river to Kelly's Ford,
in the vicinity of which we did picket duty for several days
and nights. Returning from thence, the battle ground of
Saturday was again passed over, the river re-crossed and out to
this place, Brandy Station; a name, no doubt, full of euphony
to our too many lovers of strong drink. From whence the
name, has not yet been ascertained, whether from some F. F. V.,
who bore the rather dubious surname of Brandy, or from the
large quantities of said beverage drank at this locality while
v the railroad was being constructed. Said locality is six miles

MEADE'S campaign IN VIRGINIA. 359
east from Culpeper. Here is the once beautiful domain of
John Minor Botts, a well known Virginia Statesman, who has
been trying to retain his loyalty during all this protracted
struggle. So often during the past three years has this section
heen made a camping ground both by Union and Confederate,
together with a number of skirmishes and cavalry deeds, that
the bare ground is about all which now remains. Our boys
have to trudge a long distance, ere they can find old rails, or
any kind of wood, with which to light a camp fire.
Grave of an Executed Rebel. — Close beside our regimen
tal encampment is a clump of young pines, in which is a large
newly made rebel grave, at the head of which is a pine board,
bearing in pencil the following inscription: "Jordan Harris,
Co. F., 47th N. C. Troops. Executed for desertion about noon,
November the 1st, 1863, aged 49 years." Poor soldier, alone
and quietly he sleeps undisturbed more by dreams of escape
from rebel tyranny, or yearnings for home and family.
Little Things. — Little things make up life — occasion its
ills, fretfulness, uneasiness, estrangements, — make up its com
forts, joys and friendships. Big things we can manage ; seize, and
make properly behave themselves. Little ones elude the search
and the grasp, yet still remain to torture. The Egyptians could
defend their land from inroads of humanity, yet were the
locusts, the flies and the lice, too much for their weapons of
war. Little things have been annoying the writer. His man
sion has been invaded and his goods destroyed by a numerous
and cunning enemy; nor has he been able, with the willing as
sistance of well armed and trained friends, fully to expel the
plundering marauders.

360 camp, march and battle-field.
Field Mice. — Good farming no doubt tends much to lessen
the number of these pests to husbandry. The rugged plough
share of Burns was a stern, destructive reality to little mousie,
with her snugly built nest and well-laid schemes, of which the
poet sung in such pathetic and exquisite strains. Unfortunately
for my interests, no ploughshare these three years has disturbed
the surface of these old Virginia fields. Mousie, thus undis
turbed so long in her domestic arrangements, has multiplied
to an astonishing degree. Grandames rejoicing in their de
scendants, perhaps, to the tentljf generation. Were they all
turned into golden mice, such as those sent back with the ark
by the Philistines, Secretary Chase, might at once resume speeie
payments, nor issue greenbacks more.
Having no chest, vault, cupboard, shelf or table drawer, in or
on which to store our simple stock of eatables, they are necessarily
laid upon the ground, under the little canvass. The first night
of our encampment on this old field, now covered with withered
grass and running briers, a whole tribe of these insignificant
plunderers burrowed along the surface of the ground into my
tent. While sleeping, they ate into my little sugar sack and
devoured its contents; found their way into the haversack and
rummaged it ; gnawed through the leather of the saddle-bags
and stole the hard tack ; went through the canvass of Jesse's
oat-sack and made a nest therein; carried off my ration of
meat, only leaving untouched a little salt, pepper and ground
coffee, as not to their liking. So emboldened did they become
at the success of their invasion, that when bestirring myself
next morning, various squads of them seemed unwilling to
leave the tent. Such impudence was not to be borne. A
small stick was seized and vigorous use of said instrument com
menced. But one half-grown chap was however put hors du

MEADE'S CAMPAIGN IN VIRGINIA. 361
combat by the operation, all the others magically disappearing
into their various burrowing places. Remaining quiet for a
few moments, half a dozen little whiskered noses, each backed
by a pair of small, black, round, mischievous-looking eyes,
made their appearance from the entrance of as many holes be
neath the canvass. Comical as well as quizzical, was their ap
pearance. Each one seemed to ask, " Who are you?" "What
great giant is this, who is trying, in such a summary manner,
to disturb our independence and take away our liberties?"
The rogues must have had previous practice in the dodge. A
sudden and violent plunge was made at the nearest quiz, the
stroke fell where had been the two eyes, but mousie wasn't
there. Next night, before sleeping time, all the replaced eatables
were suspended by pieces of rope from the cross-pole of the
little tent, causing the crowded enclosure to look like a minia
ture smoke-house or ogre's den. After the candle was blown
out, myself rolled in a blanket on the ground floor, the former
invasion with large apparent additions entered. No feast this
time could be found or reached, whereat an evident and bois
terous indignation meeting was held. After its adjournment
various companies of the little indignants scrambled on top of
me and ran across my whole length. Then they would run
across and angle over me, and when wearied with this inte
resting operation, would collect in squads, still on top of me, in
order to plan some new mischief. Little things make up life in
camp as well as at home.
Rabbits. — The Lord would not cast out all the inhabitants
of Canaan at once; seeing the tribes at their invasion were not
numerous enough to occupy all the land. A reason given

362 camp, march and battle-field.
for said policy was, lest wild beasts multiply and desolate the
land. The hunters of Virginia seem to have long since de
stroyed the various races of wild beasts, which in the Indian's
day were so numerous — buffaloes, deer, bears, panthers, cata
mounts; so that during these years of desolation through the
Old Dominion, there are none of those animals left, so as to
multiply and once more possess the land. Rabbits not being
so easily exterminated, are an exception. Although they mul
tiply exceedingly when unmolested, yet in years past, the
slaves were wont successfully to adopt various and cunning
measures for their capture and appropriation. Now, however,
master and slave have alike disappeared from many a section.
As a consequence, these curious, long-eared, hopping, stupid-
looking creatures have for two years had almost uninterrupted
occupancy of these old fields and open woods. In the mean
time there has been evidently a most prolific increase. At
every halting place or new camp, our soldiers, in their various
rummagings for wood, water, &c, start out a rabbit from almost
every little hiding nook. No sooner does Bun become alarmed,
and bound out from his hiding place, than he becomes a doomed
rabbit; escape next to impossible; presently he is to boil and
blubber in the camp-kettle of some rapacious soldier. Away
however, he scuds, followed by this and that bellowing pursuer,
yet ere aware, squads of shouting men meet him in front, away
he shoots to the right, where suddenly volleys of clubs and
stones, commingled with yells and screams assail him. "Right
about," says Bun, and darts to the left, yet only to meet accu
mulated volleys of yells and missiles. Panting, bewildered,
paralyzed, he generally yields with a little further effort. Poor
B unnie !
Umbellate grouse, (pheasants,) quails and fox, squirrels have

meade's campaign IN VIRGINIA. 363
also greatly increased in numbers through this region of late,
for want of killers. Pheasants and quails, however, having
wings, and the squirrels claws, the. first, when approached by
the soldier, flies away, the latter hops up the nearest tree, and
thus generally escapes, as our soldiers are forbidden under
heavy penalties from using their guns against any game, save
rebels.

Brandy Station, Dec. 16, 1863.
Meade^s and Lee's Machines Again in Motion.—
It cannot now be news to you that uncles Meade and Lee
have again had their big machines, called the Army of the
Potomac and Army of Northern Virginia, in motion. Rather
a lively time had we in said exercise. The machine of which
your correspondent forms- — he hardly knows what part — spoke,
screw, wedge or pin, — crossed that almost fabulous stream
called the Rapidan in good style. It then and there ran
counter to, collided against that other rival machine, and, after
some pounding, pushing and jarring, pressed it back into a
region which, on Lloyd's map of Virginia, is most fitly denomi
nated " The Wilderness," — a region almost uninhabited, a place
of bushes and briers, bogs and fens.
A Cold Bath. — The most note-worthy incident of a per
sonal character connected with our raid into said Wilderness
was an informal, unexpected, and most certainly, at the time,
an uncoveted cold bath. During all the afternoon of Sabbath,
November 29th, we were skirmishing with the enemy along
and in the region of the plank road leading from Fredericks-

364 camp, march and battle-field.
burg to Orange Court-House;. — at one time cannonading, at
another musketry — the rebels all the while falling back and
we advancing. At dusk, and close upon the enemy, as we
were pushing through a thick, swampy wood — the men scramr
bling on logs and other ways as best they could over a jungle
like brook — Jesse, having been ridden all day without water,
determined upon a drink out of said sluggish rebel stream.
No sooner, however, were her fore-feet in the water, than she
began to sink, and, with consequent floundering, was presently
over her back in the treacherous pool. In vain she struggled
to extricate herself with her rider, who was compelled to dis
mount, neck deep; when, with vigorous strugglings and
various efforts, assisted also by numerous friends, something
like solid land was reached on the opposite side. Night was
on us — clear, windy, fireless, and piercingly cold. Our regiment
was soon halted in line of battle, fronting the enemy, and thus
to remain during the night. My blankets, dripping wet, were
wrapped around me, having every particle of clothing equally
saturated from the icy stream. In this condition, tumbling
upon the frozen ground, I, ere long, found myself in a grand
hydropathic, wet-sheet, steam-operation, and soon thereafter in
a sound sleep. On waking from which, the outer plies of the
blankets were frozen into a hard crust, from which it was diffi
cult to become extricated. Happy to say that nothing in the
shape of what is usually termed a cold was the result.
Preparation for Battle — Solemn Hours. — All of
next day we were stationary in line of battle, and in close
proximity to the enemy — our regiment in front or picket line.
With the long experience of our men in battles and assaults,
the most inattentive, as the day wore on, could discern that

meade's campaign in Virginia. 365
the position of the enemy was a very formidable one, and that
immense slaughter must be the certain consequence of an
assault, even though a successful one. Specific orders and
directions were given that an assault would be made late in the
afternoon, and simultaneously along the whole line, of perhaps
five miles in extent. So near were we to the rebel lines that
their soldiers would occasionally shout to us, as the day wore
away, " Yanks, why don't you come on ? We're ready."
And, as our boys were gathering some rails against the chilling
cold, " Yanks, don't take those rails — they're not yours."
The hour passed on, nor came the arranged signal for the awful
scenes of assault and slaughter to commence. Night drew on,
and our regiment was ordered to the rear in order to rest.
Never have I spent a more solemn day. Our brave soldiers
are not now wont to rush, like the unthinking horse, into battle.
Our men here saw the danger, yet were ready to face it. Ere
the hour set for the battle came, all my pockets and even
haversack, were filled with sacred mementoes in case of death
in the conflict/ — pocket-books, money, watches, lockets, rings,
photographs. Each one as I passed by, or as he came and
handed me his treasure or his keepsake, would say, in sub
stance, " Chaplain, this is going to be a bloody business. In it
the half of our regiment must no doubt fall, as we are in the
front line. Of these, I may be one. God, we are sure, will
spare you. Take this, and should I fall, give or send it to
such and such a loved one, telling them I fell with my face to
the enemy, and this is to them— my last earthly memento and
pledge of love !"' During many of these, perhaps, final inter
views, my emotions were unutterable, being only able to grasp
the brave, generous hand, and turn away.
31*

