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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of Personal Recollections of a Cavalryman, by
+J. H. (James Harvey) Kidd
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Personal Recollections of a Cavalryman
+       With Custer's Michigan Cavalry Brigade in the Civil War
+
+Author: J. H. (James Harvey) Kidd
+
+Release Date: August 4, 2009 [EBook #29608]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK RECOLLECTIONS OF A CAVALRYMAN ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Suzanne Shell, Graeme Mackreth and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration: THE AUTHOR]
+
+
+
+
+PERSONAL RECOLLECTIONS
+
+OF A
+
+CAVALRYMAN
+
+WITH CUSTER'S MICHIGAN CAVALRY BRIGADE
+IN THE CIVIL WAR
+
+BY J.H. KIDD
+
+FORMERLY COLONEL SIXTH MICHIGAN CAVALRY AND BREVET
+
+BRIGADIER GENERAL OF VOLUNTEERS
+
+
+IONIA, MICHIGAN
+SENTINEL PRINTING COMPANY
+1908
+
+
+
+
+COPYRIGHTED 1908
+BY JAMES H. KIDD
+(All rights reserved)
+
+
+THE SENTINEL PRESS
+IONIA, MICHIGAN
+
+
+
+
+TO MY WIFE AND SON
+
+AND
+
+TO MY COMRADES OF THE MICHIGAN
+CAVALRY BRIGADE
+
+THIS VOLUME
+
+IS AFFECTIONATELY DEDICATED
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE
+
+
+In preparing this book it has not been the purpose of the author to
+write a complete historical sketch of the Michigan cavalry brigade. Such
+a history would require a volume as large for the record of each
+regiment; and, even then, it would fall short of doing justice to the
+patriotic services of that superb organization. The narrative contained
+in the following pages is a story of the personal recollections of one
+of the troopers who rode with Custer, and played a part--small it is
+true, but still a part--in the tragedy of the civil war. As such it is
+modestly put forth, with the hope that it may prove to be "an
+interesting story" to those who read it. The author also trusts that it
+may contribute something, albeit but a little, toward giving Custer's
+Michigan cavalrymen the place in the history of their country which they
+so richly earned on many fields.
+
+Doubtless many things have been omitted that ought to have been included
+and some things written in that it might have been better to leave out.
+These are matters of personal judgment and taste, and no man's judgment
+is infallible. The chapters have been written in intervals of leisure
+during a period of more than twenty years. The one on Cedar Creek
+appeared first in 1886; the Gettysburg campaign in 1889; Brandy Station,
+Kilpatrick's Richmond expedition, the Yellow Tavern campaign, Buckland
+Mills, Hanovertown and Haw's Shop, The Trevilian Raid and some other
+portions have been prepared during the current year--1908. While memory
+has been the principal guide, the strict historical truth has been
+sought and, when there appeared to be a reasonable doubt, the official
+records have been consulted, and the writings of others freely drawn
+upon to verify these "recollections."
+
+The Memoirs of P.H. Sheridan and H.B. McClellan's Campaigns of Stuart's
+Cavalry have been of especial value in this respect; the latter helping
+to give both sides of the picture, particularly in the accounts of the
+battles of Buckland Mills and Yellow Tavern. Wade Hampton's official
+reports were put to similar use in describing the battle of Trevilian
+Station.
+
+So far as mention is made of individual officers and men there is no
+pretense that the list is complete. Those whose names appear in the text
+were selected as types. Hundreds of others were equally deserving. The
+same remark applies to the portraits. These are representative faces.
+The list could be extended indefinitely.
+
+It was intended to include in an appendix a full roster of all the men
+who served in the Sixth Michigan cavalry and in the other regiments as
+well; but this would have made the book too bulky. By applying to the
+adjutant general of Michigan the books published by the state giving the
+record of every man who served in either of the regiments in the brigade
+can be obtained.
+
+The Roll of Honor--a list of all those who were killed in action, or who
+died of wounds received in action--is as complete as it was possible to
+make it from the official records. In a very few cases, men who were
+reported "missing in action," and of whom no further record could be
+found, were assumed to have belonged in the list, but these are not
+numerous enough to materially affect the totals.
+
+For the rest, the author cannot claim that he has done justice to either
+of these organizations, but he has made an honest effort to be fair and
+impartial, to tell the truth as he saw it, without prejudice. How well
+he has succeeded is not for him to say. "It is an interesting story,"
+said an officer who served with distinction in the Fifth Michigan
+cavalry. If that shall be the verdict of all the comrades who read it,
+the writer will be satisfied.
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS
+
+
+CHAPTER                                        PAGE
+
+I A NATIONAL AWAKENING                            1
+
+II AN EVENTFUL WINTER                            12
+
+III RECRUITING IN MICHIGAN                       23
+
+IV THE SUMMER OF 1862                            29
+
+V JOINING THE CAVALRY                            35
+
+VI IN THE REGIMENTAL RENDEZVOUS                  46
+
+VII THE DEPARTURE FOR WASHINGTON                 69
+
+VIII THE ARRIVAL IN WASHINGTON                   72
+
+IX THE STAY IN WASHINGTON                        79
+
+X FIELD SERVICE IN VIRGINIA                      87
+
+XI IN THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN                   113
+
+XII FROM GETTYSBURG TO FALLING WATERS           161
+
+XIII FROM FALLING WATERS TO BUCKLAND MILLS      191
+
+XIV THE BATTLE OF BUCKLAND MILLS                212
+
+XV WINTER QUARTERS IN STEVENSBURG               227
+
+XVI THE WILDERNESS CAMPAIGN                     261
+
+XVII THE YELLOW TAVERN CAMPAIGN                 278
+
+XVIII YELLOW TAVERN TO CHESTERFIELD STATION     307
+
+XIX HANOVERTOWN AND HAW'S SHOP                  318
+
+XX THE TREVILIAN RAID                           337
+
+XXI IN THE SHENANDOAH VALLEY                    373
+
+XXII THE BATTLE OF CEDAR CREEK                  403
+
+XXIII A MYSTERIOUS WITNESS                      434
+
+XXIV A MEETING WITH MOSBY                       444
+
+
+
+
+LIST OF MAPS
+
+
+1. ROUTE OF THE MICHIGAN CAVALRY BRIGADE IN
+THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN            _Opposite Page 113_
+
+2. BATTLEFIELD OF TREVILIAN STATION JUNE 11-12,
+1864                               _Opposite Page 337_
+
+3. BATTLEFIELD OF WINCHESTER SEPTEMBER 19,
+1864                               _Opposite Page 385_
+
+
+
+
+ILLUSTRATIONS
+
+
+PORTRAIT OF AUTHOR                                  _Frontispiece_
+
+AUSTIN BLAIR                                        _Opposite Page 18_
+
+THORNTON F. BRODHEAD                                        24
+
+JAMES H. KIDD (in 1864)                                     37
+
+JACOB O. PROBASCO                                           41
+
+GEORGE GRAY                                                 51
+
+RUSSELL A. ALGER (in 1862)                                  54
+
+GEORGE A. CUSTER (in 1863)                                 129
+
+GEORGE A. CUSTER (in 1864)                                 132
+
+DAVID MCMUTRIE GREGG                                       139
+
+WILLIAM D. MANN                                            148
+
+GEORGE G. BRIGGS                                           150
+
+LUTHER S. TROWBRIDGE                                       153
+
+CHARLES H. TOWN                                            156
+
+JUDSON KILPATRICK                                          165
+
+AARON CONE JEWETT                                          175
+
+PETER A. WEBER                                             187
+
+CHARLES E. STORRS                                          201
+
+GEORGE A. CUSTER (about 1872)                              211
+
+DON G. LOVELL                                              219
+
+WESLEY MERRITT                                             237
+
+LEVANT W. BARNHART AND WILLIAM HULL                        253
+
+A.C. LITCHFIELD                                            258
+
+ANGELO E. TOWER                                            291
+
+PHILIP H. SHERIDAN                                         297
+
+FITZHUGH LEE AND STAFF (in Cuba)                           313
+
+M.C. BUTLER                                                323
+
+THOMAS W. HILL                                             334
+
+WADE HAMPTON                                               345
+
+MANNING D. BIRGE                                           357
+
+SERGEANT AVERY                                             362
+
+MELVIN BREWER                                              395
+
+CHARLES R. LOWELL                                          411
+
+THOMAS C. DEVIN                                            428
+
+
+
+
+WITH CUSTER'S MICHIGAN CAVALRY BRIGADE
+
+
+PERSONAL RECOLLECTIONS
+
+OF A
+
+CAVALRYMAN
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I
+
+A NATIONAL AWAKENING
+
+
+The war cloud that burst upon the country in 1861 was no surprise to
+sagacious observers. For many years it had been visible, at times a mere
+speck in the sky, again growing larger and more angry in appearance. It
+would disappear, sanguine patriots hoped forever, only to come again,
+full of dire portent and evil menacings. All men who were not blind saw
+it, but most of them trusted, many believed, that it would pass over and
+do no harm. Some of those high in authority blindly pinned their faith
+to luck and shut their eyes to the peril. Danger signals were set, but
+the mariners who were trying to steer the Ship of State, let her drift,
+making slight, if any, efforts to put her up against the wind and keep
+her off the rocks.
+
+It is likely, however, that the Civil War was one of those things that
+had to be; that it was a means used by destiny to shape our ends; that
+it was needed to bring out those fine traits of National character
+which, up to that time, were not known to exist. Southern blood was hot
+and Northern blood was cold. Though citizens of one country, the people
+of the North and the people of the South were separated by a wide gulf
+in their interests and in their feelings. Doubt had been freely thrown
+upon the courage of the men who lived north of Mason and Dixon's line.
+The haughty slave owners and slave dealers affected to believe, many of
+them did believe, that one southern man could whip five "yankees." It
+took four years of war to teach them a different lesson.
+
+It was the old story of highland and lowland feud, of the white rose and
+the red rose, of roundhead and cavalier, of foemen worthy of each
+other's steel fighting to weld "discordant and belligerent elements"
+into a homogeneous whole.
+
+But war is not always an unmixed evil. Sometimes it is a positive good,
+and the Nation emerged from its great struggle more united than ever.
+The sections had learned to respect each other's prowess and to know
+each other's virtues. The cement that bound the union of states was no
+longer like wax to be melted by the fervent heat of political strifes.
+It had been tested and tempered in the fiery furnace of civil war. The
+history of that war often has been written. Much has been written that
+is not history. But whether fact or fiction, the story is read with
+undiminished interest as the years rush by.
+
+One story there is that has not been told, at least not all of it; nor
+will it be until the last of those who took part in that great drama
+shall have gone over to the silent majority. It is the story of the
+individual experiences of the men who stood in the ranks, or of the
+officers who held no high rank; who knew little of plans and strategy,
+but bore their part of the burden and obeyed orders. There was no army,
+no corps, no division, brigade, or regiment, scarcely a battery, troop,
+or company, which went through that struggle, or a soldier who served in
+the field "for three years or during the war," whose experiences did not
+differ from any other, whose history would not contain many features
+peculiar to itself or himself. Two regiments in the same command, two
+soldiers in the same regiment, might get entirely different impressions
+of the battle in which both participated. Two equally truthful accounts
+might vary greatly in their details. What one saw, another might not
+see, and each could judge correctly only of what he, himself, witnessed.
+This fact accounts, in part, for the many contradictions, which are not
+contradictions, in the "annals of the war." The witnesses did not occupy
+the same standpoint. They were looking at different parts of the same
+panorama. Oftentimes they are like the two knights who slew each other
+in a quarrel about the color of a shield. One said it was red, the other
+declared it was green. Both were right, for it was red on one side and
+green on the other.
+
+On such flimsy pretexts do men and nations wage war. Why then wonder if
+historians differ also? In the "Wilderness," each man's view was bounded
+by a very narrow horizon and few knew what was going on outside their
+range of vision. What was true of the "Wilderness" was true of nearly
+every battle fought between the union and confederate forces. No picture
+of a battle, whether it be painted in words or in colors, can bring into
+the perspective more than a glimpse of the actual field. No man could
+possibly have been stationed where he could see it all. Hence it came to
+pass that many a private soldier knew things which the corps commander
+did not know; and saw things which others did not see. The official
+reports, for the most part, furnish but a bare outline and are often
+misleading. The details may be put in by an infinite number of hands,
+and those features that seen separately appear incongruous, when blended
+will form a perfect picture. But it must be seen, like a panorama, in
+parts, for no single eye could take in, at once, all the details in a
+picture of a battle.
+
+In the winter of 1855-56, while engaged as assistant factotum in a
+general lumbering and mercantile business in the pine woods of Northern
+Michigan, one of my functions was that of assistant postmaster, which
+led to getting up a "club" for the New York Weekly Tribune, the premium
+for which was an extra copy for myself. The result was that in due time
+my mind was imbued with the principles of Horace Greeley.
+
+The boys who read the Tribune in the fifties were being unconsciously
+molded into the men, who, a few years later, rushed to the rescue of
+their country's flag. The seed sown by Horace Greeley, and others like
+him, brought forth a rich crop of loyalty, of devotion and
+self-sacrifice that was garnered in the war.
+
+In the latter part of the year 1860, the air was full of threatenings.
+The country was clearly on the verge of civil war, and the feeling
+almost as intense as it was in the following April, after the flash of
+Edmund Ruffin's gun had fired the Northern heart.
+
+In October, I came a freshman into the University of Michigan, in Ann
+Arbor. That noble institution was, even then, the pride of the Peninsula
+state. A superb corps of instructors, headed by Henry P. Tappan, the
+noblest Roman of them all, smoothed the pathway to learning which a
+thousand young men were trying to tread. These boys were full of life,
+vigor, ambition and energy. They were from various parts of the country,
+though but few were from the Southern States. The atmosphere of the
+place was wholesome, and calculated to develop a robust, courageous
+manhood. The students were led to study the best antique models, and to
+emulate the heroic traits of character in the great men of modern
+times. It may be said that nowhere in the land did the fires of
+patriotism burn with more fervent heat, during the eventful and exciting
+period that preceded by a few months the inauguration of Abraham
+Lincoln.
+
+The young men took a deep interest in the political campaign of that
+year, and watched with eager faces for every item of news that pertained
+to it.
+
+The nomination of Abraham Lincoln was a bitter disappointment to the
+young Republicans of Michigan. Seward was their idol and their ideal,
+and when the news came of his defeat in the Chicago convention, many men
+shed tears, who later learned to love the very ground on which the
+Illinois "Railsplitter" stood; and who today cherish his memory with the
+same reverential respect which they feel for that of Washington.
+
+During that memorable campaign, Seward spoke in Detroit and scores of
+students went from Ann Arbor to hear him. He did not impress one as a
+great orator. He was of slight frame, but of a noble and intellectual
+cast of countenance. His arguments were convincing, his language
+well-chosen, but he was somewhat lacking in the physical attributes so
+essential to perfect success as a public speaker. His features were very
+marked, with a big nose, a firm jaw, a lofty forehead, and a skin almost
+colorless. He had been the choice of Michigan for president and was
+received with the warmest demonstrations of respect and enthusiasm.
+Every word that fell from his lips was eagerly caught up by the great
+multitude. It was a proud day for him, and his heart must have been
+touched by the abounding evidences of affection.
+
+Seward was looked upon as the embodiment of sagacious statesmanship and
+political prescience, but how far he fell short of comprehending the
+real magnitude of the crisis then impending, was shown by his prediction
+that the war would last but ninety days. His famous dictum about the
+"irrepressible conflict" did him more credit.
+
+That same year, Salmon P. Chase also spoke in Michigan. There were
+giants in those days. Chase was not at all like Seward in his
+appearance. Tall and of commanding figure, he was a man of perfect
+physique. He had an expressive face and an excellent voice, well adapted
+to out-door speaking. In manner, he appeared somewhat pompous, and the
+impression he left on the mind of the listener was not so agreeable as
+that retained of the great New Yorker.
+
+At some time during the summer of 1860, Stephen A. Douglas passed
+through Michigan over the Central Railroad. His train stopped at all
+stations and hundreds of students flocked to see and hear him. He came
+off the car to a temporary platform, and for twenty minutes, that sea of
+faces gazing at him with rapt attention, talked with great rapidity, but
+with such earnestness and force as to enchain the minds of his hearers.
+His remarks were in part stereotyped, and he made much of his well-worn
+argument about the right of the territories to "regulate their own
+domestic institutions in their own way, subject only to the
+constitution." In manner, he was easy and graceful, in appearance,
+striking. He spoke with no apparent effort. Of massive frame, though
+short in stature, after the manner of General Sheridan, his head was
+large and set off by a luxuriant growth of hair that served to enhance
+its apparent size. His face was smooth, full and florid, the hue rather
+suggestive. His countenance and bearing indicated force, courage and
+tenacity of purpose. I was not surprised when he announced that he was
+on the side of the Union, and believe that, had he lived, he would have
+been, like Logan, a great soldier and a loyal supporter of Lincoln. He
+was a patriot of the purest type and one of the ablest men of his time.
+
+A significant incident of the winter of 1860-61, seems worth recalling.
+That period was one of the most intense excitement. What with the
+secession of the Southern States, the resignation of Senators and
+Members of Congress, and the vacillating course of the Buchanan
+administration, the outlook was gloomy in the extreme. There were in the
+University a number of students from the South, and they kept their
+trunks packed ready to leave at a moment's notice. Party feeling ran
+high, and the tension was painful. William Lloyd Garrison came to Ann
+Arbor to speak and could not get a hall, but finally succeeded in
+securing a building used for a school-house, in the lower part of the
+town. Here he was set upon by a lot of roughs, who interrupted him with
+cat-calls and hisses, and made demonstrations so threatening, that, to
+avoid bodily injury, he was compelled to make his exit through a window.
+The affair was laid to the students, and some of them were engaged in
+it, to their discredit, be it said. It was not safe for an
+"Abolitionist" to free his mind even in the "Athens" of Michigan.
+Harper's Weekly published an illustrative cut of the scene, and Ann
+Arbor achieved an unenviable notoriety.
+
+One day all hands went to the train to see the Prince of Wales, who was
+to pass through, on his way to Chicago. There was much curiosity to see
+the queen's son. He had been treated with distinguished consideration in
+the East and was going to take a look at the Western metropolis. There
+was a big crowd at the station, but his royal highness did not deign to
+notice us, much less to come out and make a speech, as Douglas did, who
+was a much greater man. But the "Little Giant" was neither a prince nor
+the son of a prince, though a "sovereign" in his own right, as is every
+American citizen. Through the open window, however, we had a glimpse of
+the scion of royalty, and saw a rather unpretentious looking young
+person, in the garb of a gentleman. The Duke of Newcastle stood on the
+platform, where he could be seen, and looked and acted much like an
+ordinary mortal. The boys agreed that he might make a very fair governor
+or congressman, if he were to turn Democrat and become a citizen of the
+land of the free and the home of the brave.
+
+The faculty in the University of Michigan, in 1860, was a brilliant one,
+including the names of many who have had a world-wide reputation as
+scholars and savants. Andrew D. White, since President of Cornell
+University and distinguished in the diplomatic service of his country,
+was professor of history. Henry P. Tappan, President of the University,
+or "Chancellor," as he was fond of being styled, after the manner of the
+Germans, was a magnificent specimen of manhood, intellectually and
+physically. Tall and majestic in appearance, he had a massive head and
+noble countenance, an intellect profound and brilliant. No wonder that
+he was worshiped, for he was god-like in form and in mind. Like many
+another great man, however, it was his fate to incur the enmity of
+certain others too narrow and mean to appreciate either his ability or
+his nobility of character. Being on the Board of Regents they had the
+power, and used it relentlessly, to drive him out of the seat of
+learning which he had done more than all others to build up and to
+honor. The University was his pride and glory and when he was thus
+smitten in the house of his friends he shook the dust from his feet and
+went away, never to return. It is a sad story. He died abroad, after
+having been for many years an exile from his native land. The feeling
+against these men was bitter in the extreme. The students hung one of
+them in effigy and marched in a body to the house of the other and
+assailed it with stones and missiles, meantime filling the air with
+execrations on his head. Both long since ceased to be remembered, even
+by name, but the memory of Tappan remains as one of the choicest
+traditions of the University, and it will be as enduring as the life of
+the institution itself.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II
+
+AN EVENTFUL WINTER
+
+
+It was an eventful winter that preceded the breaking out of the war
+between the states. The salient feature of the time, apart from the
+excitement, was the uncertainty. War seemed inevitable, yet the
+temporizing continued. The South went on seizing forts and plundering
+arsenals, terrorizing union sentiment, and threatening the federal
+government. The arming of troops proceeded without check, and hostile
+cannon were defiantly pointed at federal forts. Every friend of his
+country felt his cheek burn with shame, and longed for one day of Andrew
+Jackson to stifle the conspiracy while it was in its infancy. One by one
+the states went out, boldly proclaiming that they owed no allegiance to
+the government; but the leaders in the North clung to the delusion that
+the bridges were not all burned and that the erring ones might be coaxed
+or cajoled into returning. Concessions were offered, point after point
+was yielded, even to the verge of dishonor, in an idle attempt to patch
+up a peace that, from the nature of the case, could have been but
+temporary, if obtained on such terms. The people of the Northern States
+had set their faces resolutely against secession and, led by Lincoln,
+had crossed the Rubicon and taken up the gage of battle, which had been
+thrown down by the South.
+
+There was, then, no alternative but to fight. All other schemes were
+illusive. The supreme crisis of the Nation had come, and there was no
+other way than for the loyalty of the country to assert itself. The
+courage of the people had to be put to the proof, to see whether they
+were worthy of the heritage of freedom that had been earned by the blood
+of the fathers. For fifty years there had been no war in this country,
+except the affair with Mexico, so far away that distance lent
+enchantment to the view. The Northern people had not been bred to arms.
+The martial spirit was well-nigh extinct. Men knew little of military
+exercises, except such ideas as had been derived from the old militia
+system, that in many states was treated by the people rather with
+derision than respect, and in most of them was, in the impending
+emergency, a rather poor reliance for the national defense. Southerners,
+trained in the use of firearms and to the duello, did not attempt to
+conceal their contempt for their Northern brethren, and feigned to
+believe that north of Mason and Dixon's line lived a race of cowards.
+
+It did not take long to demonstrate that the descendants of the Green
+Mountain Boys and of the western pioneers were foes worthy of the mettle
+of the men who came from the states of Sumter and Marion, and "Light
+Horse Harry Lee." The blood of their heroic ancestry ran in their
+veins, and they were ready and willing to do or die when once convinced
+that their country was in deadly peril. The people, indeed, were ready
+long before their leaders were. Some of the ablest men the North had
+produced were awed by their fear of the South--not physical fear, for
+Webster and Douglas and Cass were incapable of such a thing--but fear
+that the weight of Southern political influence might be thrown against
+them. Many of the party leaders of the North had come to be known as
+"dough-faces," a term of reproach, referring to the supposed ease with
+which they might be kneaded into any form required for Southern use.