366 CAMP, MARCH and battle-field.
Military Criticism. — All know the result. The medi
tated assault was not made. This, beyond cavil, was merciful
military prudence. Whatever of criticism may be made as to
the propriety of placing the Army of the Potomac in such a
position, no intelligent and reflecting mind, we think, can but
rejoice that the contemplated assault was not made at the time
and place. Victorious or repulsed, twenty thousand, at least,
of our brave soldiers would have been killed or wounded.
Of the fifteen or twenty thousand wounded, the one-half, at
least, must have perished in that lone wilderness, and with the
severe cold, ere proper aid could have come or their removal
have been effected. Even a victory under the conditions must,
in a great measure, have been barren of results, as the army
would have been compelled very soon to fall back on its base
for supplies. The grand Army of the Potomac is happily
safe, in a good position, and never in better spirits or condition.
On Tuesday evening, December 1st, at the dusk of evening,
aud still in front of the enemy, we held a religious service
around a large brush fire which our boys had kindled in an
open wood. An immense crowd assembled from our own and
other regiments. Loudly, cheerily, thankfully, did we sing
God's praise, and fervent acknowledgments were rendered in
prayer for merciful deliverance from mutilation and death thus
far bestowed. No sooner was our meeting ended, than on
quick-step — almost a run — our retreat commenced, and at the
dawn of the following morning, we recrossed the Rapidan,
twenty miles from the place of evening prayer meeting. Soon
we were again encamped on the very spot, near to Brandy
Station, which we had abandoned, as hoped for ever, just a
week previously.

meade's campaign IN VIRGINIA. 367
Thanksgiving Offering. — For the day appointed as a
National Thanksgiving, we had, in our regiment, varied and
definite arrangements for sermon, speeches, addresses, anthems
sung, and a collection taken for benevolent purposes. The
military powers had, however, ordered our exercises on that
day differently. From early dawn until far in the night, we
were on a long, long, wearying march across the Rapidan. Nor
let it be thought out of place, in this connection, to refer the
Christian community as well as the ungodly, to a cause which
may have conduced more than any other to our again occupy
ing this old camp, after an unsuccessful campaign.
The late Thanksgiving Day was devoted by the executive of
the nation, and accepted by the people, as holy^to the Lord.
The hearts of thousands among our brave soldiers turned
fondly, lovingly homeward, in anticipation of that day's exer
cises. Yet was the advance of our army ordered to commence
at the dawn of that day, nor was a moment allowed the soldier
for his thanksgiving, save under the fatigues of a long and
wearying march. Also, when across the Rapidan, and
immediately in front of the enemy, an advance, at early morn
on the Sabbath, was ordered to a supposed bloody battle ; and,
until the shades of night, large portions of the army were
hurried on in search of the enemy. When Sabbath night
came we were halted, and never got farther against the enemy.
For two days we stood, and looked stealthily at the enemy, then
turned and fled when no man seemed to pursue. Was not the
Lord manifestly angry with us ?
Although marched out of our Thanksgiving exercises, yet
did an unwillingness appear that the proposed offering should
altogether be prevented. In accordance with this feeling, and
on our return here, a week afterwards, it was proposed then to

368 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
make our Regimental Thank-offering. The objects proposed
for assistance were the Orphan Asylums in and around Pitts
burg, as their number of inmates were being increased by the
war ; — and a number of widows made such by husbands who
were members of our regiment, or sons of those who were
already widows, and on whom they leaned for earthly support.
When the offering came together, it amounted to four hundred
and thirty dollars.

Brandt Station, December 30th, 1863.
Old Father Time was, on Christmas, invited to stop in
camp and take soldiers' fare for dinner. And what think you?
The old curmudgeon snuffed at it. " Other business on hand,"
said the surly indefatigable; " and, moreover, I can better my
self." So, with a wag of his old knowing head, a wave of his
iron-gray lock, and a flourish of his great scythe, the churl was
away. Think you that this Chaplain became, at the evident slight
of the " inveterate old mower," so grufiy, indignant, and out of
sorts, that he couldn't dine alone, or with some friend having
more leisure and geniality ? Not he — rather satisfied the invi
tation was not accepted, as a pleasurable assurance was cher
ished that, for once, our old friend would find himself disap
pointed — he might travel till eventide and not find better fare
than fell to the lot of the writer on said occasion. A little late
it may seem, to wish your readers, with all the fraternity of
editors, a merry Christmas. A merry one, at least, had the
writer, on the afternoon of that day, and, all unsolicited, he

meade's campaign IN VIRGINIA. 369
did, through Adams' Express, receive from kind friends boxes
and packages containing all sorts of good things — delicacies,
luxuries and substantiate — one of these from a Christian family-
hot a member of which has he seen in the flesh. To say that
he was thankful and rejoiced, would be but a tame account of
the proceedings. The feast was, moreover, held in his own
house, a cozy little structure eight by six feet, the third of its
kind erected this Fall — one near Warrenton, another at Rap
pahannock Station, and the present structure, which the boys
lately finished in the best style of camp architecture.
Things Hopeful in Camp. — -Energetic, extensive, and
successful efforts are at present being made in various brigades
and regiments to provide suitable places in which to hold reli
gious services. This most praiseworthy object is largely for
warded by the efforts and liberality of the United States Chris
tian Commission, by erecting large tents, in several prominent
localities in the army, as depots for their reading matter, sup
plies for hospitals, and, also, in which to hold religious meetings.
In addition to this, a goodly number of large awnings are
being furnished, in order to cover rude structures erected by
the soldiers to serve as churches during the Winter.
A Vis.it from Friends. — A short time since, we had a
visit from the President of the Christian Commission, our
friend and brother, G. H. Stuart, Joseph Patterson, Treasurer,
together with three other Stuarts, and three other Pattersons.
At 1 p. m., in the camp of our regiment, and according to pre
vious arrangement, all these brethren were present. The day
was beautiful, and a large crowd from our own and other regi
ments, in the open air, and with all the' surroundings of camp

H i

370 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
life, were successively addressed by four or five members of the
delegation, Bro. Stuart closing, in eloquent words of counsel,
direction and encouragement. It was a day to be remembered.-
To say that all were' cheered, delighted and refreshed, would
be faintly telling it. God bless these and all other Christian
friends who find their way to camp, thus to cheer our toil,
delight our hearts, and help to advance the Lord's work in this
confessedly difficult, yet all-important field. It too often hap
pens that when professing Christians find their way to camp,
either from mock modesty or a shame of the cross, their light
is hidden under a bushel while there.
The Old Year. — Now, farewell to 1863. Hasten on,
Father Time, and complete your cycles. You shan't be invited
to dine on New Year's, although good cheer is anticipated. Be
off speedily and hasten this cruel war to a close. Bring us
speedily a period of blissful, hoped-for peace.

Boliver Heights, near Harper's Ferry, ^
Monday, January 4th, 1864. /
" Man Proposeth, but God Disposeth. — I do hereby, in
the most formal manner, beg old Father Time's pardon ; and,
should forgiveness be granted, do faithfully promise never again
to flout at or boast against said sturdy veteran. In my last,
the old grudge was told, in a civil manner, to go about his busi
ness, — to bustle on with his moving ; that to dinner on New
Year's day he should not be invited, although bountiful provi
sions were already made in camp for passing out the old and
ushering in the new period.

MEADE'S CAMPAIGN IN VIRGINIA. 371
Time has had his revenge. All the houses in our new city,
near Brandy Station, had been completed. Not in all our
campaigning had we been so easy; with, moreover, so fair, even
distinct prospect of wintering in these comfortable quarters.
During the last day of the year, the rain came down as it only
can in Virginia. Night stole on, and still it rained heavily;
literally flooding the whole flat section of country.
At 11 P. M., — an hour of the old year remaining, — this
writer was sitting, as snugly as man well could, before a warm
fire, in his little house, with rain still pattering on the canvass
roof, and, without, dark as Egypt. Yet what cared he ? A
few notes were being indited to the past year, ere it fled away
forever, when the well-known voice of our assistant adjutant
general was heard without, and in front of the colonel's tent,
shouting, "Pack up! we must leave in an hour!" Was it a
dream ? What nonsense ! — what a strange time for my young
friend to be engaging in military jests ! " Pack up at once !"
was repeated in earnest, emphatic tones, not to be misunder
stood. In an hour, and just as the new year came in, our cherished
city was abandoned, — my own dear little home deserted, and
much of my preparations for a " happy new year " left behind,
no way possible offering to take them along. Still raining, and
darkness to be felt. Our regiment, with the brigade, was in
line, and groping its way to Brandy Station, through mud and
water, which had already been worked knee-deep.
Ere the dawn the troops were packed into cars, or standing
upon open ones, and away towards Washington. For three
days and two nights were we confined on that dreary old bag
gage-car, without fire or semblance of comfort, ere all were

372 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
lodged at this dreary, forsaken, yet romantic locality, called
Harper's Ferry.
On the first day of the year, as all with us will long remem
ber, the wind commenced blowing heavily from the North,
and freezing like Greenland. Many of our poor fellows had
their feet frozen, their shoes having been previously filled with
mud and water, with no possible opportunity for warming, dry
ing, or change. Of all our past three years' campaigning, the
four preceding days have been the most trying and terrible.
Why we were thus hurried here, — why we were selected, and
not others, — for what we came, and how long we are to remain
here, have not been submitted to this chaplain. My own de
cided opinion is that the devil, using, perhaps, some fancied
rebel raid as an instrumentality, had a large hand in this sud
den and unexpected change of base : this, no doubt, in order, if
possible, to break up or thwart our religious influences, already
enjoyed, as well as those more largely expected, and for which
preparations were in rapid progress. Never before had we
been so hopeful. Never were evidences for good in camp so
numerous. Church Building. — An ordinary camp arrangement would
not suffice for our large religious meetings. A church of con
siderable dimensions — fifty by twenty-five feet — was accordingly
planned; this to be used as church, reading-room, school-room,
and lecture-hall. The Lord opened the heart of every one, —
saint and sinner, — who was asked for help. All seemed to look
favorably upon, and contributed even more liberally than asked
towards the enterprise. Like the Israelites, in building the
tabernacle, all gave themselves willingly to the work. Our
brigadier general made requisition for a thousand feet of boards.

meade's CAMPAIGN IN VIRGINIA. 373
Our brigade quartermaster tendered an awning, twenty-six by
thirty feet, for covering ; the Christian Commission another,
as large, together with a stove ; our brigade wagon-master and
regimental quartermaster furnished four large wagons, for a
day, to haul the needed timber ; large squads of soldiers volun
teered to chop it; while axe-men and carpenters put it into
shape and location on the ground. A sutler gave me twenty-
five dollars to furnish the reading-room. Thus nobly went on
the work. So far was it advanced, that we were confident of
having it completed last Saturday evening, and dedicated on
the first Sabbath of the year ; yet all frustrated in an hour !
Axe and hammer have ceased upon our beautiful camp struc
ture, — for the erection was tasteful as well as commodious.
Such are the uncertainties of a campaigning life. Satan has
got a seeming advantage. We were, no doubt, too confident
of large success from that enterprise.

Hall Town, Va., January 19th, 1864.
Present Race of Men not Degenerated. — If Washing
ton, at Valley Forge or New Jersey, was in positions which
more severely tested the stuff which men are made — then did
those grandsires of ours deserve the appellation of sturdy
veterans. Often do I remember, while growing up to man
hood, to have given almost unpardonable offence to a dear old
grandfather, who was at Valley Forge with Washington, as he
inveighed against, and mourned over the imaginary physical
degeneracy of the rising generation — and this by roundly
asserting that among my own compeers there existed as much
32

374 camp, march and battle-field.
courage, patriotism, real manhood and capacity for physical
endurance as ever culminated in our sturdy grandpas of revo
lutionary fame. Little dreaming while uttering those juvenile
boastings, that the trial was so near, and the test to become so
terrible. Glad, however, that they have come. Our age and
generation have vindicated themselves. The present race has
neither retrograded nor grown more effeminate. On the con
trary, so fine a physical army as ours at present never before
trod the earth; and as one ofthe grand and elevating results of
the present war, the coming generation will present physical
developments and improvements never before witnessed in the
world's history — a race of giants.
A new City. — A week since, our boys got intimation that,
for their convenience, a new city might be erected. Six days'
incessant and well-directed labor have well nigh accomplished
the undertaking. When finished, it will be by far the most
regular, capacious and comfortable of any hitherto erected.
At this time the writer had unexpectedly and unasked a leave of
absence for sixty days sent him, in order to advance the interests of
"The American Tract Society," (Boston,) the Regiment the mean
while quietly inhabiting its new city.
At the expiration of the sixty days, returned to camp at Hall Town.
Our Regiment at the time was much agitated about re-enlistment for
an additional term of three years, which resulted in a sufficient number
re-enlisting, to insure the Regiment as a veteran one a month's furlough.
The month of April was accordingly spent in Pittsburgh and vicinity.
At dusk on the 3d of May we re-occupied our old camp at Brandy
Station, and reinaugurated our new service by a large and most
interesting prayer-meeting.

grant's campaign. 375

CHAPTER X.
MAY— JULY.
Spottstlvania Court House, 1
May 9th, 1864. /
Wilderness. — On the morning of May the 4th, we, with
the entire grand army of the Potomac, were in motion towards
the Rapidan. The dawn was clear, warm, and beautiful. As
the almost countless encampments were broken up, bands in all
directions playing lively airs, banners waiving, regiments, bri
gades, and divisions falling into line, with the various columns
moving in converging lines towards the rebel capital, — the
scene, even to eyes long familiar with military displays, was
one of unusual grandeur. Had Homer beheld it, — for, like
Milton, that fabulous old poet must have used his eyes at some
period of life, — a description even more sublime than that of
Grecian armies marshalling for the siege of Troy, — would be
the proud rehearsal of future ages; imposing as the concen
trating of Napoleon's grand army for the invasion of Russia.
By nightfall almost the entire army, crossing, without oppo
sition, at Germania Ford, was encamped on the opposite side of
the Rapidan. Thursday morning, May the 5th, arose in all
the exquisite loveliness of opening May, — tree, shrub, plant,
grass, bursting into bud and flower. Numerous birds carolled
forth their songs, unaffrighted by the presence of so many in-

376 camp, march and battle-field.
vaders. Carnage and bloodshed could with difficulty, even by
the imagination, be associated in near proximity with such a
scene of peace and loveliness.
We were again early in motion, and advanced four or five
miles through a region marked, and fitly so, on the maps of
Virginia, The Wilderness; undulating with occasional swamps,
— technically sloughs- — through which, if a man attempts to
walk, he sinks leg deep; some large trees, but generally a thick
growth of pine, cedar, oak, and hickory, with scarcely a field or
house. About noon, the enemy were suddenly encountered, without
any previous admonition of their near proximity. The locality
may be traced on military maps of Virginia by the following
direction : A plank road runs from Madison Court House to
Fredericksburg, crossing the Rapidan at Germania Ford. Along
this road our columns passed until another plank road was
struck, leading from Fredericksburg to Orange Court House, —
the place of intersection being some three or four miles west
from Chancellorsville. -Turning westward on this road two or
three miles, the enemy was encountered coming down the road
from Orange Court-House. A dozen or more years i-ince, the
timber had all been cut off this section, for the supply of an
iron furnace in the neighborhood. A thick young growth of
oak and hickory had sprung up. In these roads the confront
ing columns formed on each side of the road, and without delay
fiercely encountered each other. This description refers spe
cially to the second division, sixth corps. Other divisions ad
vanced by different ways to the battle.
The location afforded few facilities for the manoeuvring of
artillery, and hence but little was used. Our brigade was in
the front line, and advanced through the bushes until the rebel

grant's campaign. 377
line was discovered, and ours by them, within direct and deadly
range. Suddenly these hitherto quiet woods seemed to be lifted
up, shook, rent, and torn asunder. Thousands and thousands
of Minnie rifles united their sharp crack and ear -piercing sound,
rendering the tumult one of terrible grandeur. The mode of
fighting in such cases is to form a line of battle, two men deep,
one line of these about two paces behind the other. A similar
line of battle is formed fifty to a hundred paces in the rear of
the first, another in the rear of this, often to four or five. When
the battle opens, only the first line fires, the rear file of which
passes the muzzles of the guns over the shoulders of those in
front. At the first order to fire, the discharge is usually made
by the line simultaneously; after which, each soldier loads and
fires as fast as he is able. Thus, along the whole line, often
extending for miles, rolls an ever-recurring crash, crash, roar,
roar. Occasionally, and without any seeming concert, a mo
mentary cessation occurs, yet, like the lull in a hurricane, only to
increase its strength. When the front line becomes exhausted,
expends its ammunition, or suffers severely, the next line takes
its place; or, if heavily pressed, it falls back behind the second.
While the front line is engaged, the rear ones usually lie flat
upon their faces, in order to avoid, in some measure, the flying
bullets of the enemy, — a curious sight, at which I have often
taken a hearty laugh.
The slaughter, where we were, soon seemed terrible. Our
regiment was in the front line for three long, long hours; during.
which time, our colonel and Captain Drum, with a sorrowful
number from the ranks, were instantly killed ; while six of the
officers, and over a hundred privates, were wounded, with all
manner of mutilations. What awful, what sickening scenes!
No, we have ceased to get sick at such sights. Here a dear

378 camp, march and battle-field.
friend struck dead by a ball through the head or heart ! another
fallen with leg or thigh broken, and looking, resignedly, yet
wistfully, to you for help away from the carnage; another drop
ping his gun, quickly clapping his hand upon his breast, sto
mach, or bowels, through which a Minnie has passed, and walk
ing slowly to the rear to lie down and die; still another, yea,
many more, with bullet holes through various fleshy parts of
the body, from which the blood is freely flowing, walking back,
and remarking, with a laugh, somewhat distorted with pain, —
" See, the rascals have hit me." All this beneath a canopy of
sulphur and a bedlam of sounds, like confusion confounded.
Night at length put an end to the carnage, and left the two
armies much in the same position as at the opening of the
strife, our lines somewhat advanced, — both unsubdued, and still
fiercely confronting each other.
Early on Friday, the 6th, the work of death was resumed;
and, with various lulls, changes, and shiftings in different parts
ofthe long, extended lines, lasted all day. Night again put an
end to the struggle, leaving the contending armies substantially
in the same position as on the previous evening, our own lines
somewhat contracted. Never did troops support the character
of American soldiers better. Not one in our own regiment, so
far as my observation went, shrank for a moment from the
place of danger, — whether a new recruit or a veteran.
When the strife ceased on Friday, the second day, I went
back about two miles to one of the large depots for the wounded :
hospital, in this wilderness, there was none. Here, about two
thousand wounded had been collected. Such multiplied and
accumulated suffering is not often seen. Not half the wounded
from yesterday had yet been reached. All the surgeons present
were exerting themselves to their utmost; the few nurses all

grant's campaign. 379
busy. The Sanitary and Christian Commissions had, perhaps, a
dozen delegates, in all, present. These were unceasing in the
distribution of their various comforts to the sufferers; but
what were all these among so many? A tithe could seemingly
not be reached. When coming in from the field, my strength
seemed almost wholly exhausted; but, on seeing such a mass of
suffering and need, it revived, and I turned in to help during
that seemingly long night. To wait upon a multitude of help
less sufferers is a terrible tax, both upon the mental and bodily
energies. Oh, that we had now here a thousand of the gene
rous-hearted, kind-handed men and women from the North,
who would gladly hurry into this wilderness, were it possible !
During the fore part of the night, an order came to have
these wounded removed a number of miles towards Fredericks
burg, and the work commenced, with all the ambulances which
could be procured, yet was not completed for more than twenty-
four hours. On Saturday morning, forty-seven who had died
in this one locality, of the wounded during the past day and
night, were laid in a row and buried in one ditch.
Reader, our Union, our liberties, our hopes for the future
must be very precious. This is their price.