+They might have been styled very appropriately "wax-nosed politicians,"
+after the English custom, from the way they were nosed around by
+arrogant champions of the cause of slavery.
+
+Conciliation was tried, but every effort in that direction failed. A
+tempest of discussion arose over the "Crittenden compromise
+resolutions," the last overture for peace on the part of the North. It
+was generally conceded that it would be better to have war than to give
+up all for which the North had been contending for so many years. There
+was a feeling of profound indignation and disgust at Buchanan's message
+to Congress, in which he virtually conceded the right of secession and
+denied the power of the federal government to coerce a state. The course
+of General Cass in resigning from the Cabinet, rather than be a party to
+the feeble policy of the President, was applauded by all parties in
+Michigan, and the venerable statesman resumed his old-time place in the
+affections of the people of the Peninsula state. Governor Blair voiced
+the sentiments of Democrats and Republicans alike, when he practically
+tendered the whole power of the state to sustain the federal government
+in its determination to maintain the Union. All the utterances of the
+"War Governor" during that trying period breathed a spirit of devoted
+patriotism and lofty courage. The people were with him and long before
+the call to arms was sounded by President Lincoln, the "Wolverines" were
+ready to do their part in the coming struggle.
+
+In the evening of the day when Fort Sumter was fired upon, the students
+marched in a body to the house of Chancellor Tappan and called him out.
+His remarks were an exhortation to duty, an appeal to patriotism. He
+advised against haste, saying that the chances were that the country
+would be more in need of men in a year from that time than it was then.
+The University would put no hindrance in the way of such students as
+might feel impelled by a sense of duty to respond to the call for
+troops, but, on the contrary, would bid them God speed and watch their
+careers with pride and solicitude. The speech was calm but filled with
+the loftiest sentiments.
+
+Professor Andrew D. White was also visited and made a most memorable and
+significant speech. Standing on the porch of his house, in the presence
+of several hundred young men, he declared his opinion that one of the
+greatest wars of history was upon us, which he believed would not end in
+a day, but would be a protracted and bloody struggle. "I shall not be
+surprised," said he, "if it turns out to be another 'Thirty Years War,'
+and no prophet can predict what momentous consequences may result from
+it, before a Gustavus Adolphus shall arise to lead the armies of the
+Union to victory." He made a rousing union speech that was loudly
+cheered by the throng of young men who heard it. Dr. Tappan also
+addressed an immense mass meeting, and all things worked together, to
+arouse the entire people to a high pitch of enthusiastic ardor for the
+cause of the Union.
+
+At once, the town took on a military air. The state militia companies
+made haste to respond to the first call for three months' service and
+were assigned to the First regiment of Michigan infantry, stationed in
+Detroit. The ranks were filled to the maximum, in an incredibly short
+space of time. Indeed, there were more men than munitions for the
+service, and it was more difficult to equip the troops than to enlist
+them. The "position" of private in the ranks was much sought. As an
+illustration of this: On the afternoon before the First regiment of
+Michigan three-months men was to leave Detroit to march to Washington,
+my room-mate, William Channing Moore, a member of the Freshman class,
+came hurriedly into the room and, aglow with excitement, threw down his
+books, and extending his hand, said:
+
+"Good-by, old boy; there is a vacant position in the Adrian company. I
+have accepted it and am off for the war. I leave on the first train for
+Detroit and shall join the company tomorrow morning."
+
+"What is the position?" I asked.
+
+"High private in the rear rank," he laughingly replied.
+
+Moore was in the Bull Run battle, where he was shot through the arm and
+taken prisoner. He was exchanged and discharged and came back to his
+class in 1862. His sense of duty was not satisfied, however, for he
+enlisted again in the Eighteenth Michigan infantry, in which regiment he
+rose to be a captain. He survived the war and returned to civil life,
+only to be drowned several years later while fording a river in the
+South.
+
+"Billy" Moore, as he was affectionately called, was a young man of
+superb physique, an athlete, a fine student, and as innocent of guile as
+a child. He is mentioned here as a typical student volunteer, one of
+many, as the record of the Michigan University in the war amply proves.
+
+Two other University men, worthy to be named in the list with Moore,
+were Henry B. Landon and Allen A. Zacharias. Landon was graduated from
+the literary department in 1861. He immediately entered service as
+adjutant of the Seventh Michigan infantry--the regiment which led the
+advance of Burnside's army across the river in the battle of
+Fredericksburg. He was shot through the body in the battle of Fair Oaks,
+the bullet, it was said, passing through both lungs. This wound led to
+his discharge for disability. Landon returned to Ann Arbor and took a
+course in the medical department of the University, after which he
+reentered service as assistant surgeon of his old regiment. He survived
+the war, and became a physician and surgeon of repute, a pillar in the
+Episcopal church, and an excellent citizen. Landon was a prince of good
+fellows, always bubbling over with fun, drollery, and wit; and, withal,
+a fine vocalist, with a rich bass voice. In the winter of 1863-64, he
+often came to see me in my camp on the Rapidan, near Stevensburg,
+Virginia, and there was no man in the army whose visits were more
+welcome.
+
+[Illustration: AUSTIN BLAIR]
+
+Zacharias was graduated in 1860. He went to Mississippi and became
+principal of a military institute. Military schools were numerous in the
+South. It will be remembered that General W.T. Sherman was engaged in
+similar work in Louisiana. "Stonewall" Jackson was professor of military
+science in Virginia. The South had its full share of cadets in West
+Point, so that the opening of hostilities found the two sections by no
+means on an equality, in the matter of educated officers. Zacharias came
+north, and went out in the Seventh Michigan infantry, in which he was
+promoted to captain. He was mortally wounded in the battle of
+Antietam. When his body was recovered on the field, after the battle, a
+letter addressed to his father was found clasped in his hand. It read as
+follows:
+
+   "I am wounded, mortally, I think. The fight rages around me. I have
+   done my duty; this is my consolation. I hope to meet you all again. I
+   left not the line until nearly all had fallen and the colors gone. I
+   am weak. My arms are free, but below my chest all is numb. The enemy
+   is trotting over me. The numbness up to my heart. Good-by to all.
+   ALLAN."[1]
+
+The reference, in a previous paragraph, to General Cass, recalls the
+name of Norval E. Welch, a student of law, who was remarkable for his
+handsome face and figure. It is related of him that on an occasion when
+he was in Detroit, he happened to walk past the residence of General
+Cass, who was then, I believe, one of the United States senators from
+Michigan. The latter was so much impressed with the appearance of Welch,
+that he called him back and inquired his name, which was readily given.
+After a few moments' conversation, Cass asked Welch how he would like to
+be his private secretary, and, receiving a favorable response, tendered
+him the appointment on the spot. Welch served in that capacity until
+Cass went into the Cabinet of President Buchanan, when he came to Ann
+Arbor and took up the study of the law. When the Sixteenth Michigan
+infantry was organized, he was commissioned major, and was killed when
+leaping, sword in hand, over the confederate breastworks at Peebles's
+Farm, September 30, 1864. He had, in the meantime, been promoted to the
+colonelcy of his regiment.
+
+Morris B. Wells was a graduate of the law department. He went into the
+war as an officer of the same regiment with Welch, but was subsequently
+promoted to be lieutenant colonel of the Twenty-first Michigan infantry.
+He was killed at Chickamauga.
+
+No two men could be less alike in appearance than Norval Welch and
+Morris Wells. One was the embodiment of physical beauty, ruddy with
+health, overflowing with animal spirits, ready for a frolic, apt with
+the foils, dumb-bells or boxing gloves, but not particularly a student;
+the other, tall, rather slender, with an intellectual cast of
+countenance, frank and manly in his bearing, but somewhat reserved in
+manner and undemonstrative. Both were conspicuous for their gallantry,
+but the one impelled by that exuberant physical courage which is
+distinctive of the leonine type; the other an exemplar of that moral
+heroism which leads men to brave danger for a principle. They gave
+everything--even their lives--for their country.
+
+The list might be indefinitely extended, but more is not needed to
+illustrate the spirit of the college boys of 1861-62.
+
+But the students did not all go. Many remained then, only to go later.
+The prospect of danger, hardship, privation, was the least of the
+deterrent forces that held them back. To go meant much in most cases.
+It was to give up cherished plans and ambitions; to abandon their
+studies and turn aside from the paths that had been marked out for their
+future lives. Some had just entered that year upon the prescribed course
+of study; others were half way through; and others still, were soon to
+be graduated. It seemed hard to give it all up. But even these
+sacrifices were slight compared to those made by older men and heads of
+families.
+
+And there was no need to depopulate the University at once. The first
+call filled, those who were left behind began to prepare for whatever
+might come. The students organized into military companies. Hardee's
+tactics became the leading text-book. There were three companies or
+more. These formed a battalion and there was a major to command it. One
+company was styled "The Tappan Guard," after the venerable President,
+and it was made up of as fine a body of young men as ever formed in
+line. Most of them found their way into the federal army and held good
+positions. The captain was Isaac H. Elliott, of Illinois, the athlete,
+par excellence, of the University, a tall, handsome man and a senior.
+"Tom" Wier, a junior, was first lieutenant and the writer second
+lieutenant. Elliott went to the war as colonel of an Illinois regiment
+of infantry and was afterwards, for many years, adjutant general of that
+state. Wier went out in the Third Michigan cavalry and became its
+lieutenant colonel. At the close of the war he was given a commission
+as second lieutenant in the Seventh United States cavalry, Custer's
+regiment, was brevetted twice for gallantry, and after escaping massacre
+with his chief at Little Big Horn, died of disease in New York City in
+1876.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III
+
+RECRUITING IN MICHIGAN
+
+
+Ann Arbor was not the only town where the fires of patriotism were kept
+burning. It was one of many. "From one learn all." The state was one
+vast recruiting station. There was scarcely a town of importance which
+had not a company forming for some one or other of the various regiments
+that were organizing all through the year. Before the close of the year,
+aside from the three months men, three regiments of cavalry, eleven
+regiments of infantry, and five batteries were sent out, all for three
+years. There was little difficulty in getting recruits to fill these
+organizations to their maximum standard. No bounties were paid, no draft
+was resorted to. And, yet, the pay for enlisted men was but thirteen
+dollars a month. The calls of the President, after the first one for
+seventy-five thousand, were generally anticipated by the governor, and
+the troops would be in camp before they were called for, if not before
+they were needed. The personnel was excellent, and at first great pains
+were taken to select experienced and competent officers. Alpheus S.
+Williams, Orlando B. Wilcox, Israel B. Richardson, John C. Robinson,
+Orlando M. Poe, Thornton F. Brodhead, Gordon Granger, Phillip H.
+Sheridan and R.H.G. Minty were some of the names that appeared early in
+the history of Michigan in the war. Under their able leadership,
+hundreds of young men were instructed in the art of war and taught the
+principles of tactics, so that they were qualified to take responsible
+positions in the regiments that were put in the field the following
+year.
+
+I remember going to see a dress parade of the First Michigan cavalry at
+Detroit in August. It was formed on foot, horses not having yet been
+furnished. It was a fine body of men, and Colonel Thornton F. Brodhead
+impressed me greatly because of his tall, commanding figure and military
+bearing. He distinguished himself and was killed at Second Bull Run.
+
+Among the other officers was a spare, frail looking man named Town. He
+was at that time major and succeeded to the colonelcy after the death of
+Brodhead. He always sought death on the battle field, but never found
+it, and came home to die of consumption after the war was over. He was a
+modern Chevalier Bayard, and led his regiment at Gettysburg in the
+grandest cavalry charge of the war. I have no doubt that Meade's right
+was saved, July 3, 1863, by the superb courage of Charles H. Town and
+his brave followers. History is beginning to give the cavalry tardy
+justice for the part it played in that, one of the few great, decisive
+battles.
+
+[Illustration: THORNTON F. BRODHEAD]
+
+One of the most interested spectators of the parade was the venerable
+statesman and Democratic leader, Lewis Cass. He was then seventy-nine
+years of age, and few men had occupied a more conspicuous place in State
+and Nation. He was not without military experience, having been
+prominent in the frontier war of 1811, and in the war of 1812 he served
+as an aid to General Harrison. Soon thereafter, he was appointed
+brigadier general in the United States army, and was Secretary of War in
+the Cabinet of President Jackson. He also served as Territorial governor
+of Michigan, under the administrations of Madison, Monroe and John
+Quincy Adams. The fact of his resignation from the Cabinet of James
+Buchanan has already been referred to. I confess that I was, for the
+time being, more interested in that quiet man, standing there under the
+shadow of a tree, looking on at the parade, than in the tactical
+movements of the embryotic soldiers. There was, indeed, much about him
+to excite the curiosity and inflame the imagination of a youngster only
+just turned twenty-one.
+
+Obtaining a position near where he stood, I studied him closely. He was
+not an imposing figure, though of large frame, being fat and puffy, with
+a heavy look about the eyes, and a general appearance of senility. He
+wore a wig. The remarks he made have gone from my memory. They were not
+of such a character as to leave much of an impression, and consisted
+mostly of a sort of perfunctory exhortation to the troops to do their
+duty as patriots.
+
+It was with something of veneration that I looked at this man (standing
+on the verge of the grave he appeared to be), and, yet, he outlived many
+of the young men who stood before him in the bloom of youth. He did not
+seem to belong to the present so much as to the past. Fifty years before
+I was born, he had been a living witness of the inauguration of George
+Washington as first President of the United States. He had watched the
+growth of the American Union from the time of the adoption of the
+Constitution. He had been a contemporary of Jefferson, Madison, the
+Adamses, Burr and Hamilton. He had sate in the Cabinets of two different
+Presidents, at widely separated periods. He had represented the
+government in the diplomatic service abroad, and had served with
+distinction against the enemies of his country. He had seen the
+beginning of political parties in the United States and had been a
+prominent actor through all the changes. He was a youth of twelve when
+the Reign of Terror in France was in full blast, and thirty-three years
+of age when Napoleon Bonaparte was on the Island of St. Helena. He had
+witnessed the downfall of Pitt and the partition of Poland. He was,
+indeed, a part of the dead past. His work was done, and it seemed as if
+a portrait by one of the great masters had stepped down from the canvas
+to mingle with living persons.
+
+When the young men from the South, who were in the University felt
+compelled to return to their homes, to cast in their lots with their
+respective states, the students in a body escorted them to their
+trains, and bade them good-by with a sincere wish for good luck to
+attend them wherever they might go, even though it were into the
+confederate military service. The parting was rather with a feeling of
+melancholy regret that the fates cruelly made our paths diverge, than
+one of bitterness on account of their belief in the right of states to
+secede.
+
+There was a humorous, as well as a pathetic side to the war. Soldiers or
+students, young men were quick to see this. The penchant which boys have
+to trifle with subjects the most grave, gave rise to a funny incident in
+Ypsilanti (Michigan). There were two rival schools in that town--the
+"State Normal" and the "Union Seminary." The young men in these two
+flourishing institutions were never entirely at ease except when playing
+practical jokes upon each other. Soon after the secession of South
+Carolina, some of the Seminary boys conceived the idea of compelling the
+Normal people to show their colors. The first-named had put up the stars
+and stripes, a thing that the latter had neglected to do. One morning
+when the citizens of the town arose and cast their eyes toward the
+building dedicated to the education and training of teachers, they were
+astonished to see, flying from the lightning rod on the highest peak of
+the cupola, a flag of white, whereon was painted a Palmetto tree,
+beneath the shade of which was represented a rattle snake in act to
+strike. How it came there no one could conjecture, but there it was,
+floating impudently in the breeze, and how to get it down was the
+question.
+
+I believe that the authorities of the school never learned who it was
+that performed this daring feat, but it will be violating no confidence,
+at this late day, to say that the two heroes of this daring boyish
+escapade, which was at the time a nine-days' wonder, served in the war,
+one of them in what was known as the "Normal" company, and are now
+gray-haired veterans, marching serenely down the western slope, toward
+the sunset of their well-spent lives.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV
+
+THE SUMMER OF 1862
+
+
+The summer of 1862 was one of the darkest periods of the war. Though
+more than a year had elapsed since the beginning of hostilities, things
+were apparently going from bad to worse. There was visible nowhere a
+single ray of light to illumine the gloom that had settled down upon the
+land. All the brilliant promise of McClellan's campaign had come to
+naught, and the splendid army of Potomac veterans, after having come
+within sight of the spires of Richmond, was in full retreat to the
+James. The end seemed farther away than in the beginning. Grant's
+successful campaign against Forts Henry and Donelson had been succeeded
+by a condition of lethargy in all the Western armies. Notwithstanding
+the successes at Pittsburg Landing and at Corinth, and the death of
+Albert Sidney Johnston, who had been regarded as the ablest of all the
+officers of the old army who had taken service with the confederates,
+there had been a total absence of decisive results. McClellan had
+disappointed the hopes of the people; Grant was accused of blundering
+and of a fondness for drink; the great ability of Sherman was not fully
+recognized; and the country did not yet suspect that in Sheridan it had
+another Marlborough. Stonewall Jackson was in full tilt in Virginia, and
+Robert E. Lee had given evidence that he could easily overmatch any
+leader who might be pitted against him. With more of hope than of
+confidence, the eyes of the Nation were turned towards Halleck, Buell,
+and Pope.
+
+It was a dismal outlook. Union commanders were clamoring for more men
+and the Union cause was weak, because of the lack of confidence which
+Union generals had in each other. The patriotism of the volunteers,
+under these most trying and discouraging circumstances, was still the
+only reliance. Big bounties had not been offered and the draft had not
+yet been thought of, much less resorted to. War meetings were being held
+all over the state, literally in every school house, and recruiting went
+on vigorously. During the year 1862, Michigan equipped three regiments
+of cavalry, four batteries, two companies of sharpshooters, and fifteen
+regiments of infantry, which were mustered into the service of the
+United States.
+
+About the time that the college year closed, President Lincoln issued a
+call for 300,000 more. This call was dated July 2, 1862, the last
+previous one having been made on July 25, 1861--almost a year before.
+Under this call, Congressman Francis W. Kellogg, of the then Fourth
+congressional district of Michigan, came home from Washington with
+authority to raise two more regiments of cavalry. This authority was
+direct from Secretary Stanton, with whom, for some reason, Mr. Kellogg
+had much influence, and from whom he received favors such as were
+granted to but few. He looked like Mr. Stanton. Perhaps that fact may
+have accounted, in part at least, for the strong bond of friendship
+between him and the great War Secretary. Under similar authority he had
+been instrumental, during the year 1861, in putting into the field the
+Second and Third regiments of Michigan cavalry. They had made an
+excellent record and that, likewise, may have counted to his credit with
+the War Department. Be that as it may, Mr. Kellogg went at this work
+with his accustomed vigor and, in a very short space of time, the Sixth
+and Seventh regiments were ready for muster, though the latter did not
+leave the state until January, 1863. The Fourth and Fifth regiments had
+been recruited under a previous call.
+
+To show how little things often change the course of men's lives, an
+incident of personal experience is here related. The Fifth Michigan
+cavalry was recruited under the title of "Copeland's Mounted Riflemen."
+One of the most picturesque figures in America before the war was John
+C. Fremont, known as "The Pathfinder," whose "Narrative," in the
+fifties, was read by boys with the same avidity that they displayed in
+the perusal of the "Arabian Nights." Fremont had a regiment of "Mounted
+Riflemen" in the Mexican war, though it served in California, and the
+youthful imagination of those days idealized it into a corps d'elite,
+as it idealized the Mexican war veterans, Marion's men, or the Old
+Guard of Napoleon Bonaparte. The name had a certain fascination which
+entwined it around the memory, and when flaming posters appeared on the
+walls, announcing that Captain Gardner, of the village of Muir, was
+raising a company of "Mounted Riflemen" for Copeland's regiment, four
+young men, myself being one of them, hired a livery team and drove to
+that modest country four-corners to enlist. The "captain" handed us a
+telegram from Detroit saying that the regiment was full and his company
+could not be accepted. The boys drove back with heavy hearts at the lost
+opportunity. That is how it happened that I was not a private in the
+Fifth Michigan cavalry instead of a captain in the Sixth when I went
+out, for, in a few days from that time, Mr. Kellogg authorized me to
+raise a troop, a commission as captain being conditional on my being in
+camp with a minimum number of men, within fifteen days from the date of
+the appointment.
+
+The conditions were complied with. Two of the other boys became captains
+in the Sixth Michigan cavalry; the other went out as sergeant-major of
+the Twenty-first Michigan infantry and arose in good time to be a
+captain in his regiment.
+
+The government, during the earlier period of the war, was slow to
+recognize the importance of the cavalry arm of the service. It was
+expensive to maintain, and the policy of General Scott and his
+successors was to get along with as small a force of mounted men as
+possible, and these to be used mostly for escort duty and for orderlies
+around the various infantry headquarters. There was, consequently, in
+the cavalry very little of what is known as "esprit de corps." In the
+South, the opposite policy prevailed. At the First Bull Run, the very
+name of the "Black Horse cavalry" struck terror into the hearts of the
+Northern army, though it must be confessed that it was rather moral
+influence than physical force that the somewhat mythical horsemen
+exerted. Southern men were accustomed to the saddle, and were as a rule
+better riders than their Northern brethren. They took naturally to the
+mounted service, which was wisely fostered and encouraged by the
+Southern leaders, and, under the bold generalship of such riders as
+Ashby, Stuart, Hampton, Fitzhugh Lee, Rosser, Mosby, and others, the
+cavalry of the army of Northern Virginia surpassed that of the army of
+the Potomac both in numbers and in efficiency. McClellan says in his
+book that he often thought he made a mistake in not putting "Phil"
+Kearney in command of the cavalry. There is no doubt about it. Kearney
+had just the right sort of dash. If he had been given a corps of horse,
+with free rein, as Sheridan had it later on, "Phil" Kearney might have
+anticipated by at least two years the brilliant achievements of "Cavalry
+Phil" Sheridan. But the dashing one-armed hero was fated to be killed
+prematurely, and it was not until 1863, that Pleasanton, Buford, Gregg,
+Kilpatrick, and Custer began to make the Union troopers an important
+factor in the war; and Sheridan did not take command of the cavalry
+corps, to handle it as such, until the spring of 1864. Even then, as we
+shall see later, he had to quarrel with the commander of the army in
+order to compel recognition of its value as a tactical unit upon the
+field of battle. It was to Hooker, and not to Meade, that credit was due
+for bringing the cavalry into its proper relation to the work of the
+Northern army.