Spottsvlvania, May 16th, 1864.
It is now the twelfth day since this long death-struggle com
menced between these two immense armies, and with the ex
ception of yesterday, an almost unceasing strife, a rage and tur
moil of bloodshed. During this period, the rebels have been
pressed back, towards Richmond, some twenty miles— or rather

380 camp, march and battle-field.
they have fallen back, as we have not, as yet, been able to
drive them from any of their strong positions, and well they
know how to choose such. For this, also, the country into
which we have come, affords them every possible facility
Small streams, swamps, low ranges of hills, thick woods, with
dense underbrush, and they on the defensive. Invariably do
they await the attack. Our brave soldiers have to advance
against them by wading through creeks and swamps, tearing
through thick bushes and dense undergrowth, in which many
of them have their clothes almost torn from off them, — often
not discovering the enemy until their deadly fire, a few rods
distant, reveals their presence and strong position. The fighting
of the past ten days much more resembles the old back-woods'
contests with the Indians, than modern, or what may be termed
" civilized " warfare. Often, on account of thick woods, our
fighting soldiers are not able to see a dozen of their comrades, or
scarcely obtain a glimpse of the enemy, who, at the same time,
is discharging such deadly volleys. Many, many a brave sol
dier has been left unburied to decay in these jungles, with no
living person to tell where he lies. To fight and maintain dis
cipline under such conditions, requires the most exalted courage
and devotion. This Army of the Potomac has started for
Richmond, and seems determined to go there, no matter how
many enemies and other obstacles may stand in the way. All
opposition must finally yield to obstinate and persevering valor.
Wounded Rebel. — During the second day of the battle in
the Wilderness, and during a lull in the carnage, I was sitting
on Jessie, and resting in a place where the rebel line of battle
had been the previous day. Their wounded had been generally
removed, while the dead lay thickly scattered in all directions

grant's campaign. 381
and positions. One of their wounded, which had been either
overlooked or they unable or unwilling to remove him, lay near
a tree where I stopped. Dismounting, I drew near him, with
the familiar salutation :
"Well, friend, how are you getting along?"
Eyeing me with evident suspicion, mingled with some fierce
ness, he slowly responded :
"Wall, stranger, bad enough."
"Any thing I can do for you?" was inquired.
Seeing I was not about to insult or kill him outright, his
tone and manner became greatly modified, while responding :
"See here, stranger! now, in the first place, I oughtn't to
have been here."
Assuring him that no difference of opinion existed respecting
that matter, and that this was not the time and place to have
the matter discussed and settled, the question was repeated :
" What can be done for you?"
"Wall, if I could only be turned over. Both my thighs
seem broken, and lying just in this one way since yesterday, has
made me awful tired."
Getting outside of him, and bending down, he was directed
to put his arms around me, and help himself as well as he could.
We soon succeeded in getting him twisted over.
"Thar," said he; "that's better: thank ye."
"Got any water?"
"Nary a drop since yesterday."
A little was poured into his cup from my canteen.
"Could you eat a cracker?"
"Got nun."
Two were handed him, which were eyed with special interest
and curiosity. -By this time his fear and fierceness were both

382 camp, march, and battle-field.
gone, and his eyes filled with tears. A living Yankee had met
him, and instead of being insulted or killed outright, he was re
ceiving at least apparent kindness.
" Got a wife?" I queried.
"Yes, yes, and a whole lot of children, away in North Caro
lina; and oh, if I was only with Mammy now," meaning his
wife." Just then two of our young men came up, with an empty
stretcher. I hailed them, and asked if they would not carry
this wounded enemy back to our hospital ?
" Certainly."
And almost as soon as said, the helpless rebel was lifted on
the stretcher, and the young men in motion with it. This was
too much for all the wounded man's stoicism and animosity.
Breaking down altogether, he commenced crying like a baby,
and could only exclaim, as he was borne away :
"Wall, now, this does beat all."
The fierceness and animosity infused into the Southern army
by the leaders of this wicked rebellion, had evidently led him
to expect far different treatment, should he be unfortunate
enough ever to fall into the hands of these bloody Yanks.
When, however, the arms shall be finally knocked out of the
hands of these misguided men, they will learn that both North
ern soldiers and citizens are so widely different from what they
have been led to believe, that we shall henceforth have not only
a lasting but a loving peace. The truth is, you could not in
duce our soldiers to retaliate upon the persons of helpless ene
mies. Though meeting them with all the sternness of death-
dealing war, so long as arms are in their hands, yet so soon as
helpless at their feet, they become, to these rebels, tender as to
little children.

grant's campaign. 383
Near Spottsylvania Court House, 1
Saturday, May 2d, 1864. J
Condition of Things in Front. — This great struggle for
mastery, such as the world has scarcely ever before witnessed,
has continued for sixteen days. All this while, lulls in the
strife of blood have been taken, merely sufficient to refit or
change position in order to a still fiercer renewal of the contest.
No permanent advantage has, as yet, been gained by either
combatant. Like two sturdy, well-trained pugilists, who have
been scientifically pounding and bruising each other for the
twentieth round, yet neither vanquished, retiring, in order to
be sponged and refitted, again to enter the ring to renew the
struggle; but now, with more caution than formerly, continue
to spar and change position, each eagerly watching for an
opportunity to strike the decisive blow.
Fierceness of the Struggle. — A visitor to the scenes of
our late conflicts, might form some correct estimate of their
fierceness and obstinacy from evidences remaining of the tre
mendous projectile forces used. The old Hougmont farm
house, at- Waterloo, still stands to witness, by its mutilation,
that a great battle was once fought there ; but, had the Houg
mont stood between our armies, at some points, during their
late fiercest conflicts, not a board, plank, beam, stone or brick,
would have been left together. If history be now remembered,
an old orchard still remains, which stood between the hostile
armies at Waterloo, where the curious traveller can see, by
numerous bullet marks upon the trees, how sharp must have
been the contest. Had an orchard been between some of our
late strifes of blood, not a limb nor a trunk, but would have
been shattered to pieces. At one locality, technically termed'

384 camp, march and battle-field.
by our boys, " The slaughter-pen," I saw large white-oak trees
splintered to fragments by shell and solid shot, as though riven
by a dozen fierce thunderbolts. In the young timber, described
in a previous letter, where the first two days' battles were
fought, and no larger missiles used than Minnie bullets, sap
lings as large as an ordinary man's leg, thigh, or even body,
were peeled, scarred and pierced, from the ground some eight
or ten feet ; many of them entirely cut off and fallen over, as
though a hundred axe-men had been at them. A single small
tree was pierced, on either side, by more than fifty bullets, each
sufficient to have killed a man. How flesh and blood lived for
. five minutes amid such a hurricane of bullets seems truly a
marvel; and some of these hurricanes continued for hours.
Revolting Sights. — One of the fiercest and bloodiest con
tests of this long struggle, took place on Wednesday and
Thursday, May 11th and 12th, at the slaughter-pen. In this,
our brigade suffered very heavy loss. On Friday morning, we
were withdrawn from the locality, leaving dead men and horses
thickly strewn around and unburied. On Wednesday the 18th,
at dawn, after a toilsome, sleepless night, in changing position,
we were brought to renew the bloody drama on this same spot.
Within twelve rods of where we halted, lay twelve artillery
horses, so close as to touch each other, now a mass of putrefac-
faction. From where I stood and in front of a rebel rifle-pit,
lay stretched in all positions, over fifty of our unburied soldiers,
and within the pit, and lying across each other, perhaps, as
many rebel dead. It seems almost incredible what a change
a little less than a week had wrought, by exposure to sun and
hot air. The hair and skin had fallen from the head, and the
flesh from the bones, all alive with disgusting maggots. Many

grant's campaign. 385
of the soldiers stuffed their nostrils with green leaves. Such a
scene does seem too revolting to record. Yet, how else convey
any just conception of what is done and suffered here ? Should
any home-stayer be yet indulging in the poetry of war, would
that this were not merely read but the sight itself seen ! But,
why were not these dead buried ? Send on all the undertakers
in the North to offer or perform their functions. " Let the
dead bury their dead," becomes too frequently the literal lan
guage of unrelenting war. Too busy, often, are all the living
in killing the living, to think of burying the slain. Nor has it
always been possible, during this surging struggle'-, to hold the
locations where our brave men fell, a sufficient time to bury
them. An Incident. — After marching and countermarching,
taking our position, then assuming another, during nearly all
of a long, weary night — for a summer's night thus spent seems
very long — marching through woods, and jungles, and swamps;
across creeks, and fences, and ditches, we were halted near the
dawn of the 20th inst., on the place where a severe skirmish
had taken place late the previous evening. The ground was
gladly occupied as a couch until clear dawn.- When day had
risen, a dead soldier was discovered lying near, who had fallen in
the previous skirmish. He had been shot through the knee, and,
in the absence of a surgeon, and through his own ignorance as
to how the blood might have been stanched, had evidently bled
to death through a severed artery. Something specially attractive
there was in that manly form, that pale face, and those blue
eyes still open and looking up to heaven. An effort was made
to ascertain who and whence he was; which had well nigh
proved unsuccessful, until, unbottoning his vest, there was

386 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
found in an inside pocket a letter, written in a neat female
hand, but a week since, and post-marked away in Perry, Maine.
In the envelope, was also a small ambrotype of the writer. The
contents revealed that the fair writer and the dead soldier had
been married but a few weeks previously — and full was it of
every endearing epithet and expression — closing thus : " Dear
Jerry, your own Nettie is very lonely. Oh, may God spare
you to come back safe, when this cruel war is over." Poor
Nettie Loring; when a hastily written note from myself, with
your own letter and ambrotype to dear Jerry (yet none from
himself,) reaches you, if, happily or unhappily, they may, God
comfort the stricken and disconsolate one. Were all such inci
dents, so terribly multiplying in this war, collected, what a
volume of strange interest would it be to every feeling heart !
Religious Influences. — Little time there is for the ordi
nary worship of God; snatched occasions only for religious ser
vices. Yet during the past week, we have been enabled to
hold meetings for preaching and prayer every other evening,
and such meetings, we have not had since this service began.
To the sound of singing at eventide, assembles, from our own
and other regiments, a crowd great enough to pack a large city
church, standing during service in a large dense circle. Such
earnestness, too, such attention, such devotion and solemnity.
Why should it not be 1 On several of these occasions, a num
ber, who participated in them, ere the next meridian sun, were
at the bar of God.

grant's campaign. 387
South of the Pamunkey River, near Hanover 1
Court House, May 28th, 1864. /
As to how we came here from Spottsylvania Court House, a
volume would scarcely suffice to tell. What skirmishings and
fightings — what long, long, weary marches by day and night —
what countermarches, now far to the right, again away to the
left — passing over hot, dusty roads, corduroy bridges and pon
toons; through mud, creeks, fields, woods, swamps, and sloughs,
amid moonlight and thick darkness; showers, thunder-storms,
and sunshine. Much of this may never, can never be written;
and were it, could not be understood by those not exercised
therein. No matter; we are here on the south bank of the
Pamunkey river, which we lately crossed on a pontoon bridge.
Yes, here again on the Peninsula, although from another point
than formerly approached. Again on this Peninsula, where,
two years ago, we endured so much, suffered so terribly, and
from whence we retreated so ingloriously. The future will tell
whether this latter coming will prove more successful than the
first. The Country.— Fine section through which we have passed
from Spottsylvania. So many natural advantages are possessed
as render it capable of becoming a garden spot of earth. Its
parasite — slavery — has been long and steadily sucking out its
juices, and marring its fair beauty. Still the beholder is ready
to exclaim—" Grand old Virginia, mother of States and Pre
sidents!" Starving Out the Rebels. — This nonsense we have occa
sionally endeavored to combat in letters for the past three years.
" Starved out." Yes, so have we been assured a hundred times

388 camp, march and battle-field.
over by bogus legislators, ignorant, conceited newspaper re
porters, and still more senseless editors. " Rebellion is on its
lkst legs. Its supplies nearly every one cut off. In a very brief
period it will thus he forced to submit." Dear reader, here
after don't believe a word of such stuff. The rebellion is neither
starved out, nor likely to be. There is but one way of putting
down the rebellion-^i^fo it down.
More corn has been planted the present season, and will be
raised in Virginia alone, than will suffice not only her own in
habitants, but the whole of the rebel army, for the next two
years. Wherever we have gone in this campaign, immense
fields of corn well cultivated, greet the eye. It all looks well,
the young stalks in many fields being already knee high. In
not a few places has the forest been cleared during the past
winter, and planted in corn. And, strange to say, although
the rebel army preceded us, there was scarcely a farm we came
to, where there was not some little out- house, or large crib, full
of old corn in the ear. Around these our artillery and cavalry
men would gather, like hungry crows over a carcass, and cease
not till all would be carried off to feed their weary horses.
Living on Corn. — But are the inhabitants of rebeldom, as
well as her soldiers, willing to live and fight only on corn ? Not
tvilling, perhaps, but prepared. I have taken pains to examine
not a few haversacks still strapped to dead rebels where they
fell in battle. In a majority of them nothing was found, save
corn meal, in some fine and white, in others almost as coarse as
hominy. Others had turned their meal, as best they could, into
thick, hard corn-cake. A few were found containing small
pieces of bacon, and others, little packages of coffee and wheat,
mixed together and browned, ready to be bruised when wanted. .

grant's campaign. 389
The patriotism of our army is not to be questioned, yet is it
-somewhat doubtful whether this fearful strife could be conti
nued, were we so fed. This war has stirred up all the latent
energies of rebeldom. They are dreadfully in earnest, ready
for any sacrifice; and in these conditions are to be met. The
only way to accomplish this is to break their military power in
battle. This, with tremendous efforts, we have been endeavor
ing to accomplish, and with varied and hopeful success. The
business is by no means finished. Friends at home must not be
misled by flaming editorials and trumped-up newspaper reports.
Send on the supplies and re-enforcements.
Rebel Army Demoralized? — Nothing of the kind. To
day it is as well organized, as numerous, and as inveterate as at
any former period. Through the masterly tactics of Grant, arid
the unparalleled struggles of our soldiers, Lee has often fallen
baik, not unbroken, from post to post, yet has each one of these
recedings rendered our work of finally beating them more diffi
cult'; carrying us still farther from our base of operations, sup
plies, and re-enforcements. Every one, with half a military idea,
will readily believ«»that our losses, in killed and wounded, were
much greater than the rebels. How could it be otherwise?
Almost invariably we had to make the assaults upon Lee's vete
ran army, posted in rifle-pits, behind breastworks, and in hiding
places, where one soldier was equal to. two making the attack.
These things are not written under any feeling of discourage
ment, much less to discourage others. We were never more
hopeful, nor filled with greater encouragement. They are espe
cially written to preserve the reputation of our brave generals,
and still braver soldiers, should this war, of necessity, be conti-

390 camp, march and battle-field.
nued far beyond the period when our ardent Northern expecta
tion demands it to be finished.

Battle Field, Coal Harbor, Va., June 6th, 1864.
Were passing events merely written of, there would be but a
repetition; a long, sickening, almost endless detail of bloodshed;
of killing, of ghastly mutilation on the human body, from the
crown of the head to the sole of the foot, not a single part of it
that has not often been seen torn, lacerated, and broken in every
possible manner. Even a sickly public curiosity may have at
length become sated, sickened, clogged with these bloody
details. Yet of what else can we write ? Our duties, our
daily and nightly business, are with the dead, the dying and
the tortured sufferer.
And still this death struggle is waged with, if possible, in
creased earnestness and fury. No appearance of a termination.
Each party as apparently ready for the conflict as when begun
in the Wilderness a month since. Here we are in front of an
old dilapidated farm and mansion called Coal Harbor, some ten
miles east from Richmond, where the right wing of our army
camped in 1862. Here we are with an unceasing cannonade
and musketry roar — cutting down trees and bushes, carrying
rails with fragments of demolished houses and old buildings,
and piling them up for defences, digging ditches and throwing
up long and parallel ridges of earth, both as means for assault
and modes of defence against the missiles of the enemy. In
many places these works are now pushed up within a stone's
throw of the enemy. Should a soldier on either side make a

grant's campaign. 391
fair exhibition of head or body by day, he is pretty sure to
have a Minnie-ball through the same.
Labor in Field Hospital. — A few days since I was assign
ed to duty by the proper authorities, as chaplain to our Division
Hospital, yet with the understanding that my own Regiment
could be visited each day. This hospital for seventeen regi
ments, is located about two miles to the rear of the front
line. Here the wounded from these regiments are brought
back ; some able to walk, others on stretchers and in ambulances.
Here they have their wounds examined and dressed and
amputations performed, if found necessary. When the wound
ed have accumulated sufficiently, they are sent to White-House
Landing, sixteen miles distant, in a long train of ambulances
and army wagons.
In our Division (2d Div. 6th Corps,) we have about thirty
large tents and awnings, and the ground beneath these is not
unfrequently entirely covered with helpless, bleeding, mutilated,
agonizing sufferers. What scenes ! Some are dead ere they
can be conveyed to the Hospital; some die under operation or
while their wounds are being dressed ; while others linger in
pain for hours or days, ere the relief of death comes. A large
majority are able to be conveyed away Northward.
The duties assigned me for the present, are to see that the
dead are all buried, with, if possible, suitable religious ceremo
nies, see to the moral wants of the sufferers, and hold such
religious services as may be convenient or possible in our
condition.

392 camp, march and battle-field.
Charles City Court House, "t
June 16, 1864. /
Two years ago, after a series of bloody battles, the last of
which at Malvern Hill — the most decided victory to the Union
arms of the war — we were huddled up at Harrison's Landing
like a flock of sheep, in a rather small pen, for forty-seven
mortal days, after which we retreated as quietly and as fast as
we could past this old Charles City, C. H., in order to try our
chances against the rebels in other localities, and perchance
better auspices.
What an interval ! Since last here, we have met the rebels
in deadly conflict at Manasses, at Bull Run, at Centreville and
Chantilly, at South Mountain and Antietam, twice at Fre
dericksburg, at Salem Heights and Chancellorsville, at Gettys
burg, at Rappahannock Station and Kelly's Ford, and lately
for two days in the Wilderness, for a week a death-struggle in
the slaughter pens of Spottsylvania, on the North Anna and
Pamunkey, for a week in the region of Coal Harbor, and now
we are here. A large circle complete ; two years to make it ;
thirty miles yet from Richmond. If only the veterans who
•left Harrison Landing on the 18th of August, 1862. consti
tuted the army which has now returned, how insignificant the
number ! — melted away in that score of dreadful conflicts.
Brave heroes of the former Peninsular army, you have not
fought and died in vain. Almost a new army is here, greater
in numbers, in prowess and determination to take Richmond,
with, as all believe, a greater General to lead the enterprise.
Property Abandoned by the Way. — Were things to
remain just as left along our strangely winding course from
Brandy Station to James River, what a scene of interest to

grant's campaign. 393
retrace the journey ! If the way the Syrian host fled from the
sound of imaginary chariot-wheels was traced by the messengers
sent out, and returning with the declaration, " Lo, all the way
from Samariato Jordan was full of garments and vessels which
the Syrians had cast away in their haste !" much more could
our broad, tortuous course, from the Rapidan to the James
be traced by things cast away. Starting early in the season,
and from winter quarters, nearly all the soldiers commenced the
campaign with their blankets and over- coats. At present we
feel confident it would be a very difficult matter to find a soldier
in the whole army in possession of these two articles. It will
be safe to assert that seventy-five thousand over-coats, and as
many good blankets, lie strewn between this and Brandy
Station. As the weather increased in warmth, and the battles
in fierceness, away would go over-coat ; then another effort, and
away would go blanket, soldiers preferring to take the rains,
the damps and the chills by night, to a burdensome load on the
march and battle-field. In our marches a delicate-footed per
son might have walked four miles along the way-side on
blankets, overcoats, and other garments. On the wide-extended
battle-fields, which, in our late campaigns, have generally been
in the woods, one must witness in order to have any concep
tion what war equipments, human apparel and appendages lie
scattered in every direction. Guns, bayonets and their scab
bards, cartridge-boxes and cap-boxes, blankets, over-coats, shirts,
drawers, socks, hats and shoes; haversacks, both full and
empty, with knapsacks, tin-cups, coffee-boilers, little frying-
pans, note-books, portfolios, — nothing that goes to make up the
necessities of a healthful camp-life that has not been vilely cast
away, carelessly abandoned, or fallen from the shoulders and
hands of killed and wounded soldiers. How truthfully and

394 camp, march and battle-field.
feelingly did David sing after the defeat of Israel, and death of
Saul, and Jonathan on Gilboa: "There, the shield of the
mighty is vilely cast away, — the shield of Saul, as though it
had not been anointed with oil — the weapons of war have
perished !"
Our track is also marked by the rotting carcasses of perhaps
ten thousand horses, and as many mules, killed in the service,
or worn out, abandoned, and, as generally done, shot. Many
a rude mound of earth, two feet wide and six long, called a
grave, with bleaching bones of both friend and foe, helps also
to mark our desolating pathway. A track, like the course of
some resistless hurricane, whose force no opposing obstacle has
been able to resist !
Having no change of apparel, the wardrobe of our soldiers
is hence becoming rather dilapidated. Forty-five days of in
cessant, rugged service by night as well as by day, through
swamp and wilderness; cutting and dragging timber, digging-
ditches, lying in the dust, mud, rain and sunshine ; fighting
battles, with long marches, haye proved more than a match for
the endurance of government shoes, pants and blouses. Many
of our brave fellows would certainly make a ludicrous appear
ance in a home circle. One thing, however, is certain ; though
they might feel somewhat abashed in a company of fashionably
dressed ladies, yet are they disturbed by no such feeling when
in front of the enemy.