+
+Under the able leadership of such officers as those mentioned, the
+Federal cavalry took a leading part in the Gettysburg campaign and those
+which succeeded it, and was able to meet the flower of the South on
+equal terms and on its own ground. There will be no more honorable page
+in the history of our country than that on which will be written the
+record of the cavalry of the armies of the Potomac and of the
+Shenandoah.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V
+
+JOINING THE CAVALRY
+
+
+I finished my sophomore year in June, 1862, and returned to my home full
+of military spirit and determined to embrace the first favorable
+opportunity to enter the volunteer service. As second lieutenant of the
+"Tappan Guard," I had acquired a pretty thorough knowledge of Hardee's
+tactics and a familiarity with the "school of the soldier" and "school
+of the company" which proved very useful. Most of the summer was given
+up to drilling the officers and men in one of the companies of the
+Twenty-first Michigan infantry, which was in camp near the town, fitting
+for the field. The officers were new to the business, without training
+or experience, as volunteer officers were apt to be, and gladly availed
+themselves of my help, which was freely given. I was offered a
+commission as first lieutenant in that regiment, but my ambition was to
+go in the cavalry and it was soon to be gratified.
+
+Late in the month of August my father, coming home from Grand Rapids,
+met an old friend on the train who told him of Congressman Kellogg's
+arrival in that place and what his mission was. I wanted to be a second
+lieutenant and told my father that I preferred that to higher rank in
+the infantry. So, the next day, he went down to see the Congressman. His
+application for my appointment was heartily seconded by a number of
+influential men in the "Valley City," who knew nothing of me, but did it
+through their friendship for my father, whom they had known for many
+years as one of the most energetic and honorable business men in the
+Grand River valley. From 1848, he had been a familiar figure in
+lumbering circles and during that period there had been no year when,
+from May 1 till snow flew, his fleets of rafts of pine lumber were not
+running over the dam at Grand Rapids. With the business men along the
+river his relations had been close and friendly. They were, therefore,
+not reluctant to do him a favor. Among these I will mention but two,
+though there were many others who were equally zealous in the matter.
+
+Wilder D. Foster and Amos Rathbun were two of the best known men in the
+metropolis of western Michigan. Mr. Foster was a hardware merchant who
+had built up a splendid business from small beginnings in the pioneer
+days. He succeeded Thomas White Ferry in the United States Congress,
+after Mr. Ferry had been elected to the Senate. Mr. Rathbun, "Uncle
+Amos" he was called, was a capitalist who had much to do with the
+development of the gypsum or "plaster" industry in his section of the
+state. Their influence with Mr. Kellogg was potent, and my father
+obtained more than he asked for. He came home with a conditional
+appointment which ran thus:
+
+      "Headquarters 6th Regt. of Mich. Cavalry.
+      Grand Rapids, Aug. 28, 1862.
+
+   "To Captain James H. Kidd:
+
+   "You are hereby authorized to raise a company of mounted riflemen for
+   this regiment on condition that you raise them within fifteen days
+   from this date, and report with them at the rendezvous in this city.
+
+      "F.W. KELLOGG, Colonel Commanding."
+
+My surprise and gratification can better be imagined than described. To
+say that I was delighted would be putting it mildly.
+
+But the document with the Congressman's signature attached to it was not
+very much of itself. I was a captain in name only. There was no
+"company" and would not be unless a minimum of seventy-eight men were
+recruited, and at the end of fifteen days the appointment would expire
+by limitation. On the original document which has been carefully
+preserved appears the following endorsement in Mr. Kellogg's
+handwriting:
+
+   "The time is extended for raising this company until Tuesday of next
+   week."
+
+The fifteen days expired on Saturday and Mr. Kellogg kindly gave us four
+days extra time to get into camp.
+
+It was, however, no easy task to get the requisite number of men in the
+time allowed, after so many men had been recruited for other regiments.
+The territory which we could draw upon for volunteers had been very
+thoroughly canvassed, in an effort to fill the quota of the state under
+Lincoln's last call. But it was less difficult to raise men for cavalry
+than for infantry and I was hopeful of succeeding. I soon learned that
+three others had received appointments for commissions in the same
+troop--one first, one second, and one supernumerary second lieutenant.
+The same conditions were imposed upon them. Thus, there were four of us
+whose commissions hinged upon getting a minimum number of men into camp
+within fifteen days.
+
+The man designated for first lieutenant was Edward L. Craw. Some of
+Craw's friends thought he ought to be the captain, as he was a much
+older man than myself, though he had no knowledge of tactics and was in
+every sense a novice in military affairs. In a few days word came that
+Mr. Kellogg wanted to see me. He had been told that I was a "beardless
+boy" and he professed to want men for his captains. My friends advised
+me not to go--to be too busy recruiting, in fact--and I followed their
+advice. Had I gone, the "colonel" would, doubtless, have persuaded me to
+change with Craw, since I would have been more than satisfied to take
+second place, not having too high an opinion of my deserts.
+
+But there was no time to waste and recruiting was strenuously pushed.
+Kellogg must have been stuffed pretty full of prejudice, for I never
+came to town that I did not hear something about it. My friends seemed
+beset with misgivings. One of them called me into his private office and
+inquired if I could not manage to raise a beard somehow. I am not sure
+that he did not suggest a false mustache as a temporary expedient. I
+told him that it would have to be with a smooth face or not at all. It
+would be out of the question to make a decent show in a year's time and
+with careful nursing.
+
+Finally, "Uncle Amos" Rathbun heard of it and told Kellogg to give
+himself no concern about "the boy," that he would stand sponsor for him.
+"Uncle" Amos, though long ago gathered to his fathers, is alive yet in
+the memory of hundreds of Union soldiers whom he never failed to help as
+he had opportunity. And he did not wait for the opportunity to come to
+him. He sought it. He had a big heart and an open hand, and no man ever
+had a better friend. As for myself, I recall his name and memory with a
+heart full of gratitude for, from the moment I entered the service, he
+was always ready with the needed word of encouragement; prompt with
+proffers of aid; jealous of my good name; liberal with praise when
+praise was deserved; appreciative and watchful of my record till the
+end. If he had faults they were overshadowed by his kindness of heart
+and his unaffected virtues. When the record is made up, it will be found
+with "Uncle Amos" as it was with "Uncle Toby," when he uttered that
+famous and pardonable oath: "The accusing angel flew to heaven with the
+oath, blushed as he handed it in. The recording angel, as he wrote it
+down, dropped a tear upon it and blotted it out forever."
+
+I was the first man to enlist in the embryotic troop and take the oath.
+The first recruit was Angelo E. Tower, a life long friend, who entered
+service as first sergeant and left it as captain, passing through the
+intermediate grades. His name will receive further mention in the course
+of this narrative.
+
+The method of obtaining enlistments was to hold war meetings in
+schoolhouses. The recruiting officer accompanied by a good speaker would
+attend an evening meeting which had been duly advertised. The latter did
+the talking, the former was ready with blanks to obtain signatures and
+administer the oath. These meetings were generally well attended but
+sometimes it was difficult to induce anybody to volunteer. Once, two of
+us drove sixteen miles and after a fine, patriotic address of an hour,
+were about to return without results, when one stalwart young man arose
+and announced his willingness to "jine the cavalry." His name was
+Solomon Mangus and he proved to be a most excellent soldier.
+
+[Illustration: JACOB O. PROBASCO]
+
+On one of my trips, having halted at a wayside inn for lunch, I was
+accosted by a young man not more than seventeen or eighteen years of
+age, who said he had enlisted for my troop and, if found worthy, he
+would be much pleased if he could receive the appointment of "eighth
+corporal." I was amused at the modesty of the request, which was that
+he be placed on the lowest rung of the ladder of rank. The request did
+not appear unreasonable, and when the enrolment of troop "E" Sixth
+Michigan cavalry was completed, he appeared on the list as second
+corporal. From this rank he rose by successive steps to that of captain,
+winning his way by merit alone. For a time he served on the brigade
+staff, but, whether as corporal, sergeant, lieutenant, captain or staff
+officer, he acquitted himself with honor and had the confidence of those
+under whom he served as well as of those whom he commanded. His name was
+Jacob O. Probasco.
+
+In the western part of the county our meetings collided with those of
+"Captain" Pratt, who had an appointment similar to mine and for the same
+regiment. Pratt was a big man--a giant almost--full of zeal and
+enthusiasm. He was a Methodist preacher--a revivalist--and did his own
+exhorting. He was very fatherly and patronizing and declared that he
+would not interfere with my work; that he had plenty of men
+pledged--more than he needed--and would cheerfully aid in filling my
+quota, in addition to his own. His promise was taken with a grain of
+salt and, in the end, I mustered more men than he did, and he had none
+to spare. Both troops were accepted, however, and both of us received
+our commissions in due time, as the sequel will show.
+
+There was that about "Dominie" Pratt that impressed people with the idea
+that he would be a great "fighting parson." He was so big, burly and
+bearded, fierce looking as a dragoon, and with an air of intense
+earnestness. He was very pious and used to hold prayer meetings in his
+tent, conducted after the manner of the services at a camp meeting. His
+confidence in himself, real or assumed, was unlimited. Several of the
+officers who had seen no service in the field, were talking it over one
+evening in the colonel's tent, and conjecturing how they would feel and
+act when under fire. Most of them were in anything but a boastful mood,
+contenting themselves with modestly expressing the belief that when the
+ordeal came and they were put to the proof, they would stand up to the
+work and do their duty like officers and gentlemen. Captain Pratt said
+little, but, as we were walking away after the conference had broken up,
+he placed his arm around my waist, in his favorite, affectionate way (he
+had known me from boyhood) and in his most impressive pulpit manner,
+said: "Jimmie," (he always addressed me thus) "Jimmie, let others do as
+they may, I want to say to you, that the men who follow me on the field
+of battle go where death reigneth." As he neared the climax of this dire
+prediction, he unwound the arm with which he held me to his side and,
+raising it, emphasized his words with a fierce gesture. I confess that I
+drew back a step, and felt a certain sensation of awe and respect, as I
+beheld in him the incarnation of courage and carnage.
+
+It may or may not be pertinent to mention that the intrepid captain
+never led his troop to slaughter; never welcomed the enemy "with bloody
+hands to hospitable graves." On account of ill health, he was compelled
+to resign in February, 1863, before the regiment marched from Washington
+into Virginia. I have always regretted that necessity, because,
+notwithstanding his apparent bravado, the captain was really a brave
+man, and there was such a fine opportunity in the "Old Dominion," in
+those days, for one who really hungered for gore to distinguish himself.
+It would have been a glorious sight to see the gigantic captain, full of
+the fiery spirit that animated Peter the Hermit when exhorting his
+followers to the rescue of the holy sepulcher, charging gallantly at the
+head of his men into the place "where death reigneth." There were
+several of those places in the southern country.
+
+At the period of the civil war the word "company" was applied
+indiscriminately to cavalry or infantry. The unit of formation was the
+company. At the present time there is a distinction. A captain of
+cavalry commands a "troop." A captain of infantry commands a "company."
+A troop of cavalry corresponds to a company of infantry. For the sake of
+convenience and clearness this classification will henceforth be
+observed in the course of this narrative.
+
+The troop, then, the raising of which has been thus briefly sketched,
+was ready on Tuesday, September 16, 1862, to begin its career as a
+military unit in the great army of union volunteers. It is known in the
+history of the civil war as Troop E, Sixth Michigan cavalry
+(volunteers). It was originally constituted as follows:
+
+   James H. Kidd, captain; Edward L. Craw, first lieutenant; Franklin P.
+   Nichols, second lieutenant; Ambrose L. Soule, supernumerary second
+   lieutenant.
+
+   Angelo E. Tower, first sergeant; James L. Manning, quartermaster
+   sergeant; Amos T. Ayers, commissary sergeant; William H. Robinson,
+   William Willett, Schuyler C. Triphagen, Marvin E. Avery, Solon H.
+   Finney, sergeants.
+
+   Amos W. Stevens, Jacob O. Probasco, Isaac R. Hart, Benjamin B.
+   Tucker, George I. Henry, David Welch, Marvin A. Filkins, James W.
+   Brown, corporals.
+
+   Simon E. Allen, William Almy, Eber Blanchard, Heman S. Brown, Shuman
+   Belding, Lester A. Berry, George Bennett, George Brown, John
+   Cryderman, Edward H. Cook, William B. Clark, James H. Corwin, Eugene
+   C. Croff, William W. Croff, Randall S. Compton, Manley Conkrite,
+   William H. Compton, Seth Carey, Marion Case, Amaron Decker, Daniel
+   Draper, Rinehart Dikeman, Thomas Dickinson, Orrin W. Daniels,
+   Matthias Easter, Francis N. Friend, Ira Green, James Gray, George I.
+   Goodale, Eli Halladay, Luther Hart, Elias Hogle, George E. Halladay,
+   Robert Hempstead, Edmond R. Hallock, Henry M. Harrison, Warren
+   Hopkins, John J. Hammel, Miles E. Hutchinson, Luther Johnson,
+   Searight C. Koutz, Louis Kepfort, Archibald Lamberton, Martin Lerg,
+   David Minthorn, Solomon Mangus, Andrew J. Miller, Jedediah D. Osborn,
+   Timothy J. Mosher, Gershom W. Mattoon, Moses C. Nestell, George W.
+   Marchant, Edwin Olds, Walter E. Pratt, Albert M. Parker, George W.
+   Rall, Frederick Smith, Jesse Stewart, Josiah R. Stevens, David S.
+   Starks, Orlando V.R. Showerman, David Stowell, James O. Sliter,
+   Jonathan C. Smith, Meverick Smith, Samuel J. Smith, Josiah Thompson,
+   William Toynton, John Tunks, Mortimer Trim, Albert Truax, Oliver L.
+   VanTassel, Byron A. Vosburg, John VanWagoner, Sidney VanWagoner,
+   Erastus J. Wall, Charles Wyman, Harvey C. Wilder, Israel Wall, Lewis
+   H. Yeoman.[2]
+
+The troop that thus started on its career was a typical organization for
+that time--that is it had the characteristics common to the volunteers
+of the early period of the civil war. When mustered into the service it
+numbered one hundred and five officers and men. Though for the most part
+older than the men who went out later, the average age was but
+twenty-eight years. Nineteen were twenty or under; twenty-nine were
+thirty or under; eighteen were thirty-one or under. Only nine were over
+forty. For personnel and patriotism, for fortitude and endurance, they
+were never excelled. But they were not professional soldiers. At first,
+they were not soldiers at all. They were farmers, mechanics, merchants,
+laboring men, students, who enlisted from love of country rather than
+from love of arms, and were absolutely ignorant of any knowledge of the
+technical part of a soldier's "business." The militia had been mostly
+absorbed by the first calls in 1861 and the men of 1862 came from the
+plow, the shop, the schoolroom, the counting room or the office. With
+few exceptions, they were not accustomed to the use of arms and had
+everything to learn. The officers of this particular organization had no
+advantage over the others in this respect, for, save myself, not one of
+them knew even the rudiments of tactics. Indeed, at the date of muster,
+there were but three officers in the entire regiment who had seen
+service. These were Lieutenant Colonel Russell A. Alger, Captain Peter
+A. Weber and Lieutenant Don G. Lovell.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI
+
+IN THE REGIMENTAL RENDEZVOUS
+
+
+It was a raw, rainy day when we took up the march from the railroad
+station to the ground whereon had been established the rendezvous for
+the regiment. It was a motley collection of soldiers, considering the
+record they were to make during the coming years of active service in
+the field. All were in citizens' clothes, and equipped with neither
+uniforms nor arms. Assembled in haste for the journey, there had been no
+opportunity even to form in line or learn to keep step. No two of them
+were dressed alike. They were hungry and wet. Few had overcoats, none
+ponchos or blankets. Quarters were provided for the night in a vacant
+store where the men were sheltered from the rain, but had to sleep on
+the bare floor without cots or comforts of any kind. But,
+notwithstanding the gloomy conditions that attended this introduction to
+the volunteer service, they, in the main, kept up their good spirits,
+though some were visibly depressed and looked as if they were sorry they
+had come. In less than a year from that time, they had learned to endure
+a hundred-fold greater deprivations and hardships with equal minds.
+
+The next morning, breakfast was served in an improvised dining-hall on
+the bank of the river which ran hard by. Then there was another march to
+"camp," the captain reported for duty to the "commandant," and a sort of
+routine of military exercises was entered upon. The officer in command
+and his adjutant were also new to the business and haste was made very
+slowly while they felt their way along. After a few days the camp was
+removed to better ground, which was high and dry, and overlooked the
+town. Here the real work of equipping, organizing and training began.
+
+There were twelve troops, each composed of about one hundred officers
+and men. The officers were quartered in "wall" tents, but there were not
+tents enough, so wooden barracks were built for the men. A hospital was
+established in a house near by. This was pretty well patronized, at
+first, the exposure making many men ill. There was a guardhouse, also,
+but not much use for it. A large portion of each day was given up to
+drill. The rivalry among the captains was spirited, for they had been
+called together soon after reporting for duty, and informed that they
+would be given their respective places in line, by letter, from "A" to
+"M," consecutively, according to proficiency in drill upon a certain
+date, the two highest places barred, the assignments having been made
+previously. As the relative rank of these officers depended upon the
+letter given, it may be imagined that they spared no effort of which
+they were severally capable. They became immediate students, both in
+theory and in practice, of Philip St. George Cooke's cavalry tactics
+wherein the formation in single rank was prescribed.
+
+Soon after going into this camp, uniforms were issued and horses also.
+The uniform for the enlisted men, at that time, consisted of a cavalry
+jacket, reinforced trousers, forage cap, and boots which came to the
+knee. Arms, except sabers, were not supplied until after leaving the
+state. The horses were purchased in Michigan, and great care was taken
+through a system of thorough inspection to see that they were sound and
+suitable for the mounted service. In the end, the regiment had a most
+excellent mount, both the horses and horse equipments being of the best
+that could be procured. The horses were sorted according to color, the
+intention being that each unit should have but one color, as near as
+practicable. Thus, as I remember it, troop "A" had bays; "B" browns; "C"
+greys; "D" blacks; and so on. This arrangement did not last long. A few
+months' service sufficed to do away with it and horses thereafter were
+issued indiscriminately. The effect, however, so long as the distinction
+could be kept up, was fine. It was a grand sight when the twelve hundred
+horses were in line, formed for parade or drill in single rank, each
+troop distinguishable from the others by the color of the horses.
+
+When the Fifth Michigan cavalry was mustered into the United States
+service at Detroit there was one supernumerary troop. This was
+transferred to the Sixth Michigan, then forming in Grand Rapids, and
+given the letter "A" without competition. This entitled it to the
+position on the right flank in battalion formations, and made its
+commanding officer the senior captain of the regiment. The officers
+were, captain, Henry E. Thompson; first lieutenant, Manning D. Birge;
+second lieutenant, Stephen H. Ballard; supernumerary second lieutenant,
+Joel S. Sheldon. Before they left the service, Thompson was lieutenant
+colonel; Birge, major; Ballard, captain; and Sheldon, regimental
+commissary. This troop attracted a great deal of attention from the time
+of its arrival in camp for, having been organized some two or three
+months, it was fairly well drilled and disciplined, fully uniformed, and
+the officers were as gay as gaudy dress and feathers could make them.
+They wore black hats with ostrich plumes, and presented a very showy as
+well as a soldierly appearance. The plumes, like the color arrangement
+of horses, did not last long. Indeed, few if any of the officers outside
+of "A" troop, bought them, though they were a part of the uniform
+prescribed in the books. Two officers who came to the regiment from the
+Second Michigan cavalry, and who had had over a year's experience in the
+field, gave the cue that feathers were not a necessary part of the
+equipment for real service and served no useful purpose.
+
+One of these two officers I met on the day of my arrival in the
+temporary camp. It was that wet, drizzly day, when I was sitting in the
+tent of the "commandant" awaiting orders. With a brisk step and a
+military air a young man of about my own age entered, whose appearance
+and manner were prepossessing. He looked younger than his years, was not
+large, but had a well-knit, compact frame of medium height. He was alert
+in look and movement, his face was ruddy with health, his eyes bright
+and piercing, his head crowned with a thick growth of brown hair cut
+rather short. He wore a forage cap, a gum coat over his uniform, top
+boots, and appeared every inch the soldier. He saluted and gave the
+colonel a hearty greeting and was introduced to me as Captain Weber.
+
+Peter A. Weber was clerking in a store when the war broke out and
+entered service as a corporal in the Third Michigan infantry. When the
+Second Michigan cavalry was organized he was commissioned battalion
+adjutant and had been called home to take a captaincy in the Sixth. By
+reason of his experience, he was given the second place, "B". Weber was
+a rare and natural soldier, the embodiment of courage and, had not death
+interrupted his career, must have come near the head of the list of
+cavalry officers. The battle in which he distinguished himself and lost
+his life will be the theme of a future chapter.
+
+[Illustration: GEORGE GRAY]
+
+In troop "F", commanded by Captain William Hyser, was Second Lieutenant
+Don G. Lovell, one of the three veteran officers. He went out as
+corporal in the Third Michigan infantry, was wounded at Fair Oaks,
+and again at Trevillian Station while serving in the cavalry. He was
+one of the bravest of the brave.
+
+Along in September, before the date of muster, I received a letter from
+a classmate in Ann Arbor asking if there was an opening for him to
+enlist. I wrote him to come and, soon after joining, he was appointed
+troop commissary sergeant. At that time, Levant W. Barnhart was but
+nineteen years of age and a boy of remarkable gifts. He was one of the
+prize takers in scholarship when he entered the University in 1860, in
+the class of 1864. His rise in the volunteers was rapid. Passing
+successively through the grades of first sergeant, second and first
+lieutenant, he in 1863 was detailed as acting adjutant. While serving in
+this position he attracted the notice of General Custer who secured his
+appointment by the War Department as assistant adjutant general with the
+rank of captain. He served on the staff of General Custer till the war
+closed--succeeding Jacob L. Greene. For one of his age his record as
+scholar and soldier was of exceptional brilliancy. He was barely
+twenty-one when he went on Custer's staff, who was himself not much more
+than a boy in years. (Custer was but twenty-six when Lee surrendered at
+Appomattox.)
+
+George Gray, "lieutenant colonel commanding," was a lawyer of brilliant
+parts, a good type of the witty, educated Irishman, a leader at the bar
+of Western Michigan who had no equal before a jury. He had much
+reputation as an after-dinner speaker, and his polished sentences and
+keen sallies of wit were greatly enjoyed on occasions where such gifts
+were in request. Though generally one of the most suave of men, he had
+an irascible temper at times. The flavor of his wit was tart and
+sometimes not altogether palatable to those who had to take it. In
+discipline he was something of a martinet. He established a school of
+instruction in his tent, where the officers assembled nightly to recite
+tactics, and no mercy was shown the luckless one who failed in his
+"lessons." Many a young fellow went away from the "school" smarting
+under the irony of the impatient colonel. Some of his remarks had a
+piquant humor, others were characterized by the most biting sarcasm.
+
+"Mr. ----," said he one morning when the officers were grouped in front
+of his tent in response to 'officers' call,' "Mr. ----, have you gloves,
+sir?"
+
+"Yes, sir," replied the lieutenant, who had been standing with hands in
+his trousers pockets.
+
+"Well, then, you had better put them on and save your pockets."
+
+It is needless to say that the young officer thereafter stood in
+position of the soldier when in presence of his commander.
+
+Nothing was so offensive to Colonel Gray as untidy dress or shabby
+habiliments on a member of the guard detail. One morning in making his
+usual inspection, he came upon a soldier who was particularly slovenly.
+Ordering the man to step out of the ranks, the colonel surveyed him
+from head to foot, then, spurning him with his foot, remarked: "That is
+a--pretty looking thing for a soldier; go to your quarters, sir."
+
+Once or twice I felt the sting of his tongue, myself, but on the whole
+he was very kind and courteous, and we managed to get along together
+very well.
+
+For a time it was supposed that the colonelcy would go to an army
+officer, and it may be recalled as an interesting fact that George A.
+Custer was at that very time a lieutenant on McClellan's staff and would
+have jumped at the chance to be colonel of a Michigan cavalry regiment.
+As has been shown, Philip H. Sheridan, Gordon Granger, O.B. Wilcox, I.B.
+Richardson, and other regulars, began their careers as officers in the
+volunteer service by accepting commissions from Governor Blair. Custer
+was never a colonel. He was advanced from captain in the Fifth United
+States cavalry to full brigadier general of volunteers and his first
+command was four Michigan regiments, constituting what was known as
+"Custer's Michigan cavalry brigade"--the only cavalry brigade in the
+service made up entirely of regiments from a single state. A petition
+was circulated among the officers, asking the governor to appoint Gray
+colonel. We all signed it, though the feeling was general that it would
+be better for him to retain the second place and have an officer of the
+army, or at least one who had seen service, for our commander. The
+petition was forwarded, however, and Gray was commissioned colonel.
+
+Soon thereafter, it was announced, greatly to the satisfaction of all
+concerned, that the vacancy caused by Gray's promotion was to be filled
+by an officer of experience. Major Russell A. Alger of the Second
+Michigan cavalry, who had seen much service in the southwest, was made
+lieutenant colonel. Major Alger had gone out in 1861 as captain of troop
+"C", of the Second Michigan and had earned his majority fighting under
+Granger and Sheridan. In April, 1861, he was engaged in the lumbering
+business in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to which place he had removed from
+Cleveland, Ohio. He had been admitted to the bar in Cleveland but, even
+at that early day, his tastes and inclinations led him in the direction
+of business pursuits. He, therefore, came to Grand river and embarked in
+lumbering when but just past his majority and unmarried. The panic of
+1857 depressed the lumber industry, in common with all other kinds of
+business, and the young Buckeye met with financial reverses, as did
+nearly everybody in those days, though it is agreed that he showed
+indications of the dash and self-reliance that were marked features of
+his subsequent career both in the army and in civil life. Doubtless, had
+not the war come on he would have achieved success in his business
+ventures then, as he did afterwards.
+
+[Illustration: RUSSELL A. ALGER (IN 1862)]
+
+When Lieutenant Colonel Alger reported to Colonel Gray for duty he
+appeared the ideal soldier. Tall, erect, handsome, he was an expert and
+graceful horseman. He rode a superb and spirited bay charger which
+took fences and ditches like a deer. Though not foppish, he was
+scrupulous to a degree about his dress. His clothes fitted, and not a
+speck of dust could be found on his person, his horse, or his
+equipments. The details of drill fell largely to him--Colonel Gray
+attending to the general executive management. As a battalion commander
+Colonel Alger had few equals and no superiors. He was always cool and
+self-poised, and his clear, resonant voice had a peculiar, agreeable
+quality. Twelve hundred horsemen formed in single rank make a long line
+but, long as it was, every man could hear distinctly the commands that
+were given by him.
+
+Weber's voice had the same penetrating and musical quality that made it
+easy to hear him when he was making no apparent effort to be heard. At
+that time it was the custom to give the commands with the voice and not
+by bugle calls.
+
+Under such competent handling the regiment soon became a very well
+drilled organization. The evolutions were at first on foot, then on
+horseback, and long before the time when it was ready to depart for the
+front, the officers and men had attained the utmost familiarity with the
+movements necessary to maneuver a regiment on the field.
+
+On Sundays it was customary to hold religious services in the camp, and
+many hundreds of the "beauty and the chivalry" of the town came to see
+the soldiers and hear the chaplain preach. The regiment would be formed
+in a hollow square, arms and brasses shining, clothes brushed, and
+boots polished. The chaplain was a good speaker and his sermons were
+always well worth listening to.
+
+Chaplain Stephen S.N. Greeley was a unique character. Before enlisting
+he had been pastor of the leading Congregational church of the city. He
+was a powerful pulpit orator, a kind-hearted, simple-minded gentleman of
+the old school, not at all fitted for the hardships and exposure that he
+had to undergo while following the fortunes of General Custer's troopers
+in Virginia. Army life was too much for him to endure, and it was as
+much as he could do to look after his own physical well-being, and the
+spiritual condition of his flock was apt to be sadly neglected. He
+stayed with the regiment till the end but, in the field he was more like
+a child than a seasoned soldier and needed the watchful care of all his
+friends to keep him from perishing with hunger, fatigue, and exposure. I
+always forgot my own discomforts in commiseration of those of the honest
+chaplain. When in camp, and the weather suitable, I always endeavored to
+assemble the command for Sunday services, so pleased was he to talk to
+his "boys." I believe every surviving Sixth Michigan cavalryman has in
+his heart a warm corner for Chaplain Greeley who returned to Gilmartin,
+New Hampshire, the place where he began his ministerial work, and died
+there many years ago.
+
+While noting in this cursory way the personnel of the regiment it may
+be proper to mention the other members of the field and staff.
+
+Cavalry regiments were divided into three battalions, each consisting of
+four troops and commanded by a major. Two troops were denominated a
+squadron. Thus there were two troops in a squadron, two squadron in a
+battalion, three battalions in a regiment. The first major was Thaddeus
+Foote, a Grand Rapids lawyer. He served with the Sixth about a year and
+was then promoted to be colonel of the Tenth Michigan cavalry. Under
+President Grant he held the position of pension agent for Western
+Michigan. Elijah D. Waters commanded the Second battalion. He resigned
+for disability and died of consumption in 1866. He did not serve in the
+field at all. Simeon B. Brown, of the Third battalion was called to the
+command of the Eleventh Michigan cavalry, in 1863. The Tenth and
+Eleventh were raised by Congressman Kellogg in that year in the same
+manner in which he had organized the Second and Third in 1861, and the
+Sixth and Seventh in 1862.
+
+Speaking of Major Waters, recalls how little things sometimes lead on to
+fortune. After leaving the service he and his brother started a "box
+factory," on the canal in Grand Rapids. In the winter of 1865-66 he took
+me over to see it. It was a small affair run by water power. The "boxes"
+which they manufactured were measures of the old-fashioned kind like the
+half-bushel and peck measures made of wood fifty years ago. They were of
+all sizes from a half-bushel down to a quart and used for "dry
+measure." Before the top rim was added and the bottom put in it was
+customary to pile the cylindrical shells one on top of another in the
+shop. Looking at these piles one day Waters saw that three of them,
+properly hooped, would make a barrel. Why not put hoops on and make them
+into barrels? No sooner said than done. A patent was secured, a stock
+company organized and the sequel proved that there were "millions in
+it." The major did not live to enjoy the fruits of his invention but it
+made of his brother and partner a millionaire. The latter is today one
+of the wealthiest men in Michigan--all from that lucky beginning.
+
+The first adjutant of the regiment was Lyman E. Patten, who resigned to
+become a sutler and was succeeded by Hiram F. Hale who, in turn, left
+the cavalry to become a paymaster.
+
+Sutlers were an unnecessary evil; at least, so it seems to me. They were
+in some cases evil personified. Many of them went into the business
+solely "for the money there was in it," and did not hesitate to trade on
+the necessities of the "boys in blue," so that as a rule there was no
+love lost, and enlisted men would raid a sutler with as little
+compunction as the sutler would practice extortion on them. The sutler's
+tent was too often the army saloon where "S.T.--1860--X bitters" and
+kindred drinks were sold at inflated prices. There were exceptions to
+the rule, however, and Mr. Patten was one of these. The whole sutler
+business was a mistake. The government should have arranged for an
+issue, or sale at cost through the commissary and quartermaster
+departments, of such articles as were not regularly furnished and were
+needed by the officers and men. Sutlers sold a thousand and one things
+that were not needed and that the men would have been better without.
+Spirits and tobacco could have been issued as a field or garrison
+ration, under proper restrictions. This was done at times but, whether a
+good thing or a bad thing, depends altogether upon the point of view. To
+take up the discussion would be to enter into the controversy as to the
+army canteen, which is not my purpose.
+
+The medical department of the regiment was in good hands. No officer or
+enlisted man of the Sixth Michigan ever wanted for kind and sympathetic
+care when ill or wounded. The position of army surgeon in the field was
+no sinecure. He had to endure the same privations as the other officers.
+He was not supposed to be on the fighting line, to be sure, but had to
+be close at hand to assist in the care of those who were, and oftentimes
+got into the thickest of it whether he would or not. To the credit of
+the profession, be it said, no soldier was ever sick or wounded who did
+not, unless a prisoner of war, find some one of the green-sashed
+officers ready to minister to his needs. And it often happened that army
+surgeons permitted themselves to fall into the enemy's hands rather than
+to desert those who were under their care and treatment.
+
+The surgeon was Daniel G. Weare, who gave up a lucrative practice to put
+on the uniform of a major in the medical department of the volunteer
+army. He was an elderly man with iron grey hair and beard which became
+towards the last almost as white as snow. This gave him a venerable
+look, though this evidence of apparent age was singularly at variance
+with his fresh countenance, as ruddy as that of youth. He looked like a
+preacher, though he would swear like a pirate. Indeed, it would almost
+congeal the blood in one's veins to hear the oaths that came hissing
+from between the set teeth of that pious looking old gentleman, from
+whom you would look for an exhortation rather than such expletives as he
+dealt in. But it was only on suitable provocation that he gave vent to
+these outbursts, as he was kind of heart, a good friend, and a capable
+physician and surgeon. The assistant was David C. Spaulding who remained
+with us but a short time when he was made surgeon of the Tenth Michigan
+cavalry--that is to say, in 1863. Weare staid till the war closed and
+settled in Fairport, New York, where he died.
+
+Spaulding was surgeon in charge of the regimental hospital in Grand
+Rapids, and on one occasion came to my aid with some very scientific
+practice. It happened in this way: It came to my knowledge that a man
+who had enlisted with one of the lieutenants and mustered in with the
+troop, was not in the service for the first time; that he had enlisted
+twice before and then succeeded in getting discharged for disability.
+The informant intimated that the fellow had no intention of doing duty,
+would shirk and sham illness and probably get into the hospital, where
+the chances were he would succeed in imposing on the surgeons and in
+getting discharged again; that it was pay he was after which he did not
+propose to earn; least of all would he expose his precious life, if by
+any possibility he could avoid it.
+
+A close watch was put upon the man, and sure enough, just before the
+regiment was to leave the state, he demurred to doing duty, pleading
+illness as an excuse. I sent him to the hospital but gave Dr. Spaulding
+a hint as to the probable nature of the man's illness, and he promised
+to give his best endeavors to the case. About a week, thereafter, the
+man came back, and whatever might have been his real condition when he
+went away, he was unmistakably ill. His pale face and weak voice were
+symptoms that could not be gainsaid.
+
+"Well," said I, "have you recovered and are you ready for duty?"
+
+"No, I am worse than ever."
+
+"Why do you leave the hospital, then?"
+
+"My God, captain," whined the man, "they will kill me, if I stay there."
+
+"But if you are sick you need treatment."
+
+"I cannot enter that place again."
+
+"You prefer to perform your duties as a good soldier, then?"
+
+"I will do anything rather than go there."
+
+He was directed to go about his business and, soon thereafter, I
+inquired about the case. Dr. Spaulding said: "I discovered there was
+nothing the matter with the man, only that he was playing off, and when
+he described his alleged symptoms, I began a course of heroic treatment.
+He was purged, cupped, blistered, given emetics, until life really
+became a burden and he ran away from the 'treatment.'"
+
+This man never went to the regimental hospital again, but he made no end
+of trouble. He was a chronic shirk. He would not work, and there were
+not men enough in the regiment to get him into a fight. Soon after the
+campaign of 1863 opened in Virginia he was missing, and the next thing
+heard from him was that he had been discharged from some hospital for
+disability. He never smelt powder, and years after the war, he was to
+all appearance an able-bodied man. I believe the Sixth was the third
+regiment which he had gone into in the same way. When he enlisted, the
+surgeon who examined him pronounced him a sound man, and it was a
+mystery how he could be physically sound or physically unsound, at will,
+and so as to deceive the medical examiners in either event. He died long
+ago and his widow drew a pension after his death as he did before it,
+but he never did a day's honest military duty in his life. Peace to his
+ashes! He may be playing some useful part in the other world, for all
+that I know. At all events, I am glad that his widow gets a pension,
+though as a soldier he was never deserving of anything but contempt,
+for he would desert his comrades when they needed aid and never exposed
+his precious carcass to danger for his country or for a friend.
+
+That is not an attractive picture which I have drawn. I will paint
+another, the more pleasing by reason of the contrast which the two
+present.
+
+One day a party of sixteen men came into camp and applied for
+enlistment. A condition of the contract under which they were secured
+for my troop was that one of their number be appointed sergeant. They
+were to name the man and the choice, made by ballot, fell upon Marvin E.
+Avery. At first blush, he was not a promising candidate for a
+non-commissioned office. Somewhat ungainly in figure, awkward in
+manners, and immature in mind and body, he appeared to be; while he
+seemed neither ambitious to excel nor quick to learn. He certainly did
+not evince a craving for preferment. In the end it was found that these
+were surface indications, and that there were inherent in him a strength
+of character and a robust manliness that only awaited the opportunity to
+assert themselves.
+
+He was appointed sergeant but, at first, manifested so little aptitude
+for the work, that it was feared he would never become proficient in his
+duties, or acquire a sufficient familiarity with tactics to drill a
+squad. No one could have been more willing, obedient, or anxious to
+learn. He was a plodder who worked his way along by sheer force of will
+and innate self-reliance, and governed in all that he did by a high
+sense of duty. He never attained first rank as a sergeant while in
+camp, but in the field, he sprang to the front like a thoroughbred. From
+the moment when he first scented battle, he was the most valuable man in
+the troop, from the captain down. In this, I am sure, there is no
+disparagement of the scores of fearless soldiers who followed the guidon
+of that troop from Gettysburg to Appomattox.
+
+Avery was a hero. In the presence of danger he knew no fear. The more
+imminent the peril, the more cool he was. He would grasp the situation
+as if by intuition and I often wondered why fate did not make him
+colonel instead of myself, and honestly believe that he would have
+filled the position admirably, though he reached no higher rank than
+that of sergeant. He had, however, made of himself the trusted assistant
+and adviser of the commanding officer of his regiment and would have
+received a commission, had he lived but a few days longer. From the day
+of his enlistment to the day of his death he was not off duty for a
+single day; and the command to which he belonged, was in no battle when
+he was not at the front, in the place of greatest risk and
+responsibility, from the beginning to the end. He was killed by a shell
+which struck him in the head, in the battle of Trevillian Station, June
+12, 1864. A braver or a truer soldier never fell on the field of battle.
+
+Another excellent soldier was Solon H. Finney, who entered service as
+sergeant. He rose to be second lieutenant and was killed at Beaver
+Mills, Virginia, April 4, 1865, just five days before Lee surrendered.
+Finney was a modest, earnest, faithful man, attentive to his duties, not
+self-seeking, but contented with his lot and ambitious only to do a
+man's part. It seemed hard for him to go through so near to the end only
+to be stricken just as the haven of peace was in sight; but his friends
+have the satisfaction of knowing that Solon Finney never failed to do
+that which was right and, though he gave his life, it was surrendered
+cheerfully in the cause of his country and its flag. He was one of those
+who would have given a hundred lives rather than have his country
+destroyed--a genuine patriot and a noble man.
+
+With the Washtenaw contingent of troop "F" came Aaron C. Jewett, of Ann
+Arbor. Jewett was a leading spirit in University circles. His parents
+were wealthy, he an only son to whom nothing was denied that a doting
+father could supply. Reared in luxury, he was handsome as a girl and as
+lovable in disposition. It was current rumor that one of the most
+amiable young women in the college town--a daughter of one of the
+professors--was his betrothed. He was graduated with the senior class of
+that year and immediately enlisted. Notwithstanding his antecedents and
+his station in life he performed his humble duties in the ranks without
+a murmur, thus furnishing one more illustration of the patriotism that
+animated the best type of young men of that day. Ah! He was a comely
+soldier, with his round, ruddy face, his fresh complexion, his bright
+black eyes, and curling hair the color of the raven--his uniform brushed
+and boots polished to the pink of neatness.
+
+These things together with his modest mien and close attention to his
+duties made of him a marked man and, in a short time, regimental
+headquarters had need of him. He was detailed as clerk, then as acting
+sergeant major and, when early in the year 1863, it was announced that
+Hiram F. Hale was to be appointed army paymaster, Jewett was chosen to
+succeed him as adjutant, but had not received his commission when death
+overtook him at Williamsport, Maryland, July 6. There was grief in the
+Sixth of Michigan on that fateful night when it was known that Aaron
+Jewett lay within the enemy's lines smitten by a fragment of a shell
+while faithfully delivering the orders of his colonel to the troops of
+the regiment as they successively came into line under a heavy fire of
+artillery. Weber and myself with our men tried to recover the body, but
+were unable to do so, a force of confederates having gained possession
+of the ground. In a week from that time, Weber himself lay cold in
+death, only five miles distant, with a bullet through his brain. That
+was in Maryland, however, north of the Potomac and, after we had crossed
+into Virginia, Jewett's father succeeded in finding the body of his son
+and performed the sad duty of giving it proper sepulture.
+
+All the members of the field and staff of the regiment have been
+mentioned, except Quartermaster Charles H. Patten and Commissary Jacob
+Chapman. The latter soon resigned. Patten stuck to it till there was no
+more clothing to issue. He was a good quartermaster, honest, energetic
+and capable, and that is saying a good deal for him. There has been much
+uncalled for satirical comment at the expense of the quartermasters.
+They were really among the most useful of officers--indispensable in
+fact. The man who handled the transportation for a cavalry command had a
+position requiring tact, nerve, energy, endurance and ability of a high
+order. Mr. Patten was such a man. His wagon trains never failed to reach
+the front with needed supplies when it was possible to get them there.
+The white canvas of the army wagon was a pleasant sight to the soldier
+worn out with marching and fighting; and the quartermaster could always
+count on a cordial welcome when he appeared.
+
+October 11, 1862, the regiment was mustered into the United States
+service. The mustering officer was General J.R. Smith of the regular
+army, a veteran of the Mexican war, in which he received a wound in one
+arm, disabling it. He had a slit in his sleeve tied with ribbons--a way
+he had, it was thought, of calling attention to his disability, and sort
+of a standing apology for being back in Michigan while his associates of
+the army were fighting at the front. It was an amiable and pardonable
+weakness, if such it may be called, and everybody had a liking for the
+old Mexican war officer.
+
+One of my first acts after reaching the rendezvous had been to call on
+Colonel Kellogg, who was in his room, up to his eyes in papers and
+correspondence. He greeted me cordially, congratulated me on my success,
+and assured me that he was my friend, which he proved to be.
+
+"Order your uniform at once," said he, "and go to work without delay."
+
+The result of this interview was that a tailor took my measure for a
+suit and, in due time, I was arrayed in Union blue, with shining brass
+buttons, bright yellow facings, and the shoulder straps of a captain of
+cavalry. No boy in his first trousers ever felt happier or prouder.
+
+Before the brasses had become tarnished or the trimmings soiled I took a
+run to Ann Arbor to say good-by to the boys. They were glad to see me,
+and the welcome I had was something to remember. They were like a band
+of brothers and showed the same interest as if we had been of one
+family.
+
+I think the students felt a sort of clannish pride when one of their
+number enlisted and thought that the alma mater was doing the correct
+and patriotic thing in sending her sons into the army. It was plainly to
+be seen that many of them were holding back unwillingly. Indeed, it was
+not long till some of them dropped their studies abruptly and followed
+the example of those who had already gone. Everybody gave me an
+affectionate Godspeed and I was surprised at the number of my friends.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII
+
+THE DEPARTURE FOR WASHINGTON
+
+
+It was on a bright moonlight night in December, 1862, that the Sixth
+cavalry of Michigan left its rendezvous in Grand Rapids and marched to
+the station to take the cars for Washington. It was like tearing asunder
+the ties of years, for those whose lines had been cast even for a brief
+time only, in the "Valley City."[3] The hospitality of the people had
+been unbounded. Many of the officers and men had their homes there.
+Those who had not, took short leaves and made flying visits to their
+families to say good-by and arrange their affairs for what might be a
+final farewell. The scenes of our sojourn for a few months, where we had
+engaged in daily drills and parades, in the pomp and circumstance of
+mimic warfare, were to know us no longer. The time for rehearsal had
+passed. We were about to enter upon the real stage of action, and do our
+part in the mighty tragedy then enacting.
+
+The camp was broken. Tents were struck. Preparations for departure were
+made. Adieus were said. Horses were sent away in charge of a detail.
+The quartermaster took possession of the equipments. The regiment was
+not yet armed, but was to be supplied with all the needed munitions on
+arrival in the Capital City.
+
+For some reason, it was deemed best to make a night march to the
+station. No notice of this was given to the citizens. The result was
+that when we left camp, at 2 a.m., the streets were deserted. The town
+was wrapped in slumber. No sound was heard, except the tramp, tramp of
+the soldiers, and the roar of the river as it plunged over the dam,
+which only served to intensify the stillness.
+
+Through Michigan was a memorable trip. The same scenes with but slight
+variation, were enacted at each station. Officers and men alike, were
+warmed by the hearty and affectionate greetings, the memory of which
+followed them through all the days, and months, and years of their
+service.
+
+On to Detroit, Toledo, Pittsburg, Harrisburg, Baltimore, quickly
+whirled. Flowers, music, words of cheer, everywhere. "God bless you,
+boys," was the common form of salutation. "Three cheers for the old
+flag," and "Three cheers for 'Abe Lincoln,'" were sentiments offered
+amidst the wildest enthusiasm, to which the twelve hundred Michigan
+throats responded with an energy that bespoke their sincerity. Baltimore
+was reached in the night, and when marching through the streets, from
+one station to the other, the strains of "John Brown's body lies
+mouldering in the ground," awoke the echoes in the city that had mobbed
+a Massachusetts regiment, and through which Abraham Lincoln on the way
+to his inauguration had to pass in disguise to escape assassination.
+"We'll hang Jeff. Davis on a sour apple tree," was a refrain in which
+all joined, and there was a heartiness about it that none can understand
+who did not pass through those troublous times.
+
+But Baltimore was as peaceful as Pittsburg, and no mob gathered to
+contest the right of Michigan men to invade southern soil. It was quiet.