Battle-piei,t>. six miles south from Petersrurg, Va. "I
June 29th, 1864. /
Rifle Pits. — Much is said and written at present concern
ing their structure and use. The term has become a rather

grant's campaign. 395
general one, designating almost any military construction, for
offence or ..defence. The term was, perhaps, first used during
the Crimean war. As the earth-works of the French and
^ English were advancing against the Redan and Malakoff, they
were accustomed, by night, to advance their pickets in front,
who would dig round holes in the ground in which three or
four sharp-shooters would conceal themselves, and thus be able
to annoy the Russian gunners and sentinels. These holes
were called Rifle-pits. Now, however, the term is used to
designate not merely a round or square hole in the ground, but
a ditch, breastwork or embankment miles in length.
Number and Extent of these Structures. — The whole
country between this and the Rapidan, has been made lite
rally a region of Rifle-pits. In the construction and use of
these, • the rebels have evidently excelled, and we have been
forced to take lessons from them. Whenever and wherever
we have advanced against them, we have invariably found
them hidden in ditches, burrowed in pits and ensconced behind
formidable earth-works. During our present campaign it has
been the almost invariable practice, when in close proximity to
the enemy, and before proceeding to attack, to throw up rifle-
pits the whole extent of our front, often four or five miles in
length. This, in general, not for use, but as a precautionary
measure. Being the invading army, we are still compelled to
make the assault. These rifle-pits are constructed, so that in
case of any repulse or disaster, they are a ready and concerted
place in which to rally and repel an advancing enemy. In
various instances already, they have proved a wise precaution.

396 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
Facility of Construction. — This would altogether con
found railroad builders, canal makers, ditch-diggers and shovel
lers generally. A section of country quiet and unbroken at
eventide — by nature's arrangements and a little careless farming
— will by morning-light, witness a rifle-pit from three to six x
miles in length, constructed through woods and jungles, over
hill and dale, across field and farm; not in a direct line, but
zig-zag, in order to suit, in military judgment, the nature and
inclination of the ground. The next morning-light, may wit
ness a similar structure erected as if by magic a hundred yards
in front of the first, then another and another, until the enemy's
works be finally reached, or the place quietly abandoned for
some new scene of operations and fresh constructions of rifle-
pits. Mode of Construction. — A number of wagons filled with
intrenching tools always accompanies the army. But to facili
tate matters, each brigade has usually a number of mules with
pannioles and these stuck full of axes, picks and shovels.
There are also various pioneer corps, in which each man carries
a chopping or digging tool. When a rifle-pit is to be con
structed, each regiment is usually ordered to perform the labor
on that portion in its own front. If no timber be available, a
simple ditch is dug, say three feet wide and three feet deep, the
dirt thrown in front — the side next the enemy, thus making
with the ditch a protection as high as a man's shoulder, and
over which he can point and rest his gun at an approaching
enemy, his head only being exposed.
Should rails or small timber be available, short posts are
driven into the ground close in front of where the ditch is to
be dug, and a rail or small tree laid on the ground and against

grant's campaign. 397
the posts on the outside. As the earth is thrown over and
rises, a second rail or log is laid on the first, and also against
the posts, and thus continued until an inner wall of wood
strongly flanked by earth on the outside, is raised to the
desired height. Such a structure is much more neat and
more conveniently used than a mere erection of earth. Not
unfrequently have I seen houses, barns, sheds and out-houses
torn down, and the fragments converted into such structures in
a space of time that would astonish the uninitiated. The work
is performed by detachments, each commanded by a proper
officer whose duty it is to see that all the work is properly
done and that each soldier does his duty. These detachments
are relieved every half or whole hour, thus enabling the work
to progress uninterruptedly and vigorously. Considering the
amount of labor and drudgery actually performed by our army,
the query may well be started; "How do our brave soldiers
endure all these sleepless choppings, diggings, marches, fatigues
and battles ?" They do indeed seem to be made of iron.
Ipromptu Rifle-pits. — A week since, when the advance
was made on Petersburgh, our regiment with others was
advanced as skirmishers to within about half a mile of the city,
and far within the outer works of the enemy which had been
captured. On ascending a rising ground, they found the
rebels in an open field, and within direct rifle range of heavy
earth-works, behind which the rebels were strongly posted, and
from whom volleys of Minnie bullets came singing and
whistling in such a manner as to kill and wound almost at
once, over twenty of our regiment. To advance with but a
skirmish line, was to instant death, to fall back was against
orders. All at once, fell flat on the ground which was dry and
34

398loamy. Without pick or shovel, each soldier immediately
commenced a rifle-pit on his own hook, using his bayonet, if
need were, to loosen the earth and his tin cup for a shovel.
One had no tin cup and worked away lustily with his spoon.
The officers, for once at least, found convenient use for their
swords in the construction of these hasty life-preservers. The
position was held, and in a few minutes, each one had a little
pit, fronted by a small bank of earth, in and behind which, as
true Northern mud-sills, they lay comparatively safe from the
continued shower of rebel bullets.
Dust. — Long have I been familiar with a kind of metaphori
cal expression, kicking up a dust, used when some sudden
disturbance or miniature row was extemporized. No occasion
for metaphors or other figures of speech here, Mr. Reader.
A real dust is kicked up, with every step, man, horse or mule
ventures to make, as well as at every rotation of a wheel. This
sacred soil of Virginia, on which we are at present trying to
exist, seems made of dust. If memory serves, it has not rained
for a month. The weather is intensely, awfully, roastingly hot.
All moisture has seemingly left the soil, and it has become
much like a newly burnt bed of ashes. Wherever our immense
host of men, animals, wagons, ambulances and artillery goes,
the ground is at once worked into the finest dust, to the depth
of from three to six inches — whicli rises and spreads itself like
the ashes of Moses, small dust in all the land. As movements
of infantry, artillery, cavalry, wagons, and ambulances, are
constantly going on, there is, in consequence, an unceasing
cloud of dust.
Every thing seems turning to dust. All things, yourself
included, assuming the color of dust. You see nothing but

grant's campaign. 399
dust — you smell dust, you eat dust, you drink dust. Your
clothes, blanket, tent, food, drink, are all permeated with dust.
You walk in dust, you halt in dust, you lie down in dust, you
sleep in dust, you wake in dust, you live in dust — you are
emphatically dusty. Adding largely to our discomforts — amid
heat and dust — the region affords no adequate supply of water
for such a host. Long trains of horses and mules are daily
seen led by their drivers for miles, in search of water for the
thirsty animals. Squads of soldiers, with empty canteens,
wandering every where through fields and woods, and often
vainly in search of water. Quite comfortable and romantic,
dear reader, this soldiering business ! Yet one seeming marvel
is connected with it all : these brave, noble generous union
soldiers are cheery and hopeful under all these terrible dis
couragements.

Battle-Field near Petersburg, July 1st, 1864.
Our flank movements have, in due time, brought us upon
the south side of the James river, and into a position from
whence the spires of Petersburg are in full view. Soon, the
old business over again, cannonading, long and loud, with, as
usual, but few people hurt, or small injury thereby. Then, rifle
practice, sharp, continued and bloody — hospitals, with wounded
to care for and dead to bury. Here is the Potomac army at a
seemingly dead stand. No more flank movements practicable.
Richmond not yet captured, nor soon likely to be. Notwith
standing the fearful amount of blood, toil and treasure, with
frequent change of base and locality, during the past two

400 camp, march and battle-field.
months, yet has no apparent advantage been gained over Lee —
scarcely an insignificant rifle-pit taken from the rebels and
retained. General Grant finds it a far different matter push
ing aside Western armies and capturing Vicksburg, to conquer
ing Lee and entering Richmond. This', nevertheless, a dogged
perseverence may yet accomplish; though before Petersburg,
which is but an outpost of Richmond, we may be compelled to
to burrow for six months to come.
Burying the Dead. — A much greater interest, attention
and care, are manifested in this matter than even at the open
ing of this terrible war. Wherever and whenever it is practi
cable, the greatest respect is shown, by his surviving messmates
and even by strangers, also, to the body and burial of the dead
soldier. The grave; the winding-sheet, usually the only one
possible, his. own bloody garments entwined in his blanket; the
gentleness with which he is let down into his resting place;
filling up the grave; leaving it the ordinary shape above ground;
marking the board to be set at the head of the grave, plainly,
with name, regiment, company, state, and day of death; the
little ever-green planted at the head and foot; and, often, the
fast-falling tear; all proclaim that hardness of heart and blunt-
ness of feeling have no place here.
While vainly dashing against the rebel lines and rifle-pits,
at Coal Harbor, I was detailed for duty at our Division hospi
tal, and, among other things specially mentioned, was to see to
burying the dead in the most appropriate manner; having, as
far as my judgment dictated, religious services in connection.
An arrangemelit like this, so far as we know, was not thought of
at the commencement of this war. Said service afforded me a
more special opportunity for looking at this matter in detail.