+There was no demonstration of any kind. The passage of troops had become
+a familiar story to the citizens of the Monumental city.
+
+It was the thunder of Burnside's guns at Fredericksburg that welcomed us
+to the army of the east. The same sun that saw us bivouac beneath the
+dome of the Capitol, shone down upon the Army of the Potomac, lying once
+again beaten and dispirited, on the plains of Falmouth. Burnside had run
+his course, and "Fighting 'Joe' Hooker" was in command.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII
+
+THE ARRIVAL IN WASHINGTON
+
+
+There was little about Washington in 1862 to indicate that a great war
+was raging. The reference in the previous chapter to the "thunder of
+Burnside's guns" was figurative only. No guns were heard. It was Sunday
+morning. Church bells pealed out the call for divine worship and streams
+of well-dressed people were wending their way to the sanctuaries. The
+presence of uniformed troops in such a scene appeared incongruous, and
+was the only thing that spoke of war, if we except the white tents and
+hospital buildings that abounded on every side.
+
+Rest was welcomed after the long jaunt by rail, and the day was given up
+to it, except for the necessary work of drawing and issuing rations. It
+was historic ground, made doubly so by the events then transpiring. Few
+realized, however, that we actually were engaged in making the history
+of the most eventful epoch in the career of the Republic, and the chief
+interest of the place seemed to lie in its associations with the past.
+The Capitol, with its great unfinished dome, towered above us. The White
+House, the Treasury building, the Patent office, Arlington, the former
+home of the Lees, Long bridge, Pennsylvania avenue, the Smithsonian
+institute, the tree where Sickles killed Key. These and other points of
+interest were quickly seen or visited.
+
+And the Washington of 1862 was a very different city to the Washington
+of recent years. Where now are broad avenues of concrete pavement, were
+then wide streets of mud, through which teams of army mules, hauling
+heavy wagons, tugged and floundered. A dirty canal, full of foul smells,
+traversed the city where now are paved streets and fine buildings. Where
+then were waste places, now are lovely parks, adorned with statues. Rows
+of stately trees fringe the avenues, and green lawns dot the landscape,
+where in 1862 was a vast military camp, full of hospitals and squalid in
+appearance. The man who saw Washington then and returns to it for the
+first time, would be as much astonished as was Aladdin at the creations
+of his wonderful lamp. Certain salient features remain, but there has
+been on the whole a magical change.
+
+Camp was pitched on Meridian Hill, well out on Fourteenth street, near
+Columbia college, then used for a hospital, and preparations were made
+to spend the winter there. The Fifth Michigan, which had reached
+Washington before us, was located on "Capitol Hill," at the opposite end
+of the city. We had a fine campground, stretching from Fourteenth street
+through to Seventh, well adapted to drill and parade purposes.
+
+A few days after their arrival in Washington, the officers of the Sixth,
+under the escort of Congressman Kellogg, went in a body to pay their
+respects to President Lincoln, several members of the cabinet and the
+general of the army. Full dress was the proper "caper," they were told,
+and accordingly they were arrayed in their finest. The uniforms were new
+and there is no doubt that they were a gorgeous looking party as they
+marched up Pennsylvania avenue wearing shining brasses, bright red
+sashes, buff gauntlets, and sabres glittering in their scabbards. Mr.
+Kellogg pronounced the "Open Sesame" which caused the doors of the White
+House to open and secured admission to the presence of the President.
+
+After being ushered into the "Blue Parlor" we were kept waiting for some
+time. Expectancy was on tip-toe, for few if any of the officers had seen
+Mr. Lincoln. But no introduction was needed when the door opened and the
+President stood before us. That was to me a memorable moment, for it was
+the first and last time that I saw Abraham Lincoln. There was no
+mistaking the tall, gaunt figure, the thin, care-worn face, the slovenly
+gait, as he entered the room. In appearance he was almost as unique as
+his place in history is unexampled. But spare, haggard and bent as he
+looked, he was yet a strikingly handsome man, for there was on his brow
+the stamp of greatness. We saw him as in a halo, and looked beyond the
+plain lineaments and habiliments of the man to the ideal figure of the
+statesman and president, struggling for the freedom of his country and
+the unity of his race, whom we all saw in the "Railsplitter" from
+Illinois; and he seemed, in his absent-minded way, to be looking beyond
+those present to the infinite realm of responsibility and care in which
+he dwelt.
+
+It is the misfortune of Lincoln that his portraits have not been
+idealized like those of Julius Caesar, Napoleon Bonaparte, and
+Washington. It remains for some great artist, inspired by the nobility
+of his subject, to make those homely features so transparent that his
+reverent and grateful countrymen may look through them and see a
+presentment of the great soul and beautiful character that irradiated
+and glorified them in his life, and which will grow brighter and more
+lovely as the fugitive ages glide away.
+
+The officers were introduced, one by one, and Mr. Lincoln gave each hand
+a shake as he uttered a perfunctory, but kindly, "How do you do?" and
+then turned quickly toward the door, as though his mind was still on the
+work which he had left in order to grant the interview, which must have
+trenched sadly upon his time.
+
+But he was not to escape so easily, for the Congressman, rising to the
+occasion, said:
+
+"Mr. President, these are the officers of a regiment of cavalry who have
+just come from my state of Michigan. They are 'Wolverines' and are on
+the track of 'Jeb' Stuart, whom they propose to pursue and capture if
+there is any virtue in a name."
+
+"Gentlemen," said the President, with a twinkle of the eye, and the
+first and only indication of humor that he gave, "I can assure you that
+it would give me much greater pleasure to see 'Jeb Stuart' in captivity
+than it has given me to see you," and with a bow and smile he vanished.
+
+Although we remained in Washington for about two months, I did not see
+him again. He never saw "Jeb Stuart" in captivity, but it was in a fight
+with the Michigan cavalry brigade that the dashing raider was killed. So
+the remark of the Congressman was not such an idle boast, after all.
+
+When the Seventh Michigan arrived it was put in camp on the Seventh
+street side. Colonel J.T. Copeland, of the Fifth Michigan, was promoted
+to brigadier general of volunteers and assigned to the command of the
+three regiments. The brigade was attached to the division of General
+Silas Casey, all under General S.P. Heintzelman, who was in charge of
+the Department of Washington, with headquarters in the city. Freeman
+Norvell succeeded Copeland as colonel of the Fifth. The department
+extended out into Virginia as far as Fairfax Court House, and there was
+a cordon of troops entirely around the city.
+
+The prospect was that the brigade would see little, if any fighting, for
+a time, as it was not to be sent on to the army at Falmouth. The work of
+drilling and disciplining went on without relaxation throughout the
+winter months, and when arms were issued, it was found, to the delight
+of all concerned, that we were to have repeating rifles.
+
+The muskets or rifles issued to the United States infantry, during the
+civil war, were inferior weapons, and a brigade of Michigan militia of
+the present period would make short work of a military force of equal
+numbers so armed. It is one of the strange things about that war that
+the ordnance department did not anticipate the Austrians, Germans and
+French, in the employment of the fire-arm loaded at the breech which was
+so effective in the Franco-Prussian conflict and, if I am not mistaken,
+in the war between Prussia and Austria in 1866, also. This made of the
+individual soldier a host in himself. The old muzzle-loader, with its
+ramrod and dilatory "motions," ought to have been obsolete long before
+Grant left the West to lead the Army of the Potomac from the Wilderness
+to Appomattox. The Michigan cavalry brigade, armed as it was with
+repeating carbines, was never whipped when it had a chance to use them.
+In arming the infantry the government was fifty years behind the times.
+
+Possibly the same thing might be said truthfully of the artillery also,
+though the union artillerists, notwithstanding the handicap, did such
+effective work as would have delighted the "Little Corporal," himself.
+
+The "Spencer" rifle was an invention brought to the notice of the
+Ordnance Department about that time. Among the numerous "charges"
+brought against James G. Blaine was one that he was interested in the
+manufacture of this arm and in the contract for furnishing it to the
+government. How much truth there may have been in the assertion I do not
+know, but if Mr. Blaine was instrumental in bringing about the adoption
+of the "Spencer" for the use of the Federal cavalry, he ought to have
+had a vote of thanks by Congress, for a better gun had never been
+issued, and if the entire army had been supplied with it the war could
+not have lasted ninety days and Mr. Seward would have been a prophet.
+
+The "Spencer" was a magazine gun carrying eight cartridges, all of which
+could be discharged without taking the arm from the shoulder. It was
+loaded at the breech and the act of throwing out an empty shell replaced
+it with a fresh cartridge. Against such arms the old-fashioned
+muzzle-loaders, with which the infantry was equipped, were ineffective.
+The Michigan men were fortunate in being among the very first to receive
+these repeating rifles which, after the first year in the field, were
+exchanged for the carbine of the same make, a lighter arm and better
+adapted for the use of cavalry.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX
+
+THE STAY IN WASHINGTON
+
+
+The stay in Washington though brief, was monotonous. Time hung heavily
+on our hands. And yet, it was not devoid of incident. There is, perhaps,
+little of this that is worth recounting, of those things, at least, that
+appeared on the surface. Had one been able to reach the penetralia--the
+inmost recesses--of official and military life, he might have brought
+away with him reminiscences that would make racy reading. But this
+privilege was vouchsafed to but few, and they the elect. The logic of
+war is, learn to obey and ask no questions.
+
+One thing happened which came very near breaking up my troop, and
+threatened to destroy the regiment itself. It was at that time difficult
+to get recruits for the regulars. Citizen-soldiers preferred the
+volunteers. But it was considered important to keep the regiments in the
+regular army recruited up to the minimum, at least, and an order was
+issued from the War Department permitting regular officers to recruit
+from the ranks of the volunteers. It was a bad order, and, as soon as
+tested, was rescinded. I had the misfortune first to experience its
+effects, and the good fortune to secure its abrogation.
+
+There was in the troop a man who fancied he was slighted when the
+non-commissioned officers were appointed and, always thereafter, nursed
+his wrath to keep it warm. He was well-educated, but of a surly
+disposition and insubordinate. He was made a corporal, but thought his
+merits entitled him to something better and never got over the feeling.
+Had he gone on and done his duty, like General Grant, in the station to
+which he was assigned, he might have risen much higher. As it was, he
+never did. This man made the discovery of the War Department order, and
+soon there was a cabal which was constantly giving out that they were
+independent of my authority and could shake themselves free at any
+moment. At first, we did not know what this meant, but it soon leaked
+out, though they intended to keep it secret. It was ascertained, not
+only that they had the right to go, but that while down town on passes,
+eleven men actually had enlisted in the regular army. The recruiting
+officer had ordered them to report to him on a certain day which they
+arranged to do, thinking that they would be sent to New York harbor, to
+garrison forts and escape duty in the field.
+
+When this became known, there was no time to be lost, and Colonel Gray
+drew up a paper setting forth that if these men were allowed to go it
+would be the end of all discipline in his command and asking that they
+be ordered to report back for duty. He well understood the art of
+putting things and the petition was brief, pointed and convincing. It
+was addressed to the adjutant general of the army, but had to go through
+the regular channels and, to save time, he gave me a letter directing
+that I take it up in person. In two days, it had been approved by
+Generals Copeland, Casey and Heintzelman,--and there was a delay of one
+day at that,--due to a staff officer, who acted as a buffer at
+Heintzelman's headquarters. Proceeding then at once to the adjutant
+general's office, I was referred to Major Williams,[4] assistant
+adjutant general, one of the most polished and courteous gentlemen it
+was ever my fortune to meet. He was most gracious and kind, assured me
+that the request would be granted at once, and told me to go back and
+dismiss all further uneasiness about the matter. The next day, the order
+was rescinded, once and for all. The eleven men were ordered to report
+back for duty, and the regulars did no more recruiting in the
+volunteers.
+
+The men were ignorant of what had been done, and on the morning when
+they were to leave, they called on me in a body to say good-by. One of
+the number, acting as spokesman, assured me that it was on account of no
+ill-will toward captain or troop that they had taken the step. It was
+done because they believed it would be better for them and, as the act
+was authorized, begged that I would not think hard of it, at the same
+time assuring me of their lasting friendship. The speaker doubtless
+voiced the honest sentiments of all, for it is probable that they
+themselves had begun to suspect that they were making a mistake. In
+reply, they were assured that no ill-will was harbored, unless it would
+be in the "harbor" to which they were going, and they were urged to
+write and let us know how they liked New York Harbor, as we would always
+feel a warm interest in their welfare.
+
+Then they started, but were halted at the "sallyport," and when they
+exhibited to the officer-of-the-day their passes from the regular army
+lieutenant, he presented to them the order from the adjutant general.
+They came back, looking crest-fallen enough. Thinking that they had been
+punished sufficiently, I assured them that if they would do their duty
+like men, the matter would be forgotten.
+
+It was a good lesson and, from that time on, no officer ever had the
+honor to command men braver, more faithful, or more loyal, than were the
+regular army contingent of Troop "E" Sixth Michigan cavalry. They never
+had reason to regret the fate that kept them in the volunteers. Several
+of them are still living and among my most devoted friends.
+
+At some time during that winter, the Michigan men in Washington had a
+banquet in one of the rooms or long hall-ways in the Capitol. It was a
+fine affair. There were long tables loaded with viands and decorated
+with flowers. The Michigan Senators--Chandler and J.M. Howard--and the
+Members of Congress were present, and there was speech-making and
+music. Among those who responded to toasts was Schuyler Colfax,
+afterwards vice-president, then, I believe, Speaker of the House.
+Colfax's remarks, alone, left much of an impression, but I wondered why
+he was regarded as a great man. He had a pleasant, smiling face and very
+white teeth, but his speech did not strike one as brilliant in any way.
+
+The singing was led by Doctor Willard Bliss, surgeon-in-charge of Armory
+Square hospital, located on Fourteenth street, opposite the then
+unfinished Washington monument. Bliss went out as surgeon of the "Old
+Third,"[5] had already made a place for himself as one of the leading
+army surgeons, and his hospital was a model of good management. He was
+at Bull Run with his regiment and it was said that he sent a telegram
+from Washington to a relative in Michigan, saying: "A great battle
+fought; 'Zene' (meaning his brother) 'Zene' and I are safe." The wags
+were accustomed to figure out what extraordinary time he must have made
+in order to reach Washington in time to send that telegram. But it was
+the fashion to guy everybody who was in that battle, unless he was
+either wounded or taken prisoner. Bliss, as most men are apt to do,
+"went with the crowd." He remained in Washington after the war, making
+much money and spending it freely, and achieved notoriety, if not fame,
+through his connection with the case of President Garfield, after he was
+shot by the assassin, Guiteau.
+
+The camp on Meridian Hill was a pleasant one, and enlivened at times by
+the presence of several ladies, among whom were Mrs. Gray, Mrs. Alger,
+and Mrs. Sheldon, wives of the colonel, lieutenant colonel and
+commissary, respectively. These ladies spent much time in camp, and when
+the weather was pleasant lived in tents, which always were delightfully
+homelike, and often crowded with visitors. 'Twas but a year or two since
+Mrs. Alger's soldier-husband led her to the altar as a bride and they
+were a handsome couple, not less popular than handsome. She was a
+decided favorite in camp, winning the affections of all by her gracious
+manners and kind heart, as she has done since, when presiding over her
+hospitable home in Detroit or the mansion of the War Secretary in
+Washington. Mrs. Sheldon, who was a niece of Dr. Willard Bliss, followed
+her husband to the field and was a ministering angel to many a sick or
+wounded soldier in hospital and in camp.
+
+One day a man came to me and wanted to enlist. He said his home was in
+the State of New York, but he liked the Michigan men and desired to join
+them. He was a bright-looking, active young man and, as the numbers of
+the troop had been somewhat reduced by sickness and death, he was
+accepted and mustered in as a private. He remained with us until the
+morning of the third day at Gettysburg, when, about daylight, he
+gathered up a lot of canteens and went, ostensibly, to get them filled.
+We never saw him again, and many times when thinking of the
+circumstances, I wondered if he was a confederate spy. He was a good
+soldier and did not leave to shirk danger, for he had been under fire
+and demonstrated his courage. He could hardly have disappeared so
+completely unless he went into the enemy's lines, and, if he did that,
+must have done it purposely.[6]
+
+There is no doubt that in the early years of the war the enemy's means
+of getting information were far superior to ours and there is still less
+doubt that not only the army, but Washington, and even the War
+Department were filled with spies. Probably no union general ever
+succeeded in outwitting these confederate emissaries so completely as
+did General Sheridan. He told me in Petersburg, after the fall of
+Richmond, that he had Early's spies at his headquarters in Winchester
+all through the winter of 1864-65--they having come to him under the
+pretense of being deserters--knowing them to be such, but pretending
+that he did not distrust them, and in the spring, before the grand
+forward movement, he sent them off on a false scent, with wrong
+information for their chief--Early. With two of these, in order to keep
+up the deception, he was obliged to send one genuine union scout, who
+was arrested as a spy, in Lynchburg, and would have been hung, if the
+sudden closing of hostilities had not suspended sentence. This man's
+name was M.B. Medes, a trooper of the Sixth Michigan cavalry, then on
+detached service as a scout at Sheridan's headquarters, and never, since
+his miraculous escape, has he been able to talk about the experiences of
+that last scout without a fit of nervous prostration. In a letter
+written to me several years ago, he said:
+
+   "I don't know why it is, but I can never talk of my adventures and
+   narrow escapes while acting as scout and spy, that I do not break
+   down completely and shake as though I had a hard chill."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X
+
+FIELD SERVICE IN VIRGINIA
+
+
+It was toward the last of February, 1863, that the first order to move
+came. I had been down to the city and, returning about ten o'clock in
+the evening, not dreaming of any change from the usual order of things,
+was surprised to find all bustle and confusion, where a few hours before
+it had been quiet and serene. The regiment was to march at two o'clock
+in the morning, and preparations for departure were well under way.
+Three days' cooked rations and forty rounds of ammunition to the man
+were to be taken, the sick men and unserviceable horses to remain in
+camp, and the tents to remain standing as they were until our return. By
+this it appeared that it was to be a raid or reconnoissance, not a
+permanent change of station. Everyone was busy getting ready for the
+march. Rations were issued, cooked and put in the haversacks; ammunition
+was distributed and placed in the cartridge boxes; a small bag of oats
+was strapped to each saddle; horses were fed and the men took a midnight
+lunch. As for myself, I had the foresight to have a tin cup tied to the
+cantle of my saddle and, in addition to the cooked meat and hard bread,
+put into the saddle-bags some sugar, and a sack of coffee that my good
+mother had sent from home and which was received only a few days before.
+It was about as large as a medium-sized shot bag, and the coffee was
+browned and ground ready for use. I also took a supply of matches. These
+things were of inestimable value during the next few days.
+
+Promptly at the appointed hour, two o'clock a.m., "boots and saddles"
+and "to horse" were sounded; twelve troops led their horses into line;
+twelve first sergeants called the roll, to which every man not excused
+from duty responded; and twelve troop commanders gave the order to
+mount; when the regiment, responsive to the bugle call, "forward," broke
+into column of fours, moved out into Fourteenth street and headed for
+Long Bridge. The night was dark and dismal. The rain began to fall. It
+was cold and raw, the air surcharged with moisture, chilling one to the
+marrow. But as the troopers wore gum coats or "poncho" blankets and top
+boots, they were measurably sheltered from the storm at the same time
+that they were exposed to it.
+
+Down through the silent, slumbering city the multitudinous tread of the
+iron-shod horses awoke strange echoes, while the splashing rain-drops
+and lowering clouds did not serve to raise the spirits. It was an
+inauspicious beginning of active service, and typical of the many long
+and weary weeks of wet discomfort that the Sixth of Michigan was
+destined to experience before the summer solstice had fairly passed. The
+points of interest,--the public buildings, the white house, the massive
+Greek architecture of the Treasury building, the monument, all these as
+they glided like phantoms, through the mist, attracted scarcely a casual
+glance. Indeed, it is probable that few in that long column took note
+that these had passed at all, so deeply were they absorbed in the
+reflections that the time and circumstances produced.
+
+Thus on to the Long Bridge that spans the great water highway between
+the Nation's Capital and the "Old Dominion." The tread of a thousand
+cavalry horses did not serve to shake its mile of solid superstructure.
+It seemed a long journey from one end to the other. Above, the scurrying
+clouds, below, the angry river, all around, the drizzling storm, it was
+a sorry scene; and a sullen welcome to the soil of Virginia, that was
+then as often before and afterwards, a slippery, sticky mud.
+
+Halting at daylight, the column was reinforced a few miles out, by the
+Fifth Michigan cavalry. Resuming the march, the two regiments passed
+through Alexandria, looking with interest, of course, at the spot where
+the chivalric Ellsworth was shot the year before. What a dilapidated
+town, its whole face marred and scarred by the ravages of war!
+
+It took till dusk to reach Centerville, and the rain never stopped long
+enough to catch its breath, but kept at it, all day long. Such a first
+night out as that was! The men slept, or rather stood in the rain all
+night for sleep was out of the question. No wood could be procured, so
+no fires were built and there was no hot coffee. It was a unique
+experience for cavalrymen and they had not yet learned how to forage. I
+wandered around in the rain and finally stumbled upon the quarters of
+some infantry officers who were stationed near and had a tent and a
+fire. They kindly permitted me to stay with them till morning. But for
+this, it seemed to me that I should have perished, though the sequel
+proved that it was possible to get through a worse night without food or
+shelter.
+
+In the morning at six o'clock, three more regiments, the Fifth New York,
+the First Virginia, and the Eighteenth Pennsylvania, joined, and the
+force, thus augmented to about two thousand men, pushed on towards
+Warrenton, Sir Percy Wyndham in command. This officer was an Englishman,
+an alleged lord. But lord or son of a lord, his capacity as a cavalry
+officer was not great. He had been entrusted with one or two independent
+commands and was regarded as a dashing officer. He had no sooner assumed
+command of our force than he started off at a rapid pace through that
+part of Virginia that was between Washington and Falmouth--that is, in
+rear of Hooker's army, and where there was no enemy, unless it might
+have been small bands of guerrillas. During the day he charged through
+the town of Warrenton and a few confederate scouts coolly watched the
+column from the neighboring hills. They were well mounted and evidently
+did not fear capture. Indeed, no attempt was made to capture them, but
+away rode Wyndham, as if riding for a wager, or to beat the record of
+John Gilpin. He seemed bent on killing as many horses as possible, not
+to mention the men. The fact was the newspapers were in the habit of
+reporting that Colonel or General so-and-so had made a forced march of
+so many miles in so many hours, and it is probable that "Sir Percy" was
+in search of some more of that kind of cheap renown. It was a safe
+pastime, harmless to the enemy and not dangerous to himself, though
+hurtful to horse-flesh.