GRANT S CAMPAIGN. 401
At Coal Harbor, for ten days together, we had out of our hos
pital, six to ten burials daily; yet, in all that multiplied and so
oft-repeated service, I did not witness in any one present the
slightest indecorum.
Not only this, but a new and unwonted attention was given,
by all concerned, to every particular. The graves, which were
arranged in long parallel rows, were mounded in the neatest pos
sible manner, and made as smooth as the spade and labor could
render them. A young man, well skilled in all manner of let
tering, is in connection with the hospital. By him a board for
each grave was prepared, all made similar, with name, regi
ment, company, state, and day of death, all beautifully lettered
thereon, in pencil. One poor fellow, who died without our
being able to learn his name or any of his connections, had a
beautiful wreath of flowers pencilled on his head-board, with
the words in large letters, " The Unknown."
Before leaving Coal Harbor, a neat enclosure was made
around the graves, and a row of young pine trees planted en
tirely around the enclosure. The young artist who did the let
tering took a hasty sketch of the place, before leaving, which I
am sending to a friend in order to be photographed.
The same care and attention has been manifested with re
spect to the dead, wherever our hospital has been located, in
connection with battle-fields before Petersburg. The Rev. A.
G. M'Auley, of Philadelphia, connected with the Christian
Commission, who has had, perhaps, as extensive opportunities
of noticing this matter in the army as any other, on seeing one
of our burying places, a few days since, near Petersburg, ex
pressed himself as greatiy pleased with this evident increase of
interest and attention to the burial of our soldier dead ; remark-
34*

402 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
ing, also, that the one looked at, was the most beautiful of the
kind he had ever seen during the whole war.
' Such assurance may bring a little comfort to those who have
loved dead buried, far away and by strangers, beside field-hos
pitals and on the battle-field. It may also afford a hope to those
not thus afflicted, that, when this cruel war is over, our soldiers
then living are not to return home a set of hardened, unfeeling
men, wholly unfitted, then and thereafter, for the duties and
sympathies of a civilized life.
Lawful to be Taught by an Enemy. — This was a trite
and sensible old maxim. The magnitude and difficulties con
nected with our present civil commotions, should render us as
a people docile of teaching from all sources whence practical
information may be drawn. We are, however, such a proud
and conceited folk, having such an evident consciousness of our
own greatness, and so glorying in our superior shrewdness,
wisdom and ability, that we are quite unwilling to assume the
attitude of docility and become learners at any despised shrine
of knowledge, becoming especially indignant when invited to
borrow from, and in certain matters become imitators of our
rebel enemies.
Home Leagues. — Woman's Self-denial. — Quite a stir
has been made in various places through the North, by the for
mation of Home Leagues among the ladies, they pledging them
selves, after speeches, essays, and various patriotic deliverances,
to eat nothing, wear nothing, use nothing, buy nothing, of
foreign manufacture and importation while our present war-
struggles continue. This covenant is, perhaps, modified in cer
tain high places with the cautious proviso, " Unless the article

grant's campaign. 403
desired cannot be purchased in the home market, nor of domes
tic manufacture."
No one possessing any intelligent conception of Northern so
ciety, with its present conditions, ever seriously imagined that
these leagues were about to become general, or exert any visi
ble or practical influence in stopping the enormous flow of our
gold and silver to foreign countries, for their gewgaws and
luxuries. The few ladies who are in earnest in this matter,
might as well clasp hands and wade into the Niagara river
above the falls with a view to stop its current, as thus attempt
to dam up the present broad and deep flow of pride, extrava
gance and luxury.
Southern Women. — Several favorable oceasions were af
forded me, during the past season, for forming a somewhat correct
judgment with respect to the feelings and purposes of Southern
women in connection with this war. Former convictions have
thus been greatly strengthened, that the South stands to-day
quite as much indebted for a successful prolongation of this
struggle to her women, as to her generals and soldiers in the
field. Fully, fiercely, terribly, malignantly, have they entered
into this conflict. In many localities, I am fully persuaded
that neither friend, relative nor neighbor, capable of bearing
arms, would be allowed to remain at home. The females, in
their zeal, would find some means to drive him away into the
military service. A number of these Confederate females have
declared to me, that although their present sacrifices are a
seeming necessity, yet, by the loyal women of the South as they
term them — and- they are all thus terribly loyal — these sacri
fices are most cheerfully borne ; that could each of their former
luxuries be now commanded, all would cheerfully go to the

404 CAMP, MARCH AND BATTLE-FIELD.
government and army ; and that they have a pride as well as
principle in using a home production both of food and apparel,
however coarse.
Not long since, during our numerous marchings and camp
ings, I was called to visit on pass and military duty, a family of
F. F. V.'s, from all appearance, previously to the war, the home
of wealth, refinement and luxury, but now, owing to the march
ing over and camping thereon of our immense army, every
thing was laid waste. Able-bodied slaves were all gone; a few,
too old and too young for use, left as a burden; fences, cattle,
crops, out-houses, all having disappeared; the old homestead,
with a small yard enclosed by palings, alone remaining. The
family were a dignified old gentleman, several daughters, and
some female relatives, the son being in the Southern army.
After the business in hand was arranged, a long and interest
ing conversation ensued.
When speaking of the desolation of every thing around, in
quiry was made, as to how they expected to get through the
coming season, " The Lord only knows, for I do not !" was the
old gentleman's sad response. A daughter of some twenty ,
summers, full of life, energy, and bubbling over with Southern
and Confederate sympathies, interposed, " Oh, never fear, we'll
get through somehow. We are now living, and rather com
fortably too, on what, before the war, we carelessly threw away.
Before this war commenced, the idea of doing what is called
work never once entered my mind; now, I am laboring hard
every day from morn to eve, and feel the better for it. We'll
get along some way."
Thus it is that the Lord is strangely working a speedy and
radical revolution in all the social feelings and habits of the

grant's campaign. 405
South, lowering pride and vanity; levelling a self-constituted
aristocracy to the ordinary grade of human sympathies and
duties; developing also in an unexpected and remarkable man
ner, the latent energies of what we have been wont to look upon
as an almost effete race. More than this also, God is unloosing
those that were bound, elevating the lowly, removing stumbling
blocks, and placing before a long despised race, new hopes, new
desires, and new prospects, with the addition of a field hitherto
unseen for rewarded energy and industry.
When this war has terminated with a restored Union and
permanent peace, all the people of the South will be found in
an entirely novel condition; full of energy, zeal and self-re
liance, henceforth to become vigorous, yet loving competitors
to the North in all the elements of national greatness, a popu
lation which in coming years will wonderfully develop the
national resources of this glorious Southern portion of our
Union ; making it, as it ought to be, a garden spot of the earth.

Washington, D. C, July 21, 1864.
The strange mutations of this ever-varying, ever-changing
war, enable me to date my present letter from Washington, the
very Capital itself; this place the concentration of Brother
Jonathan's family influences, this centre of Uncle Sam's civil
wisdom and military power, this city of offices and officers, of
scattered public buildings of magnificent distances, this im
mense platform for sharks and shoddies, for winners and losers,
for clerks and retainers, for the great and the small, the ob-

406 CAMP, MARCH and battle-field.
scure and the well-known; this place where characters of all
imaginable grades do congregate.
The occasion of our present hasty visit to Washington has
already been widely bruited. Owing to the concentration of
military strength around Petersburg, the Capital, with other
important localities, became almost depleted of veteran defend?
ers. All this being familiar to rebeldom, with their larders
and wardrobes sadly needing replenishing, they not only deter
mined upon, but actually made a sudden incursion into Mary
land. Possessing an admirable knack, not only of concealing
their real strength, but also of immensely magnifying their
actual forces, the rebels succeeded with a few thousand men,
seriously to threaten at the same time Washington and Balti
more, together with a host of inferior localities.
Governors and localized generals called in long, loud and
patriotic strains upon the citizen soldiery to rally for the rescue,
and drive the marauding hosts back across tbe Potomac — even
into that sacred river — provided the freebooters were not in a
hurry to be away. A rally in various localities seems to have
been made, but, as usual in such c.i^es, a little too late for the
emergency, not being ready until the threatened evil was con
summated and the danger over.
The powers that do conserve the interests of Washington no
doubt felt a little shaky about trusting the defences of the city
to a hastily extemporized army, even though ready at the call,
and large as demanded. Some veterans from the Potomac
Army must needs be summoned as a bulwark. It so happens
that when any sudden emergency arises — any raid to be headed,
any long and rapid marches to be made, or any reliable fighting
to be done — our 6th corps is almost invariably selected. So in
the late emergency. Although our corps was farthest from City

grant's campaign. 407
Point — miles south of Petersburg — the order came at dusk on
Saturday evening, July the 9th, to pack up at once and fall in.
But a few minutes' interval, and enveloped in clouds of dust
and darkness, we were wearily threading our way to City Point,
a distance of thirteen miles. By sunrise on Sabbath morning
we were ready to be crowded, packed, jammed and squeezed
into boats large and boats small, boats clean and boats foul,
boats airy and boats suffocating; thence away, away down the
classic James, over the beautiful Chesapeake, and up the broad
and lovely Potomac. Once more landed in Washington, and
quickly out among the forts in its vicinity. This was seemingly
effected none too soon; for a delay of twelve hours in the
coming of our first and second divisions would, to all human ap
pearance, have given Washington into . the possession of the
rebels. Owing to the unwonted labors, exposures and fatigues of our
late terrible campaign, a little season of rest seemed a necessity
for me on our arrival in Washington. This our surgeon kindly
ordered me to take. My second commission as chaplain having
then but two months to run, at the solicitation of Col. James
A. Ekin, of the Cavalry Bureau, the Secretary of War as
signed me to local chaplain duty at Gilsboro', D. C, where the
government has 1600 employees in connection with the im
mense depot at that place. This multitude of men had hitherto
been without any connected means or efforts for their moral and
spiritual improvement. Here a wide, most interesting and
profitable field of labor at once opened, which I occupied until
mustered out of service at the expiration of the three years'
service. Charge has lately been taken at Washington, D. C, of the
interesting and blessed work of the American Tract Society

408 . camp, march and battle-field.
(Boston,) in efforts to supply our soldiers, sailors and freedmen
with a suitable and adequate religious literature; in the mean
time also giving what attention is possible to the good work
commenced at Gilsboro'. A longing desire is frequently felt
for a renewal of the trying, difficult, yet deeply interesting
labours ofthe camp, on the march and battle-field, in behalf of
our brave, yet too often wicked soldiers, for whom the writer
continues to yearn with an unspeakable affection. Should the
war still lengthen itself, he may yet accept a chaplain's com
mission, and go once more in front, as no higher honor or
position could be desired.

INDEX.