+
+That night we camped beyond Warrenton and had the first taste of picket
+duty. My troop was sent out about a mile beyond the camp and kept on
+picket until morning. A line of videttes was posted along the front, and
+so keenly did the officers feel the responsibility, that they made no
+attempt to sleep but were in the saddle constantly. It would have been a
+smart confederate who could have surprised the Michiganders that night.
+Every faculty was on the alert. Often we fancied that an enemy was
+approaching the line; a foe lurked behind every tree and bush; each
+sound had an ominous meaning and the videttes were visited at frequent
+intervals to see if they had discovered anything. In that way the night
+passed. In the morning everybody was exhausted and, to make matters
+worse, many of the men ran short of provisions. Some of them had
+neglected to bring the amount ordered; others had been improvident and
+wasted their rations. So to the discomforts of cold and wet, were added
+the pangs of hunger. The little bag of coffee had proven a precious
+boon. Whenever the column would halt for a few minutes, and it was
+possible to find anything that would burn, a handful of the coffee was
+put into a tin cup of water and boiled. It was surprising how quickly
+this could be done, and the beverage thus brewed was "nectar fit for the
+gods." When the flavor of that coffee, as it tasted on that trip more
+than forty years ago, is recalled, it is with a smack of the lips. The
+bare remembrance is more grateful to the palate than is the actual
+enjoyment of the most delicate product of the culinary art today.
+
+There were times early in the war when spirits were issued to the
+soldiers as an army ration. Though personally I never took a drop of
+liquor when on duty during the entire of my army service, yet I am
+confident that there were times when a reasonable amount of stimulant
+was a good thing. Indeed, there were times when a man was a fool if he
+did not take it, assuming that he could get it. Coffee was, however, a
+very good substitute, and to the credit of the government be it said the
+coffee issued to the Union troops was almost invariably of excellent
+quality. They always had it and plenty of it. Such a solace as it was!
+There was nothing like it. On the march, when there was a temporary
+halt, a thousand fires would quickly blaze alongside the weary column,
+and a thousand tin cups would soon be steaming with the fragrant and
+delicious beverage. Veterans could build a fire and make a cup of
+coffee almost as quickly, and under as discouraging environments, as the
+traditional Irishman can light his pipe. It seemed to be done by magic,
+and there was no time and no place where the cup of coffee was not
+welcome and appreciated.
+
+There is a song, much affected by members of the Grand Army of the
+Republic. It is styled "The Army Bean." I could never quite make out
+whether it was not intended as a burlesque. There may be enough of
+sentiment attached to the army bean to entitle it to the honor of being
+immortalized in song, but to me it was an abomination, less poetic in
+name and association than the proverbial "sow-belly" bacon, so dear to
+the heart of the soldier.
+
+Why does not some poet, filled with the divine afflatus, sing the praise
+of the army tin cup and its precious contents--the fragrant coffee of
+the camp, and march, and bivouac? Ambrosial nectar fit for the gods. The
+everyday and grateful beverage of heroes. Here is a theme for some
+modern Horace, as inspiring as the fruity and fragrant wine of which his
+ancient namesake so eloquently sang. I doubt if the red wine of the
+Horatian odes was more exhilarating to the Roman legionary than the
+aroma from his tin cup to the soldier of the Union.
+
+Oh, brimming, steaming, fragrant cup! Never-failing friend of the
+volunteer! His solace in fatigue, and his strength in battle. To thee, I
+sing.
+
+To resume the story at the point at which this digression left it: On
+the day following the night tour of picket duty, after having ridden
+from one o'clock in the morning till after eight o'clock in the evening,
+and the march not yet ended, I became so famished that a piece of raw
+fat pork was devoured with more relish than ever before I had eaten an
+orange. Our valiant commander, finding that morning that rations and
+forage were both exhausted, started for Falmouth, the nearest point at
+which supplies could be obtained. Late that Saturday night we bivouaced
+with the camp fires of Hooker's army all around. But no forethought had
+been taken; no rations were drawn or issued; no wood was supplied; and
+after three days' ride through the rain, many not having had a morsel of
+food for twenty-four hours, the entire command was forced to lie on the
+ground, in pools of water, in the midst of a drenching rain without
+food, or fire, or shelter of any kind whatever. It was dreadful, and the
+experiences of that night are recalled even now with a shudder. It was
+like lying down in the middle of a river. There was no place big enough
+to spread a blanket, where there was not a puddle of water, and, all the
+time, the rain fell pitilessly, in torrents. The solace of hot coffee
+was denied, for there was no fuel. Food was gone. The minutes were
+hours. While hunger gnawed at the vitals, a clammy chilliness seized
+upon one, making him feel as if every vital organ was in a state of
+congestion. How daylight was longed for, and soon after the first
+streaks of dawn began to appear, I deserted my watery couch and made
+straight across the country toward some infantry camps, and actually
+hugged every fragment of an ember that could be found. After a while I
+found some soldiers cooking coffee. One of them was taking a cup off the
+fire for his breakfast. I asked him for a drink which he surlily
+refused.
+
+"How much will you take for all there is in the cup?" said I.
+
+He did not want to sell it, but when I took out a half dollar and
+offered it to him, he took it and gave up the coffee, looking on with
+astonishment, while I swallowed it almost boiling hot and without taking
+breath. This revived me, and soon after, I found a place where a meal
+consisting of ham, eggs, bread and coffee, was served for a big price
+and took about a dollar's worth for breakfast.
+
+By eight o'clock, rations and forage were drawn and issued and men and
+horses were supplied with the much needed food. All of Sunday was spent
+in Falmouth and the "fresh" cavalrymen took a good many observations as
+to how real soldiers conducted and took care of themselves.
+
+Monday morning Sir Percy started by the nearest route, via Acquia Creek,
+Stafford Court House and Fairfax, for Washington, arriving there at
+eight o'clock Tuesday evening, having been absent just six days,
+accomplishing nothing. It was a big raid on government horses, ruining
+a large number. Beside that, it made many men ill. It was a good thing
+though, after all. The men had learned what campaigning meant and,
+thereafter, knew how to provide themselves for a march, and how
+important to husband their rations so as to prevent waste at first and
+make them last as long as possible.
+
+Some idea of the damage done to horses by such raids as that of Sir
+Percy Wyndham, may be gained from the morning reports of officers on the
+day after the return to camp in Washington. I find that out of eighty
+horses in my troop only twenty were fit for duty, part of which had been
+left in camp and did not accompany the expedition. However, they quickly
+recuperated, and on the eleventh of March following, we were off into
+Virginia once more, this time bringing up at Fairfax Court House, where
+we remained a week, encamping by the side of the First Michigan, Fifth
+New York, and several other veteran regiments, from whom by observation
+and personal contact, much information was gained that proved of great
+value during the following months.
+
+In the meantime, the camps in Washington were broken up and all the
+regiments were sent across the Potomac. A division of cavalry was
+organized, consisting of two brigades. Wyndham was sent to Hooker and
+Julius Stahel, a brigadier general who had been serving in Blenker's
+division, of Sigel's corps, in the army of the Potomac, was assigned to
+command of all the cavalry in the Department of Washington, with
+headquarters at Fairfax Court House.
+
+Stahel was a Hungarian, and it was said had been on the staff of Kossuth
+in the Hungarian army. He was a "dapper little Dutchman," as everybody
+called him. His appearance was that of a natty staff officer, and did
+not fill one's ideal of a major general, or even a brigadier general by
+brevet. He affected the foreign style of seat on horseback, and it was
+"as good as a show" to see him dash along the flank of the column at a
+rattling pace, rising in his stirrups as he rode. I have always believed
+that had he remained with the Third Cavalry division long enough to get
+into a real charge, like the one at Gettysburg, he would have been glad
+enough to put aside all those "frills" and use his thighs to retain his
+seat in the saddle while he handled his arms. He took great pride in his
+messing arrangements and gave elegant "spreads" to invited guests at his
+headquarters. I was privileged to be present at one of these dinners and
+must say that he entertained in princely style. His staff were all
+foreigners, and would have been "dudes," only there were no "dudes" in
+those days. Dudes were types of the genus homo evolved at a later
+period. They were dandies and no mistake, but in that respect had no
+advantage over him, for he could vie in style with the best of them. One
+member of his staff was a Hungarian who answered to the name of
+Figglemezzy, and only the other day I read a notice of his death
+recently in New York. Stahel is still living--one of the very few
+surviving major generals of the civil war.[7]
+
+It is a pity we did not have a chance to see Stahel in a fight, for I
+have an idea he was brave, and it takes away in an instant any feeling
+of prejudice you may have against a man on account of his being fussy in
+dress, when you see him face death or danger without flinching. Fine
+clothes seem to fit such a man, but upon one who cannot stand fire they
+become a proper subject for ridicule. Custer with flashing eye and
+flowing hair, charging at the head of his men, was a grand and
+picturesque figure, the more so by reason of his fantastic uniform,
+which made him a conspicuous mark for the enemy's bullets, but a coward
+in Custer's uniform would have become the laughing stock of the army. So
+Stahel might, perhaps, have won his way to confidence, had he remained
+with the cavalry division which afterwards achieved fame under
+Kilpatrick and Custer but, at the first moment when there was serious
+work ahead for his command, he was relieved, and another wore the spurs
+and received the laurels that might have been his.
+
+Leaving Washington at daylight, we went into camp about five miles out,
+expecting to remain there for a time, but had just time to prepare
+breakfast when an order came to report to Lieutenant Colonel Alger who,
+with the four largest troops in the regiment, was going off on an
+independent expedition. That evening we reached Vienna, a little town on
+the Loudoun railroad, where we found a small force, including two troops
+of the First Vermont cavalry, already on duty. This was our first
+acquaintance with the Green Mountain boys, and the friendship thus begun
+was destined to last as long as there was an enemy in arms against the
+Union. The First Vermont was sometimes referred to as the "Eighth
+Michigan," so close were the ties which bound it to the Michigan
+brigade. And they always seemed to be rather proud of the designation.
+
+Assuming command of all the forces there, Colonel Alger informed us that
+General Stahel had information that the place was to be attacked that
+night and that we were there to defend it. Selecting a strong position
+on a hill, a camp was started, but no fires were allowed after dark.
+Vigilance was not relaxed, but no enemy appeared, and on the following
+day we went on a scout through all the region roundabout without
+encountering a single armed confederate. The air was full of rumors.
+Nobody could tell their origin. Fitzhugh Lee was a few miles away,
+coming with a big force. "Stonewall" Jackson had started on another
+raid, and any moment might see his gray "foot-cavalry" swarming into the
+vicinity. Such stories were poured into our ears at Vienna, but a couple
+of days' duty there demonstrated their falsity and we were hurried back
+to Fairfax Court House and sent off on a day and night march through the
+Loudoun Valley to Aldie, Middleburg and Ashby's Gap in the Blue Ridge
+mountains. Two entire regiments, the Fifth Michigan under Colonel Alger
+and the Sixth under Colonel Gray, went on this expedition, reaching
+Aldie at midnight, in a blinding snow-storm. Remaining out in it all
+night without shelter or fire, the next day we made a gallant "charge"
+through Middleburg, finding no enemy there but a few of Mosby's men who
+fled at our approach. During the day some of them were captured and one
+man of troop "C," Sixth was killed. It was evident that Lee's army, no
+portion of it, had begun a movement northward, and the two regiments
+returned to Fairfax, making a night march while the snow continued to
+fall and mud and slush made the going as bad as it could be. At two
+o'clock in the morning the column halted and an attempt was made to
+build camp-fires, but the logs and rails were so wet that they would not
+burn, and all hands stood around in the snow, stamping their feet and
+swinging their arms, in a futile effort to keep warm. The march was
+resumed at daylight. We were more comfortable when in the saddle, on the
+march, than during that early morning bivouac. It was possible to sleep,
+when snugly settled in the capacious McClellan saddles, but when
+dismounted, sleep was out of the question. There was no place to lie
+down and to stand in the snow only aggravated the discomfort. But when
+mounted, the men would pull the capes of their overcoats over their
+heads, drop their chins upon their breasts and sleep. The horses
+plodded along and doubtless were asleep too, doing their work as a
+somnambulist might, walking while they slept.
+
+Soon thereafter, Colonel Alger with five troops (troop "B," commanded by
+Captain Peter A. Weber, having been added to the four that were with him
+at Vienna) was sent to a place called "Camp Meeting Hill," where a camp
+was established that proved to be a permanent one. At least, we remained
+there until Hooker's army moved northward. This was a delightful place.
+The tents were pitched in a grove of large timber on a piece of ground
+that was high and dry, sloping off in every direction. It was by the
+side of the pike running south from Vienna, two miles from that place,
+close to the Leesburg pike and the Loudoun railroad. A semi-circular
+line of pickets was established in front of Washington, the right and
+left resting on the Potomac, above and below the city respectively. Our
+detachment guarded the extreme right of the line. Colonel Gray was five
+miles to the left, with the remainder of the Sixth, and the Fifth still
+farther away in that direction. About two miles in front of our camp ran
+the "Difficult" Creek, a small, deep stream with difficult banks, that
+rises somewhere in the Bull Run country, and empties into the Potomac
+near the Great Falls above Washington. A line of videttes was posted
+along this creek. An enemy could not easily surprise them, as the stream
+was in their front. Well out toward this line from the main camp, two
+reserves were established, commanded by captains, and still farther out
+smaller reserves, under charge of the lieutenants and sergeants. Each
+troop had a tour of this duty, twenty-four hours on and forty-eight off.
+The "off" days were given to reading, writing and exploring the country
+on horseback.
+
+It was a charming region, not much desolated by the war, being rather
+out of the beaten track of the armies. Parties of officers often used to
+take a run across country to Gray's camp, clearing fences and ditches as
+they went. In these expeditions, Colonel Alger was always the leader
+with Captain Weber a close second. On one of these gallopades, he and
+Weber, who were riding in advance, cleared a stream full of water and
+about eight or nine feet wide, but when I tried to follow, my horse
+jumped into instead of across the ditch, the water coming up to the
+saddle-girths. The two lucky horsemen on the other side halted and had a
+good laugh at my expense while steed and I were scrambling out the best
+way we could. My horse was a noble fellow and jumped with all his might
+when called upon, but lacked judgment, and would leap twice as high as
+was necessary, while falling short of making his distance. He rarely
+failed at a fence, but ditches were a source of dread to horse and man.
+
+The Difficult Creek duty was a sort of romantic episode in our military
+experience--a delightful green oasis in the dry desert of hard work,
+exposure, danger and privation. Many pleasant acquaintances were made
+and time passed merrily. Just across the pike was a spacious farm
+house, occupied by a family who were staunch unionists, and who had been
+made to pay well for their loyalty when the confederates were in the
+neighborhood. It was said that Lord Fairfax, the friend of Washington,
+had at one time lived there. The place had about it an air of generous
+hospitality that would have become Colonial days. The officers were
+always welcomed, and it was a favorite resort for them when off duty,
+partly because the people were unionists, and partly for the reason that
+there were several very agreeable young ladies there. One of these, who
+lived in Connecticut, was the fiancee of a captain in the First Vermont
+cavalry, whose command was stationed there. Another was at home and it
+may be surmised that these ladies received the assiduous attentions of
+half a score, more or less, of the young fellows, who proved themselves
+thorough cavaliers in gallantry as well as in arms. There was no day
+when the two ladies might not be seen under the escort of half a dozen
+cavalrymen, exploring the country on horseback. On all these excursions
+Weber, handsome as he was brave, was a leading spirit, and succeeded in
+captivating the ladies with the charm of his manners, his good looks,
+his splendid horsemanship and his pleasing address. It was enough to
+make one forget the mission that brought him into the South to see him
+with two or more ladies by his side galloping gaily over the magnificent
+roads for which that part of Virginia was remarkable. Then there were
+picnics, lunches, dancing parties and other diversions to fill in the
+time. Once one of these parties ventured across the Difficult Creek and
+rode "between the lines," going as far as Drainesville--eight miles
+distant--in Mosby's own territory. When the lieutenant colonel
+commanding learned of this, he reprimanded the officers concerned for
+what he was pleased to term an act of "foolhardiness."
+
+While stationed at this place one of the young officers was taken ill
+with fever, and our friends across the way had him brought to the house,
+where everything that good nursing and kind attention could suggest was
+done for him. He was reported very ill and the surgeon said that he was
+threatened with typhoid fever. A day or two after his removal to the
+house, I called upon him expecting to find him very low. What was my
+surprise, on being ushered into a spacious, well-furnished apartment, to
+find him propped up on a bed, with a wealth of snowy pillows and an
+unmistakable look of convalescence, while two good-looking ladies sat,
+one on either side of his couch, each holding one of his hands in hers,
+while he was submitting to the "treatment" with an air of undisguised
+resignation. It may be noted that this was before the days of "Christian
+Science." I felt no anxiety about him after that, and returning
+immediately to camp, wrote to his father stating that if he should hear
+any rumors that his son was not doing well, to place no reliance upon
+them, for he was doing very well indeed. This young officer had the good
+fortune to survive the war, and is still living.
+
+During the sojourn at Difficult Creek Governor Blair visited the camp.
+He rode over in the morning on horseback and made an odd-looking
+appearance in his citizen's suit and well-worn silk hat. He remained all
+day, made a speech to the soldiers and after supper took an ambulance
+and was escorted by Colonel Alger and myself back to Washington,
+fourteen miles away. It was a very enjoyable and memorable ride. The war
+governor was full of anecdote and a good talker and his companions
+listened with the liveliest interest to what he had to say about
+Michigan, her people and her soldiers. He was very solicitous about the
+welfare of the troops, and impressed one as an able, patriotic man, who
+was doing all he possibly could to hold up the hands of the government
+and to provide for the Michigan men in the field. We left him at the
+National hotel and early the next morning returned to our posts of duty.
+
+About this time, rumors were rife of a projected movement of Lee's army
+northward. Washington and Alexandria alternated in spasms of fear.
+Twice, what seemed like well-authenticated reports came from the former
+place that Stuart had passed through our lines. Chain Bridge was torn up
+and all the negroes in Alexandria were out digging rifle-pits. Our force
+was captured repeatedly (without our knowledge) and awful dangers
+threatened us, according to Washington authority. These, and many other
+equally false reports filled the air. They were probably the result of
+logical inferences from the actual situation. The time had arrived when
+active hostilities must soon begin, and what more natural than to
+suppose that Lee would inaugurate the fray by another invasion of the
+North? Among the letters that I wrote to my parents about that time one
+or two were preserved, and under date of June 1, 1863, I wrote to my
+mother a note, the following extract from which will serve to show that
+there was in our minds a sort of prophetic intuition of what was going
+to happen. Referring to the false rumors that were not only coming to
+our ears from these various sources, but even appearing in the Northern
+papers, I said:
+
+   "That Lee will attempt to raid into the North, after the manner of
+   'Stonewall' Jackson, is possible, perhaps probable, but when he comes
+   we shall hear of it before he wakes up President Lincoln to demand
+   that the keys to the White House be turned over to 'Jeff' Davis.
+   Besides having an efficient and perfect line of pickets, scouts are
+   out daily in our front, so that the idea of the rebel army reaching
+   Washington without our knowledge is preposterous. Lee may make a
+   rapid march through the Shenandoah Valley, and thence into
+   Pennsylvania and Maryland, but nothing would please the Union army
+   more than to have him make the attempt."
+
+Three weeks after the date of that letter, Hooker's army was in motion
+to head off Lee, who had started to do the very thing thus hinted at,
+and there was not a soldier in the federal army of Virginia who did not
+feel, if he gave the matter any thought, that the confederate chief had
+made a fatal mistake, and rejoice at the opportunity to meet him, since
+meet him we must, outside his intrenchments and the jungles of
+Virginia. That Stahel's men were willing to do their part was proven by
+their conduct in the campaign that followed.
+
+Early in June a thing happened that brought a feeling of gloom into the
+little camp. Colonel Norvell of the Fifth having resigned, the officers
+of that regiment united in a petition to the governor to appoint an
+outsider to the vacancy. Governor Blair selected Lieutenant Colonel
+Alger. Indeed, that was probably part of his business on the occasion of
+his recent visit. Colonel Alger was ordered to report immediately for
+duty with his new command, and left, taking with him the hearty
+congratulations and good wishes of all his comrades of the Sixth. But
+their regret at losing him was profound. They did not know how to spare
+him. It gave him more rank and a larger field of usefulness. Major
+Thaddeus Foote assumed command of the detachment.
+
+This reference to the Fifth reminds me of Noah H. Ferry and a night ride
+in his company, about the time of Colonel Alger's promotion. I had been
+over to Colonel Gray's camp with some message to him from Colonel Alger,
+and meeting Major Ferry, who was field officer of the day, he said he
+was to start that night and inspect the entire picket line of the
+brigade, about fourteen or fifteen miles long and invited me to
+accompany him. He would reach the Difficult outpost in the morning,
+making an all night ride. I gladly accepted the invitation, both for the
+ride and to see the country. Major Ferry then in his prime, was a
+strong, vigorous, wholesome-looking man, with a ruddy complexion and
+bright eye, a man of excellent habits and correct principles. He told me
+that night what sacrifices he had made to go into the army. His business
+had cleared that year, $70,000, and with the right sort of management
+ought to go on prosperously. His leaving it had thrown the entire
+burden, his work as well as their own, upon the shoulders of his
+brothers. He had everything to make life desirable,--wealth, social
+position, youth, health,--there was nothing to be desired, yet he felt
+it to be his duty to give it all up to enter the service of his country.
+He talked very freely of his affairs, and seemed to be weighing in the
+balances his duty to himself and family. His patriotic feelings gained
+the mastery, however, every time, and he talked earnestly of the
+matter,--protesting that our duty to the government in its sore strait
+ought to outweigh all other considerations. It was clear that a struggle
+had been going on in his mind, and that he had resolutely determined to
+go on and meet his fate, whatever it might be, and when he was killed a
+few weeks afterwards at Gettysburg, I recalled the conversation of that
+night and wondered if he had not a presentiment of his coming fate, for
+he seemed so grave and preoccupied, and profoundly impressed with a
+sense of the great sacrifice he was making. A soldier neither by
+profession nor from choice, he wore the uniform of the Union because he
+could not conscientiously shirk the duty he felt that he owed the
+government, and relinquished fortune, home, ambition, life itself, for
+the cause of the Union.
+
+Some time about the middle of June, the picket line was taken up. Major
+Foote's detachment was ordered to report to Colonel Gray, and Stahel's
+division was concentrated at Fairfax Court House. The rumors of the
+movements of armies had become realities. Lee was in motion. The army of
+Northern Virginia was trying to steal a march on its great adversary.
+Long columns of gray were stealthily passing through the Shenandoah
+Valley to invade the North, and to be on hand to help the farmers of
+Pennsylvania and Maryland reap their golden harvests.
+
+But the alert federal commander, gallant "Fighting 'Joe' Hooker," was
+not caught napping. Lee did not escape from Fredericksburg unobserved.
+The army of the Potomac cavalry was sent to guard the passes in the
+mountains and see to it that Jackson's and Longstreet's maneuvers of the
+previous summer were not repeated, while six corps of infantry marched
+leisurely toward the fords of the Potomac, ready to cross into Maryland
+as soon as it should appear that Lee was actually bent on invasion of
+Northern soil. Hooker's opportunity had come and he saw it. For Lee to
+venture into Pennsylvania, was to court destruction. All felt that, and
+it was with elastic step and buoyant spirits, that the veterans of
+Williamsburg and Fair Oaks, of Antietam and Chancellorsville, kept step
+to the music of the Union, as they moved toward the land where the flag
+was still honored, and where they would be among friends. All the troops
+in the Department of Washington were set in motion by Hooker as soon as
+he arrived where they were. His plan was to concentrate everything in
+front of Lee, believing that the best way to protect Washington was to
+destroy the confederate army. Stahel was ordered to report to General
+Reynolds, who commanded the left grand division of Hooker's army, and
+who was to have the post of honor, the advance, and to lose his life
+while leading the vanguard of the federal army in the very beginning of
+the battle of Gettysburg. Thus it happened that we were at last, part
+and parcel of that historic army whose fame will last as long as the
+history of heroic deeds and patriotic endeavor.
+
+Hooker's policy did not coincide with the views of the slow and cautious
+Halleck, and so the former resigned, thus cutting short a career of
+extraordinary brilliancy just on the eve of his greatest success. It was
+a fatal mistake for Hooker. I have always believed that, had he remained
+in command, the battle of Gettysburg would have been the Appomattox of
+the Civil War. Such an opportunity as was there presented, he had never
+had before. Even in the wilderness around Chancellorsville, where his
+well laid plans miscarried through no fault of his own, he was stopped
+only by a series of accidents from crushing his formidable adversary.
+The dense woods prevented the cooperation of the various corps; the
+audacity of Jackson turned defeat for Lee into temporary victory; and to
+crown this chapter of accidents, Hooker himself was injured so as to be
+incapacitated for command, at the very moment when quick action was
+indispensable.
+
+Now the conditions were changed. Jackson, the ablest of all the
+confederate generals, was dead, and the army of the Potomac, greatly
+reinforced, was to meet the army of Northern Virginia, materially
+weakened, where they could have an open field and a fair fight. Every
+step that Hooker had taken, from the time when he broke camp in Falmouth
+until he, in a fit of disgust at Halleck's obstinacy, tendered his
+resignation at Frederick, Maryland, had shown a comprehensive grasp of
+the situation that inspired the whole army with confidence. The moment
+that Lee decided to fight the army of the Potomac on grounds of its own
+choosing, and to fight an offensive battle, he was foredoomed to defeat,
+no matter who commanded the federal army. Hooker possessed the very
+qualifications that Meade lacked--the same fierce energy that
+characterized Sheridan--the ability to follow up and take advantage of a
+beaten enemy. With Hooker in command, Gettysburg would have been Lee's
+Waterloo.
+
+Sunday, June 21, heavy cannonading in the direction of the passes in the
+Blue Ridge mountains, proclaimed that the battle was raging.
+Pleasanton's cavalry had encountered Stuart and Fitzhugh Lee at
+Middleburg and a fierce engagement resulted. Our division left Fairfax
+at an early hour, and all supposed that it would go towards the sound of
+battle. Not so, however. Stahel, with as fine a body of horse as was
+ever brought together, marched to Warrenton, thence to Fredericksburg,
+scouting over the entire intermediate country, encountering no enemy,
+and all the time the boom of cannon was heard, showing plainly where the
+enemy was. We were out three days on this scout, going to Kelly's Ford,
+Gainesville, Bealton Station, and traversing the ground where Pope's
+battle of the Second Bull Run was fought, returning by the most direct
+route to the right of Warrenton. The march was so rapid that the trains
+were left behind and a good portion of the time we were without forage
+or food. The horses were fed but once on the trip. Rains had fallen,
+laying the dust, the weather was charming and it was very enjoyable. One
+road over which we passed was lined with old cherry trees of the "Black
+Tartarian" and "Morello" varieties, and they were bowing beneath their
+loads of ripe and luscious fruit with which the men supplied themselves
+by breaking off the limbs. We passed over much historic ground and were
+greatly interested in the points where the armies had contended at
+different times.
+
+[Illustration: ROUTE OF THE MICHIGAN CAVALRY BRIGADE IN THE GETTYSBURG
+CAMPAIGN]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI
+
+IN THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN
+
+
+After one day of rest from the fatigues of the reconnoissance referred
+to in the previous chapter, at two o'clock Thursday morning, June 25,
+the bugles sounded "To Horse," and we bade a final adieu to the places
+which had known us in that part of the theater of war. The division
+moved out at daylight. The head of column turned toward Edwards Ferry,
+on the Potomac river, where Baker fell in 1861. The Sixth was detailed
+as rear guard. The march was slow, the roads being blocked with wagons,
+artillery, ambulances, and the other usual impedimenta of a body of
+troops in actual service, for it was then apparent that the whole army
+was moving swiftly into Maryland.
+
+At Vienna the regiment stopped to feed, not being able to move while
+"waiting for the wagon;" in other words, until all other troops had
+cleared the way for the rear guard. Vienna was not far from Camp-meeting
+Hill, so Captain Weber and I obtained permission to ride over and call
+on our friends in that neighborhood, intending to overtake the regiment
+at noon. This ride took us two or three miles off the road on which the
+various commands were marching.
+
+Camp-meeting Hill looked like a deserted village, with no soldiers near
+and no sign of war. We found our friends rather blue at the thought of
+being abandoned and, as good-by was said, it was with a feeling that we
+might never meet again. Weber, gallant as ever, waved his hand to the
+ladies as he rode away, calling back in a cheery voice that he would
+come again, "when this cruel war is over." Resuming our journey, a
+little apprehensive of encountering some of Mosby's men, we were
+fortunate enough to meet ten troopers of the First Michigan going across
+the country to join the division. Hurrying on through Dranesville, at a
+little before noon we overtook the Fifth Michigan cavalry, from whom we
+learned that we were up with the advance and that our own regiment was
+far in rear. Selecting a comfortable place, we unsaddled our horses and
+lighting our pipes, threw ourselves down on the green grass, and for
+hours sat waiting while mile after mile of army wagons and artillery
+passed. Most of the infantry had gone on the day before, but I remember
+distinctly seeing a portion of the Twelfth corps, en route. I recall
+especially General A.S. ("Pap") Williams and General Geary, both of whom
+commanded divisions in that corps. At six o'clock in the evening we went
+to a farm house and had a supper prepared but had not had time to pay
+our respects to it when by the aid of my field glass I saw the advance
+of the regiment coming. It was the rear guard of a column that was seven
+hours passing a given point.
+
+It was after dark when the regiment reached the ford at Edwards Ferry.
+The night was cloudy and there was no moon. The river was nearly, if not
+quite, a mile wide, the water deep and the current strong. The only
+guide to the proper course was to follow those in advance; but, as horse
+succeeded horse, they were gradually borne farther and farther down the
+stream, away from the ford and into deeper water. By the time the Sixth
+reached the river the water was nearly to the tops of the saddles.
+Marching thus through the inky darkness, guided mostly by the sound of
+plashing hoofs in front, there was imminent danger of being swept away
+and few, except the most reckless, drew a long breath until the distance
+had been traversed and our steeds were straining up the slippery bank
+upon the opposite shore.
+
+Safely across the river, the column did not halt for rest or food, but
+pushed on into Maryland. To add to the discomfort, a drizzling rain set
+in. The guide lost his way, and it was two o'clock in the morning when
+the rear guard halted for a brief bivouac in a piece of woods, near
+Poolesville. Wet, weary, hungry and chilled, as they were, it was enough
+to dispirit the bravest men. But there was no murmuring, and at
+daylight, the march was resumed.
+
+That day (26) we passed the First army corps, commanded by the lamented
+Reynolds, and reached the village of Frederick as the sun was setting.
+The clouds had cleared away, and a more enchanting vision never met
+human eye than that which appeared before us as we debouched from the
+narrow defile up which the road from lower Maryland ran, on the
+commanding heights that overlooked the valley. The town was in the
+center of a most charming and fertile country, and around it thousands
+of acres of golden grain were waving in the sunlight. The rain of the
+early morning had left in the atmosphere a mellow haze of vapor which
+reflected the sun's rays in tints that softly blended with the summer
+colorings of the landscape. An exclamation of surprise ran along the
+column as each succeeding trooper came in sight of this picture of
+Nature's own painting.
+
+But more pleasing still, were the evidences of loyalty which greeted us
+on every hand, as we entered the village. The stars and stripes floated
+above many buildings, while from porch and window, from old and young,
+came manifestations of welcome. The men received us with cheers, the
+women with smiles and waving of handkerchiefs. That night we were
+permitted to go into camp and enjoy a good rest, in the midst of plenty
+and among friends.
+
+On Saturday morning (27) much refreshed, with horses well fed and
+groomed and haversacks replenished, the Fifth and Sixth moved on toward
+Emmittsburg, the Seventh having gone through the Catoctin Valley by
+another road. The march was through the camps of thousands of infantry
+just starting in the same direction. Among the distinguished generals
+who were leading the advance, I remember, particularly, Reynolds and
+Doubleday. During the day it was a constant succession of fertile fields
+and leafy woods. Commodious farm-houses on every hand and evidences of
+plenty everywhere, we reveled in the richness and overflowing abundance
+of the land. There were "oceans" of apple-butter and great loaves of
+snow-white bread that "took the cake" over anything that came within the
+range of my experience. These loaves were baked in brick ovens, out of
+doors, and some of them looked as big as peck measures. A slice cut from
+one of them and smeared thick with that delicious apple-butter, was a
+feast fit for gods or men. And then the milk, and the oats for the
+horses, and everything that hungry man or beast could wish for. Those
+were fat days and that was a fat country, such as the Iraelitish scouts
+who went over into the land of Canaan never looked upon or dreamed of.
+
+To be sure we had to pay for what we had. Especially after we crossed
+over into Pennsylvania among the frugal Dutch was this the case. But
+their charges were not exorbitant, and so long as we had a dollar, it
+was cheerfully parted with for their food. But it seemed a little hard
+for the Michiganders to be there defending the homes of those opulent
+farmers, while they, so far from taking up the musket to aid in driving
+out the army that was invading their soil, were seemingly unwilling to
+contribute a cent, though I may have misjudged them.
+
+It looked odd, too, to see so many able-bodied men at home, pursuing
+their ordinary avocations, with no thought of enlisting, while a hostile
+army was at their very doors. It looked so to the soldiers who had been
+serving in Virginia, and who knew that in the South, every man able to
+bear arms was compelled to do so, and that within the lines of the
+confederacy, the cradle and the grave were robbed to fill the ranks.
+Lee, with a hundred thousand men was somewhere in that region, we knew
+and they knew. We were searching for him and the time was close at hand
+when the two armies must come into contact, and oceans of blood would
+flow, before the confederates could be driven from Northern soil. The
+government was calling loudly for reinforcements of short time men to
+serve for the immediate emergency. Yet, these selfish farmers would
+drive as sharp a bargain, and figure as closely on the weight and price
+of an article supplied to the federal troops, as though they had never
+heard of war. Indeed, I believe many of them knew little about what was
+going on. Their world was the little Eden in which they passed their
+daily lives--the neighborhood in which they lived. They were a happy and
+bucolic people, contented to exist and accumulate, with no ambition
+beyond that; and while loyal to the government, in the sense that they
+obeyed its laws and would have scorned to enter into a conspiracy to
+destroy it, yet they possessed little of that patriotism which inspires
+men to serve and make sacrifices for their country.
+
+On Sunday morning, June 28, 1863, the two regiments, having passed the
+night in camp near the Pennsylvania line, resumed the march and passed
+through the town of Emmittsburg. It was a little place, with scarce more
+than a thousand inhabitants, but with several churches, an academy, an
+institute for girls, and a little to the northeast Mount St. Mary's
+college, a Catholic institution, founded in 1808. Like everything else,
+thereabouts, it had a solid, substantial appearance.
+
+So quiet was it, that it seemed like sacrilege to disturb the serenity
+of that Sabbath day. The sanctuaries stood invitingly in the way, and
+one could in fancy, almost hear the peal of the organ, as the choir
+chanted, "Gloria in excelsis"--Glory be to God on high and on earth
+peace, good will to men--and the voice of the preacher, as he read: "And
+they shall beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into
+pruning-hooks."
+
+But our mission was, if possible, to find out what Lee and Longstreet,
+Ewell and Stuart were doing on that holy day. It required no prophet to
+predict that it would not be to them a day of rest, but that they would
+be more than ever active to carry out the schemes that for the federal
+army meant great hurt and mischief. Little that was positive was known
+of Lee's movements, but it was reported that he had pushed on north with
+his whole army, and was now in dangerous proximity to Harrisburg. His
+line of march had been to the west of Hooker's and as he was so far
+north, it was evident that we were making directly for his
+communications, in rear of his army. A tyro in the art of war could see
+that much of the strategy that was going on. Would Lee allow that and go
+on to Baltimore, or turn and meet the army that Hooker was massing
+against him? That was the question.
+
+Taking the Emmittsburg pike, Copeland with the two regiments pushed on
+to Gettysburg. Thus it was, that the Fifth and Sixth Michigan regiments
+of cavalry had the honor of being the first Union troops to enter the
+place that was destined so soon to give its name to one of the great
+battles of history. The road from Emmittsburg to Gettysburg ran between
+Seminary Ridge on the left and Cemetery Ridge and Round Top on the
+right. It was a turnpike, and as we marched over it one could not help
+noticing the strategic importance of the commanding heights on either
+side. I remember well the impression made on my mind at the time by the
+rough country off to the right. This was Round Top and Little Round Top
+where such desperate fighting was done three days later. We passed close
+to the historic "Peach Orchard" and over the fish-hook shaped Cemetery
+Hill at the bend; then descended into the town which nestled at the foot
+of these rocky eminences.
+
+Before we reached the town it was apparent that something unusual was
+going on. It was a gala day. The people were out in force, and in their
+Sunday attire to welcome the troopers in blue. The church bells rang
+out a joyous peal, and dense masses of beaming faces filled the streets,
+as the narrow column of fours threaded its way through their midst.
+Lines of men stood on either side, with pails of water or apple-butter,
+and passed a "sandwich" to each soldier as he passed. At intervals of a
+few feet, were bevies of women and girls, who handed up bouquets and
+wreaths of flowers. By the time the center of the town was reached,
+every man had a bunch of flowers in his hand, or a wreath around his
+neck. Some even had their horses decorated, and the one who did not get
+a share was a very modest trooper, indeed. The people were overjoyed,
+and received us with an enthusiasm and a hospitality born of full
+hearts. They had seen enough of the gray to be anxious to welcome the
+blue. Their throats grew hoarse with the cheers that they sent up in
+honor of the coming of the Michigan cavalrymen. The freedom of the city
+was extended. Every door stood open, or the latch-string hung invitingly
+out.
+
+Turning to the right, the command went into camp a little outside the
+town, in a field where the horses were up to their knees in clover, and
+it made the poor, famished animals fairly laugh. That night a squadron
+was sent out about two miles to picket on each diverging road. It was my
+duty with two troops ("E" and "H") to guard the "Cashtown" pike, and a
+very vivid remembrance is yet retained of the "vigil long" of that July
+night, during which I did not once leave the saddle, dividing the time
+between the reserve post and the line of videttes. No enemy appeared,
+however, and on Monday (June 29) the Michigan regiments returned to
+Emmittsburg, the first cavalry division coming up to take their place in
+Gettysburg. In this way it came to pass that heroic John Buford, instead
+of the Fifth and Sixth Michigan, had the honor of meeting the
+confederate advance on July first.
+
+Before leaving Gettysburg it was learned that many changes had taken
+place.[8] Hooker had been succeeded in command of the army by Meade, one
+of the best and most favorably known of the more prominent generals. It
+looked like "swapping horses when crossing a stream." Something that
+touched us more closely, however, was the tidings that Stahel and
+Copeland had been relieved and that Judson Kilpatrick, colonel of the
+Second New York (Harris Light) cavalry had been promoted to brigadier
+general and assigned to command of the Third division, by which
+designation it was thenceforth to be known. He was a West Pointer, had
+the reputation of being a hard fighter, and was known as "The hero of
+Middleburg." Captain Custer of Pleasanton's staff had also received a
+star and was to command the Michigan brigade, to be designated as the
+Second brigade, Third division, cavalry corps, army of the Potomac. Of
+him we knew but little except that he hailed from Monroe, Michigan, was
+a graduate of West Point, had served with much credit on the staffs of
+McClellan and Pleasanton, and that he, too, was a "fighter." None of us
+had ever seen either of them. General Copeland turned the two regiments
+over to Colonel Gray and went away with his staff. I never saw him
+afterwards.
+
+The Michigan brigade[9] had been strengthened by adding the First
+Michigan cavalry, a veteran regiment that had seen much service in the
+Shenandoah valley under Banks, and the Second Bull Run campaign with
+Pope. It was organized in 1861, and went out under Colonel T.F.
+Brodhead, a veteran of the Mexican war, who was brevetted for gallantry
+at Contreras and Cherubusco, while serving as lieutenant in the
+Fifteenth United States infantry. He was mortally wounded August 30,
+1862, at Bull Run. His successor was C.H. Town, then colonel of the
+regiment. He also was severely wounded in the same charge wherein
+Brodhead lost his life. There had also been added to the brigade light
+battery "M", Second United States artillery, consisting of six rifled
+pieces, and commanded by Lieutenant A.C.M. Pennington.
+
+The Third division was now ordered to concentrate in the vicinity of
+Littlestown, to head off Stuart, who, having made a detour around the
+rear of the army of the Potomac, crossed the river below Edwards Ferry
+on Sunday night, June 28, and with three brigades under Hampton,
+Fitzhugh Lee and Chambliss, and a train of captured wagons, was moving
+northward, looking for the army of Northern Virginia, between which and
+himself was Meade's entire army. On Monday night he was in camp between
+Union Mills and Westminster, on the Emmittsburg and Baltimore pike,
+about equidistant from Emmittsburg and Gettysburg. Kilpatrick at
+Littlestown would be directly on Stuart's path, the direction of the
+latter's march indicating that he also was making for Littlestown, which
+place is on a direct line from Union Mills to Gettysburg.
+
+All day of Monday, June 29, the two regiments (Fifth and Sixth Michigan)
+were scouting south and east of Gettysburg. Nor did the march end with
+the day. All night we were plodding our weary way along, sleeping in the
+saddle or, when the column in front would halt, every trooper
+dismounting, and thrusting his arm through the bridle rein, would lie
+down directly in front of his horse, in the road, and fall into a
+profound slumber. The horses too would stand with drooping heads, noses
+almost touching their riders' faces, eyes closed, nodding, but otherwise
+giving no sign, and careful not to step on or injure the motionless
+figures at their feet. The sound of horses' hoofs moving in front served
+to arouse the riders when they would successively remount and move on
+again.
+
+On the morning of June 30, Kilpatrick's command was badly scattered. A
+part of it, including the First and Seventh Michigan and Pennington's
+battery, was at Abbottstown a few miles north of Hanover; Farnsworth's
+brigade at Littlestown, seven miles southwest of Hanover. The Fifth and
+Sixth Michigan arrived at Littlestown at daylight.
+
+The early morning hours were consumed in scouring the country in all
+directions, and information soon came in to the effect that Stuart was
+moving toward Hanover. Farnsworth with the First brigade left
+Littlestown for that place at about nine or ten o'clock in the forenoon.
+The portion of the division that was in the vicinity of Abbottstown was
+also ordered to Hanover. The Fifth and Sixth Michigan were left, for a
+time, in Littlestown, troop "A" of the Sixth, under Captain Thompson,
+going on a reconnoissance toward Westminster, and Colonel Alger with the
+Fifth on a separate road.
+
+The Sixth remained in the town until a citizen came running in, about
+noon, reporting a large force of the enemy, about five miles out toward
+Hanover. This was Fitzhugh Lee's brigade, and to understand the
+situation, it will be necessary briefly to describe how Stuart was
+marching. When he turned off the Baltimore pike, some seven miles
+southeast of Littlestown, he had ten miles due north to travel before
+reaching Hanover. From Littlestown to Hanover is seven miles, the road
+running northeasterly, making the third side of a right-angled triangle.
+Thus, Stuart had the longer distance to go, and Kilpatrick had no
+difficulty in reaching Hanover first. Stuart marched with Chambliss
+leading, Hampton in rear, the trains sandwiched between the two
+brigades, and Fitzhugh Lee well out on the left flank to protect them.
+
+Farnsworth marched through Hanover, followed by the pack trains of the
+two regiments that had been left in Littlestown. The head of Stuart's
+column arrived just in time to strike the rear of Farnsworth, which was
+thrown into confusion by a charge of the leading confederate regiment.
+The pack trains were cut off and captured. Farnsworth, however, dashing
+back from the head of the column, faced the Fifth New York cavalry to
+the rear, and by a counter charge, repulsed the North Carolinians and
+put a stop to Stuart's further progress for that day.
+
+In the meantime, when the citizen came in with the news of Fitzhugh
+Lee's appearance, "To Horse" was sounded and Colonel Gray led the Sixth
+Michigan on the Hanover road toward the point indicated. Several
+citizens, with shot guns in their hands, were seen going on foot on the
+flank of the column, trying to keep pace with the cavalry, and
+apparently eager to participate in the expected battle. When within a
+mile of Hanover, the regiment turned off into a wheatfield and, mounting
+a crest beyond, came upon Fitzhugh Lee's brigade, with a section of
+artillery in position, which opened upon the head of the regiment (then
+moving in column of fours) with shell, wounding several men and horses.
+Lieutenant Potter, of troop "C" had his horse shot under him. Had Gray
+attacked vigorously he would have been roughly handled, probably, as
+Fitzhugh Lee was on the field in person with his choice brigade of
+Virginians. I have always believed, however, that a larger force with
+the same opportunity might have made bad work for Lee.
+
+Colonel Gray, seeing that the force in front of him were preparing to
+charge, and aware that one raw regiment would be no match for a brigade
+of veteran troops, made a detour to the left, and sought by a rapid
+movement to unite with the command in Hanover, Major Weber with troops
+"B" and "F" being entrusted with the important duty of holding the enemy
+in check while the others effected their retreat. Right gallantly was
+this duty performed. Three charges upon the little band were as often
+repulsed by the heroic Weber, and with such determination did he hold to
+the work, that he was cut off and did not succeed in rejoining the
+regiment until about three o'clock the next morning. Colonel Alger with
+the Fifth and troop "A" of the Sixth, under Captain H.E. Thompson, also
+had a smart encounter with the same force, holding their own against
+much superior numbers by the use of the Spencer repeating rifles with
+which they were armed.
+
+By noon, or soon after, the entire division united in the village of
+Hanover. The First, Fifth, Sixth and Seventh Michigan regiments and
+Pennington's battery were all on the ground near the railroad station.