An Age in a Few Days, 1.
A Real Devil, 4.
An Army is Truly a Great Machine,
12.
Advance to Martinsburgh, 14.
At Home, 27.
A Little Leaven Leaveneth the whole
Lump, 44.
A Year Ago, 151,
AU Quiet Along the James, 197,
Another Change of Base, 212.
All Quiet Along the Potomac, 232,
Across the Rappahannock, 278,
Another Repulse, 282.
Assault, 313.
Another Bloody Battle, 356,
A Puzzle, 112.
Adieu to Tennelly, 129.
Attainments of the Tear, 15L
Anniversary, 196.
A New City Built, 265.
A City Burnt, 267.
Another Battle-field, 275,
A Rabbit Tamed, 191.
A Toad Catching Flies, 205.
An Incident, 208—385.
A Cold Bath, 363.
A Visit from Friends, 369.
A Baptism of Blood, 310.
A New City, 374.
35

A Great Practical Fact, 56.
Absence, 86.
A Temporary Organization, 97.
A Photograph Establishment, 102.
At Warwick, 141.
Acquia Creek, 263.
Battle of Falling Waters, 15.
Book Distribution, 58.
Battle of Williamsburg, 155.
Battle of Fair Oaks, 173.
Battle-field of Fair Oaks, 181.
Battle of Malvern Hill, 187.
Battle of Salem Heights, 316.
Bible and Knapsack, 321,
Blackberries, 336.
Beastly, 338.
Benefits of Detention, 128.
Back in Tennelly, 130.
Back in Camp, 249.
Boyhood of Washington, 295.
Books, 297—332.
Burying the Dead, 400.
Christian Association, 292.
Chaplains, 6, 9, 198, 301.
Celebration of the Fourth, 16.
Christian Association in Camp, 96.
Camp Appliances, 100.
Church Tents, 105. 409

410

INDEX.

Camp Caucuses, 227.
Christmas, 28C.
Contraband Trade, 300.
CouncU of War, 319.
Cold Bathing, 328.
Camp Hospitals, 75.
Changes Necessary, 253-
Chaplains' Labors Needed, 283.
Close of Sixty-Two, 286.
Chaplains' Meetings, 303.
Caution Needed, 121, 347-
Council Adjourned, 320-
Church Building, 372-
Condition of Things in Front, 383.
Crossing the Chickahominy, 173.
Chaplains' Meeting,. 303, 347-
Diocesan Bishop, 67-
Deep Gloom, 104.
Drumming Out of Camp, 124-
Dragons' Teeth, 39.
Deserted Camp, 356.
Death of Lieutenaut Phillips, 83.
Dedication, 105-
Day after the Battle, 157-
Damages Repaired, 193.
Death of Dr. Whitsell, 201.-
Dear Old Tennelly, 226,
Death of Capt. Van Gorder, 245.
Division Worship, 334.
Drunkenness in the Army, 336.
Dilemma still, 112.
Dust, 398.
Deep Religious- Feeling, 310.
Effects of Excitement, 7-
Evening Worship, 137-
Entomology, 149-.
Effect of Wounds, 179..
Forty-Five Days' March, 323..
First Prayer-Meeting in 0am p-, 7.
Kn^yism in Camp, IS.

I Fortress Monroe, 137.
! Florence Nightingale, 183.
Flies, 208.
Flag Presentation, 345.
Farming, 261.
Field Mice, 360.
Failures, 302.
Field of Slaughter, 314.
Fierceness ofthe Struggle, 383.
Facility of Construction, 396.
Fairy Scenes, 312.
i Grand Military Review, 79, 307.
Grand Military Display, 12.
Granny and Little Ones, 22.
Go-vemmeut Consolidating, 40.
.Great Falls, Potomac, 69.
Gospel in Battle, 180.
I Growth in Grace, 203.
I Gordian Knot Cut, 246.
! Gettysburg — an Episode, 324.
. Grave of au Executed llebel, 359.
Gone again, 132.
Grand Living Panorama; 275.
General Hooker, 30S.
Gathering the Fragments, 316.
Help for Chaplains, 86.
Hard Saying, 126-
Harrison's Farm, 199.
Historic Region, 143.
Hurricane, 121.
Hermit's Den, 285.
Half Gone in a Year, 289.
Hospital Stewards, 75.
Health, 296-
How Obtained, 337.
Home Leagues, 402.
Imagination, 29.
Insane Asylum, 160.
Indian Reservation, 167.
Indian Drunk, 339.

INDEX.

411

Incident, 110.
Increasing Influence, 120.
Incident of Antietam Battle-field, 234.
In Dixie, 251.
Interesting, 326.
Impromptu Rifle-pits, 397.
In Camp, 241.
Jack a Prisoner, 321.
John Brown, 23.
Living on the March, 164.
Length of our Army, 215.
Ladies' Aid Societies, 76.
Little Things, 359.
Leaven in Washington, 117..
Literary Classes in Camp, 332.
Living on Corn, 388.
Labor in Field Hospital, 391.
Lawful to be taught by an Enemy, 402.
Magic City, 10,
Martinsburg, 21.
Military Life Lawful, 32.
Metaphysics, 111.
Meum and Tuum, 111.
Mount Vernon, 136.
Moral Influences, 161.
Marriage of Washington, 106.
Moral Quandary, 229.
More Sabbath-Breaking, 262.
Mode of Distribution, 298.
Monotony, 298.
Military Execution, 335.
Military Criticisms, 366.
"Man Proposeth, but God Dispo-
seth," 370.
Mode of Construction, 396.
Monday Morning the 7th, 142.
Mode of Marching, 325.
Mead's and Lee's Machines again in
Motion, 363.

New Things in Washington, 117.
Newport-News, 138.
Night March, 163.
Northern Benevolence, 202.
Novelty, 241.
New Army Movement, 353.
New Year's Salutation, 187, 290.
Not Boasting, 110.
Neology, 115.
No Detriment Feared, 252.
New Scenes, 311.
No rest, 315.
New Marches and Duties, 358.
Number and Extent of these Struc
tures, 395.
Our Good President, 46.
Our Capitol needs Cleansing, 72.
On the March, 141, 160.
Old Tomb-stones, 145.
On buard, 133.
Old Battle Fields, 352.
Our Pickets, 150.
On the Mareh, 161.
Our Adjutant, 238.
Our Coming Home, 242.
On to Culpeper, 343.
Old Father Time, 368.
Our Sabbath in Camp, 47.
Our Postal Arrangements, 1 03.
Other Uses for Tent, 109.
Organic Sin, 116,
Our Church Tent, 127.
Our Marcii, 154.
Pay Day in Camp, 61, 345.
Pilfering from Uncle Sam, 113.
Pittsburg Daily Chronicle, 126.
Present and Future, 291.
Picket Duty, 29S.
Prayer-Meeting under Fire of the
Enemy, 210.
Preparation for Battle, 364-

412

INDEX.

Potomac River, 136.
Pleasant Days in Camp, 52.
Primitive Church, 285.
Periloais- Situation, 318.
Prayer-Meeting in Camp, I091.
Present Race of Men, not Degene
rated', 373--
Property Abandoned! by the War,392-
Ploket Alarms, 2L
Parting- of Gen. Scott and M'Clel-
Ia-n, 54.
Printing Press, 102.
"Paul, Thou art Permitted to Speak
£6-1- Thyself." 302.
Red Tape, 237.
Rebel Raid to Chambersburg, 243-
Rebellion Unbroken, 288.
Reckoning Time, 287.
Return- to Camp, 85.
Remarks, ou Ministers or the Gospel
becoming Officers, 107.
Religious Element, 139-
Religfous' Service.. 184-
Rumors, 122.
Religious Influences in Camp, 211.
Reminiscences of Yo-rktown, 220.
Removal of Geu. M'Clellan, 250.
Religion in Camp, 53, 256-
Religion, 309.
Religious Condition, IT6.
Regimental Bible-Class, 333.
Rebel Pickets, 299-
Results,337. Revolting Sights, 384.
Religious Influences, 386.
Rebel Army Demoralized. 389.
Rifle- Pits, 394.
Rabbits, 361.
Skinner, 19.
Strange Sabbath-Keeping, 12.
Sabbath Desecration, 255.

Sick in Camp, 73.
Surgeons, 74.
Soldier's Burial, 60.
Smithsonian Institute, 119.
Singing in Camp, 152.
Spirit of the Rebel Army, 160.
Survey ofthe Peninsula, 216.
Stonewall Jackson, 224.
Sutlers, 228.
Scientific Chimney, 266.
Sleeping under Difficulties, 277.
Self-preservation, 280.
Solemnities of the Late Battle-Field,
284.
Satan Not Omnipotent, 342.
Satan Loose, 343.
Scenes in the Battle-Field, 350.
Sabbalh Rest, 165.
Seven Days' Fighting, 185.
Slander, 303.
Storming St. Mary's Heights, 314.
Sleeping Alligator, 123.
Sixth Army Corps, 311.
Starving Out the Rebels, 387.
Southern Women, 403.
The Religious Aspects, 33.
Touch Her Asy, Pat. 15.
The Patent Office, 34.
Ticks, 147. '
Tobacco, 148.
The Patent Office, and What about
it. 35.
That Bonnet, 248.
Tennelly Abandoned, 128.
Things iu Camp, 153.
The Health of the Army, 200.
The Army, 212.
The World Moves in a Circle, 217.
The Occasion of Our Coming. 242.
Two Famous Characters. 26S.
The Country. 259. 387.
Timber. 259.

INDEX.

418

Tired of Camp Life, 288.
The March, 324.
Thanksgiving Offering, 367.
The Condition of Health, 104.
Things Hopeful in Camp, 369.
Tuesday, March 18, 131.
The Old Year, 370.
The Isthmus We Occupy, 144.
The Devil as a Tactician, 255.
The Army of the Potomac at a New
Game, 349.
Uncle Abe, 194, 306.
Unknown Future, 287.

Vandalism of Rebels, 17.
Visit to Philadelphia, 51.
Visit of Friends, 84.
Various Singing Clubs, 102.
Visit of Uncle Abe and Mrs. Abe, 306.
Voluntary Surgeons, 177.
Washington Water Works, 71.
Winter Quarters, 90, 285.
Whiskey Rations, 169, 183.
What is Time? 291.
Washington's Birthday, 294.
Wearied with Slaughter, 317.
Weekly Letters, 88.
Winter Quarters Abandoned, 309.

35*