+The confederate line of battle could be distinctly seen on the hills to
+the south of the town. The command to dismount to fight on foot was
+given. The number one, two and three men dismounted and formed in line
+to the right facing the enemy. The number four men remained with the
+horses which were taken away a short distance to the rear.
+
+It was here that the brigade first saw Custer. As the men of the Sixth,
+armed with their Spencer rifles, were deploying forward across the
+railroad into a wheatfield beyond, I heard a voice new to me, directly
+in rear of the portion of the line where I was, giving directions for
+the movement, in clear, resonant tones, and in a calm, confident manner,
+at once resolute and reassuring. Looking back to see whence it came, my
+eyes were instantly riveted upon a figure only a few feet distant, whose
+appearance amazed if it did not for the moment amuse me. It was he who
+was giving the orders. At first, I thought he might be a staff
+officer, conveying the commands of his chief. But it was at once
+apparent that he was giving orders, not delivering them, and that he was
+in command of the line.
+
+[Illustration: GEORGE A. CUSTER (IN 1863)]
+
+Looking at him closely, this is what I saw: An officer superbly mounted
+who sat his charger as if to the manor born. Tall, lithe, active,
+muscular, straight as an Indian and as quick in his movements, he had
+the fair complexion of a school girl. He was clad in a suit of black
+velvet, elaborately trimmed with gold lace, which ran down the outer
+seams of his trousers, and almost covered the sleeves of his cavalry
+jacket. The wide collar of a blue navy shirt was turned down over the
+collar of his velvet jacket, and a necktie of brilliant crimson was tied
+in a graceful knot at the throat, the long ends falling carelessly in
+front. The double rows of buttons on his breast were arranged in groups
+of twos, indicating the rank of brigadier general. A soft, black hat
+with wide brim adorned with a gilt cord, and rosette encircling a silver
+star, was worn turned down on one side giving him a rakish air. His
+golden hair fell in graceful luxuriance nearly or quite to his
+shoulders, and his upper lip was garnished with a blonde mustache. A
+sword and belt, gilt spurs and top boots completed his unique outfit.
+
+A keen eye would have been slow to detect in that rider with the flowing
+locks and gaudy tie, in his dress of velvet and of gold, the master
+spirit that he proved to be. That garb, fantastic as at first sight it
+appeared to be, was to be the distinguishing mark which, during all the
+remaining years of that war, like the white plume of Henry of Navarre,
+was to show us where, in the thickest of the fight, we were to seek our
+leader--for, where danger was, where swords were to cross, where Greek
+met Greek, there was he, always. Brave but not reckless; self-confident,
+yet modest; ambitious, but regulating his conduct at all times by a high
+sense of honor and duty; eager for laurels, but scorning to wear them
+unworthily; ready and willing to act, but regardful of human life; quick
+in emergencies, cool and self-possessed, his courage was of the highest
+moral type, his perceptions were intuitions. Showy like Murat, fiery
+like Farnsworth, yet calm and self-reliant like Sheridan, he was the
+most brilliant and successful cavalry officer of his time. Such a man
+had appeared upon the scene, and soon we learned to utter with pride the
+name of--Custer.
+
+George A. Custer was, as all agree, the most picturesque figure of the
+civil war. Yet his ability and services were never rightly judged by the
+American people. It is doubtful if more than one of his superior
+officers--if we except McClellan, who knew him only as a staff
+subaltern--estimated him at his true value. Sheridan knew Custer for
+what he was. So did the Michigan brigade and the Third cavalry division.
+But, except by these, he was regarded as a brave, dashing, but reckless
+officer who needed a guiding hand. Among regular army officers as a
+class he cannot be said to have been a favorite. The meteoric rapidity
+of his rise to the zenith of his fame and success, when so many of the
+youngsters of his years were moving in the comparative obscurity of
+their own orbits, irritated them. Stars of the first magnitude did not
+appear often in the galaxy of military heroes. Custer was one of the
+few.
+
+The popular idea of Custer is a misconception. He was not a reckless
+commander. He was not regardless of human life. No man could have been
+more careful of the comfort and lives of his men. His heart was tender
+as that of a woman. He was kind to his subordinates, tolerant of their
+weaknesses, always ready to help and encourage them. He was brave as a
+lion, fought as few men fought, but it was from no love of it. Fighting
+was his business; and he knew that by that means alone could peace be
+conquered. He was brave, alert, untiring, a hero in battle, relentless
+in the pursuit of a beaten enemy, stubborn and full of resources on the
+retreat. His tragic death at the Little Big Horn crowned his career with
+a tragic interest that will not wane while history or tradition endure.
+Hundreds of brave men shed tears when they heard of it--men who had
+served under and learned to love him in the trying times of civil war.
+
+I have always believed that some of the real facts of the battle of the
+Little Big Horn were unknown. Probably the true version of the massacre
+will remain a sealed book until the dead are called upon to give up
+their secrets, though there are those who profess to believe that one
+man at least is still living who knows the real story and that some day
+he will tell it.
+
+Certain it is that Custer never would have rushed deliberately on
+destruction. If, for any reason, he had desired to end his own life, and
+that is inconceivable, he would not have involved his friends and those
+whose lives had been entrusted to his care in the final and terrible
+catastrophe. He was not a reckless commander or one who would plunge
+into battle with his eyes shut. He was cautious and wary, accustomed to
+reconnoiter carefully and measure the strength of an enemy as accurately
+as possible before attacking. More than once the Michigan brigade was
+saved from disaster by Custer's caution. This may seem to many a
+novel--to some an erroneous estimate of Custer's characteristics as a
+military man. But it is a true one. It is an opinion formed by one who
+had good opportunity to judge of him correctly. In one sense only is it
+a prejudiced view. It is the judgment of a friend and a loyal one; it is
+not that of an enemy or a rival. As such it is appreciative and it is
+just.
+
+Under his skilful hand the four regiments were soon welded into a
+coherent unit, acting so like one man that the history of one is
+oftentimes apt to be the history of the other, and it is difficult to
+draw the line where the credit that is due to one leaves off and that
+which should be given to another begins.
+
+[Illustration: GEORGE A. CUSTER (IN 1864)]
+
+The result of the day at Hanover was that Stuart was driven still
+farther away from a junction with Lee. He was obliged to turn to the
+east, making a wide detour by the way of Jefferson and Dover Kilpatrick,
+meanwhile, maintaining his threatening attitude on the inside of the
+circle which the redoubtable confederate was traversing, and forcing the
+latter to swing clear around to the north as far as Carlisle, where he
+received the first reliable information as to the whereabouts of Lee. It
+was the evening of July 2, when he finally reached the main army. The
+battle then had been going on for two days, and the issue was still in
+doubt. During that day (2) both Stuart and Kilpatrick were hastening to
+rejoin their respective armies, it having been decided that the great
+battle would be fought out around Gettysburg. Gregg's division had been
+guarding the right flank of Meade's army, but at nightfall it was
+withdrawn to a position on the Baltimore pike near the reserve
+artillery.
+
+Kilpatrick reached the inside of the union lines, in the vicinity of
+Gettysburg, late in the afternoon, at about the same hour that Hampton,
+with Stuart's leading brigade, arrived at Hunterstown, a few miles
+northeast of Gettysburg. It was about five o'clock in the afternoon when
+the Third division, moving in column of fours, was halted temporarily,
+awaiting orders where to go in, and listening to the artillery firing
+close in front, when a staff officer rode rapidly along the column,
+crying out: "Little Mac is in command and we are whipping them." It was
+a futile attempt to evoke enthusiasm and conjure victory with the magic
+of McClellan's name. There was scarcely a faint attempt to cheer. There
+was no longer any potency in a name.
+
+Soon thereafter, receiving orders to move out on the road to
+Abbottstown, Kilpatrick started in that direction, Custer's brigade
+leading, with the Sixth Michigan in advance. When nearing the village of
+Hunterstown, on a road flanked by fences, the advance encountered a
+heavy force of confederate cavalry. A mounted line was formed across the
+road, while there were dismounted skirmishers behind the fences on
+either side. The leading squadron of the Sixth, led by Captain H.E.
+Thompson, boldly charged down the road, and at the same time, three
+troops were dismounted and deployed on the ridge to the right,
+Pennington's battery going into position in their rear. The mounted
+charge was a most gallant one, but Thompson, encountering an
+overwhelmingly superior force in front, and exposed to a galling fire on
+both flanks, as he charged past the confederates behind the fences, was
+driven back, but not before he himself had been severely wounded, while
+his first lieutenant, S.H. Ballard, had his horse shot under him and was
+left behind a prisoner. As Thompson's squadron was retiring, the enemy
+attempted a charge in pursuit, but the dismounted men on the right of
+the road kept up such a fusillade with their Spencer carbines, aided by
+the rapid discharges from Pennington's battery, that he was driven back
+in great confusion. General Kilpatrick, speaking in his official report
+of this engagement, says:
+
+   "I was attacked by Stuart, Hampton and Fitzhugh Lee near Hunterstown.
+   After a spirited affair of nearly two hours, the enemy was driven
+   from this point with great loss. The Second brigade fought most
+   handsomely. It lost in killed and wounded and missing, 32. The
+   conduct of the Sixth Michigan cavalry and Pennington's battery is
+   deserving of the highest praise."
+
+On the other hand, General Hampton states that he received information
+of Kilpatrick's advance upon Hunterstown and was directed by Stuart to
+go and meet it. He says:
+
+   "After some skirmishing, the enemy attempted a charge, which was met
+   in front by the Cobb legion, and on either flank by the Phillips
+   legion and the Second South Carolina cavalry."
+
+The position at Hunterstown was held until near midnight when Kilpatrick
+received orders to move to Two Taverns, on the Baltimore turnpike, about
+five miles southeast of Gettysburg, and some three miles due south from
+the Rummel farm, on the Hanover road, east of Gettysburg, where the
+great cavalry fight between Gregg and Stuart was to take place on the
+next day. It was three o'clock in the morning (Kilpatrick says
+"daylight") when Custer's brigade went into bivouac at Two Taverns.
+
+The Second cavalry division, commanded by General D. McM. Gregg, as has
+been seen, held the position on the Rummel farm on the second but was
+withdrawn in the evening to the Baltimore pike "to be available for
+whatever duty they might be called upon to perform on the morrow." On
+the morning of the third, Gregg was ordered to resume his position of
+the day before, but states in his report that the First and Third
+brigades (McIntosh and Irvin Gregg) were posted on the right of the
+infantry, about three-fourths of a mile nearer the Baltimore and
+Gettysburg pike, because he learned that the Second brigade (Custer's)
+of the Third division was occupying his position of the day before.
+
+General Kilpatrick, in his report says:
+
+   "At 11 p.m. (July 2) received orders to move (from Hunterstown) to
+   Two Taverns, which point we reached at daylight. At 8 a.m. (July 3)
+   received orders from headquarters cavalry corps to move to the left
+   of our line and attack the enemy's right and rear with my whole
+   command and the reserve brigade. By some mistake, General Custer's
+   brigade was ordered to report to General Gregg and he (Custer) did
+   not rejoin me during the day."
+
+General Custer, in his report, gives the following, which is without
+doubt, the true explanation of the "mistake." He says:
+
+   "At an early hour on the morning of the third, I received an order
+   through a staff officer of the brigadier general commanding the
+   division (Kilpatrick), to move at once my command and follow the
+   First brigade (Farnsworth) on the road leading from Two Taverns to
+   Gettysburg. Agreeably to the above instructions, my column was formed
+   and moved out on the road designated, when a staff officer of
+   Brigadier General Gregg, commanding the Second division, ordered me
+   to take my command and place it in position on the pike leading from
+   York[10] (Hanover) to Gettysburg, which position formed the extreme
+   right of our line of battle on that day."
+
+Thus it is made plain that there was no "mistake" about it. It was
+Gregg's prescience. He saw the risk of attempting to guard the right
+flank with only the two decimated brigades of his own division. Seeing
+with him was to act. He took the responsibility to intercept
+Kilpatrick's rear and largest brigade, turn it off the Baltimore pike,
+to the right, instead of allowing it to go to the left, as it had been
+ordered to do, and thus, doubtless, a serious disaster was averted. It
+makes one tremble to think what might have been, of what inevitably must
+have happened, had Gregg, with only the two little brigades of McIntosh
+and Irvin Gregg and Randol's battery, tried to cope single-handed with
+the four brigades and three batteries, comprising the very flower of the
+confederate cavalry and artillery, which those brave knights--Stuart,
+Hampton and Fitzhugh Lee--were marshaling in person on Cress's ridge. If
+Custer's presence on the field was, as often has been said,
+"providential," it is General D. McM. Gregg to whom, under Providence,
+the credit for bringing him there was due. Gregg was a great and a
+modest soldier and it will be proper, before entering upon a description
+of the battle in which he played so prominent a part, to pause a moment
+and pay to him the merited tribute of our admiration. In the light of
+all the official reports, put together link by link, so as to make one
+connected chain of evidence, we can see that the engagement which he
+fought on the right at Gettysburg, on July 3, 1863, was from first to
+last, a well planned battle, in which the different commands were
+maneuvered with the same sagacity displayed by a skilful chess player in
+moving the pawns upon a chessboard; in which every detail was the fruit
+of the brain of one man who, from the time when he turned Custer to the
+northward, until he sent the First Michigan thundering against the
+brigades of Hampton and Fitzhugh Lee, made not a single false move; who
+was distinguished not less for his intuitive foresight than for his
+quick perceptions at critical moments.
+
+That man was General David McMutrie Gregg.
+
+This conclusion has been reached by a mind not--certainly
+not--predisposed in that direction, after a careful study and review of
+all the information within reach bearing upon that eventful day. If, at
+Gettysburg, the Michigan cavalry brigade won honors that will not
+perish, it was to Gregg that it owed the opportunity, and his guiding
+hand it was that made its blows effective. It will be seen how, later in
+the day, he again boldly took responsibility at a critical moment and
+held Custer to his work on the right, even after the latter had been
+ordered by higher authority than himself (Gregg) to rejoin Kilpatrick
+and after Custer had begun the movement.
+
+[Illustration: DAVID McMUTRIE GREGG]
+
+Now, having admitted, if not demonstrated that Gregg did the planning,
+it will be shown how gallantly Custer and his Michigan brigade did their
+part of the fighting. Up to a certain point, it will be best to let
+General Custer tell his own story:
+
+   "Upon arriving at the point designated, I immediately placed my
+   command in a position facing toward Gettysburg. At the same time I
+   caused reconnoissances to be made on my front, right and rear, but
+   failed to discover any considerable force of the enemy. Everything
+   remained quiet until 10 a.m., when the enemy appeared on my right
+   flank and opened upon me with a battery of six guns. Leaving two guns
+   and a regiment to hold my first position and cover the road leading
+   to Gettysburg, I shifted the remaining portion of my command forming
+   a new line of battle at right angles with my former position. The
+   enemy had obtained correct range of my new position, and was pouring
+   solid shot and shell into my command with great accuracy. Placing two
+   sections of battery "M," Second regular artillery, in position, I
+   ordered them to silence the enemy's battery, which order,
+   notwithstanding the superiority of the enemy's position, was done in
+   a very short space of time. My line as it then existed, was shaped
+   like the letter "L." The shorter branch, supported by one section of
+   battery "M" (Clark's), supported by four squadrons of the Sixth
+   Michigan cavalry, faced toward Gettysburg, covering the pike; the
+   long branch, composed of the two remaining sections of battery "M,"
+   supported by a portion of the Sixth Michigan cavalry on the left, and
+   the First Michigan cavalry on the right--with the Seventh Michigan
+   cavalry still further to the right and in advance--was held in
+   readiness to repel any attack on the Oxford (Low Dutch) road.[11] The
+   Fifth Michigan was dismounted and ordered to take position in front
+   of my center and left. The First Michigan was held in column of
+   squadrons to observe the movements of the enemy. I ordered fifty men
+   to be sent one mile and a half on the Oxford (Low Dutch) road, and a
+   detachment of equal size on the York (Hanover) road, both detachments
+   being under the command of the gallant Major Weber (of the Sixth)
+   who, from time to time, kept me so well informed of the movements of
+   the enemy, that I was enabled to make my dispositions with complete
+   success."
+
+General Custer says further, that at twelve o'clock he received an order
+directing him, on being relieved by a brigade of the Second division, to
+move to the left and form a junction with Kilpatrick; that on the
+arrival of Colonel McIntosh's brigade he prepared to execute the order;
+but, to quote his own language:
+
+   "Before I had left my position, Brigadier General Gregg, commanding
+   the Second division, arrived with his entire command. Learning the
+   true condition of affairs, and rightly conjecturing the enemy was
+   making his dispositions for vigorously attacking our position,
+   Brigadier General Gregg ordered me to remain in the position I then
+   occupied."
+
+So much space has been given to these quotations because they cover a
+controverted point. It has been claimed, and General Gregg seems to
+countenance that view, that Custer was withdrawn and that McIntosh, who
+was put in his place, opened the fight, after which Gregg brought Custer
+back to reinforce McIntosh. So far from this being true, it is quite the
+reverse of the truth. Custer did not leave his position. The battle
+opened before the proposed change had taken place, and McIntosh was
+hurried in on the right of Custer. The latter was reluctant to leave his
+post--knew he ought not to leave it. He had already been attacked by a
+fire from the artillery in position beyond the Rummel buildings. Major
+Weber, who was out on the crossroad leading northwest from the Low Dutch
+road had observed the movement of Stuart's column, headed by Chambliss
+and Jenkins, past the Stallsmith farm, to the wooded crest behind
+Rummel's, and had reported it to Custer. Custer did, indeed, begin the
+movement. A portion of the Sixth Michigan and, possibly, of the Seventh,
+also, had begun to withdraw when Custer met Gregg coming on the field
+and explained to him the situation--that the enemy was "all around" and
+preparing to "push things." Gregg told him to remain where he was and
+that portion of the brigade which was moving away halted,
+countermarched, and reoccupied its former position. The Fifth Michigan
+had not been withdrawn from the line in front, and Pennington's guns had
+never ceased to thunder their responses to the confederate
+challenge.[12]
+
+Custer says that the enemy opened upon him with a battery of six guns at
+ten a.m. Stuart on the contrary, claims to have left Gettysburg about
+noon. It is difficult to reconcile these two statements. A good deal of
+latitude may be given the word "about," but it is probable that the one
+puts the hour too early, while the other does not give it early enough;
+for, of course, before Custer could be attacked, some portion of
+Stuart's command must have been upon the field.
+
+Official reports are often meagre, if not sometimes misleading, and must
+needs be reinforced by the memoranda and recollections of actual
+participants, before the exact truth can be known.
+
+Major Charles E. Storrs, of the Sixth Michigan, who commanded a
+squadron, was sent out to the left and front of Custer's position, soon
+after the brigade arrived upon the ground. He remained there several
+hours and was recalled about noon--he is positive it was later than
+twelve m.--to take position with the troops on the left of the battery.
+He states that the first shot was not fired until sometime after his
+recall, and he is sure it was not earlier than two o'clock.[13]
+
+When Stuart left Gettysburg, as he says about noon, he took with him
+Chambliss's and Jenkins's brigades of cavalry and Griffin's battery.
+Hampton and FitZhugh Lee were to follow; also Breathed's and McGregor's
+batteries, as soon as the latter had replenished their ammunition
+chests. Stuart moved two and a half miles out on the York turnpike, when
+he turned to the right by a country road that runs southeasterly past
+the Stallsmith farm. (This road intersects the Low Dutch road, about
+three-fourths of a mile from where the latter crosses the Hanover pike.)
+Turning off from this road to the right, Stuart posted the brigades of
+Jenkins and Chambliss and Griffin's battery on the commanding Cress's
+ridge, beyond Rummel's and more than a mile from the position occupied
+by Custer. This movement was noticed by Major Weber, who with his
+detachment of the Sixth Michigan cavalry, was stationed in the woods
+northeast of Rummel's, where he could look out on the open country
+beyond, and he promptly reported the fact to Custer.
+
+The first shot that was fired came from near the wood beyond Rummel's.
+According to Major McClellan, who was assistant adjutant general on
+Stuart's staff, this was from a section of Griffin's Battery, and was
+aimed by Stuart himself, he not knowing whether there was anything in
+his front or not. Several shots were fired in this way.
+
+Major McClellan is doubtless right in this, that these shots were fired
+as feelers; but it is inconceivable that Stuart was totally unaware of
+the presence of any federal force in his immediate front; that he did
+not know that there was stationed on the opposite ridge a brigade of
+cavalry and a battery. Gregg had been there the day before, and Stuart
+at least must have suspected, if he did not know, that he would find him
+there again. It is probable that he fired the shots in the hope of
+drawing out and developing the force he knew was there, to ascertain how
+formidable it might be, and how great the obstacle in the way of his
+farther progress toward the rear of the union lines.
+
+The information he sought was quickly furnished.
+
+It was then that Custer put Pennington's battery in position, and the
+three sections of rifled cannon opened with a fire so fast and accurate
+that Griffin was speedily silenced and compelled to leave the field.
+
+Then there was a lull. I cannot say how long it lasted but, during its
+continuance, General Gregg arrived and took command in person. About
+this time, also, it is safe to say that Hampton and Fitzhugh Lee came up
+and took position on the left of Chambliss and Jenkins. The confederate
+line then extended clear across the federal front, and was screened by
+the two patches of woods between Rummel's and the Stallsmith farm.
+
+A battalion of the Sixth Michigan cavalry, of which mine was the leading
+troop, was placed in support and on the left of Pennington's battery.
+This formed, at first, the short line of the "L" referred to in Custer's
+report, but it was subsequently removed farther to the right and faced
+in the same general direction as the rest of the line, where it remained
+until the battle ended. Its duty there was to repel any attempt that
+might be made to capture the battery.
+
+The ground upon which these squadrons were stationed overlooked the
+plain, and the slightest demonstration in the open ground from either
+side was immediately discernible. From this vantage ground it was
+possible to see every phase of the magnificent contest that followed. It
+was like a spectacle arranged for us to see. We were in the position of
+spectators at joust or tournament where the knights, advancing from
+their respective sides, charge full tilt upon each other in the middle
+of the field.
+
+The lull referred to was like the calm that precedes the storm. The
+troopers were dismounted, standing "in place rest" in front of their
+horses, when suddenly there burst upon the air the sound of that
+terrific cannonading that preceded Pickett's charge. The earth quaked.
+The tremendous volume of sound volleyed and rolled across the
+intervening hills like reverberating thunder in a storm.
+
+It was then between one and two o'clock. (Major Storrs says after two.)
+It was not long thereafter, when General Custer directed Colonel Alger
+to advance and engage the enemy. The Fifth Michigan, its flanks
+protected by a portion of the Sixth Michigan on the left, by McIntosh's
+brigade on the right, moved briskly forward towards the wooded screen
+behind which the enemy was known to be concealed. In this movement the
+right of regiment was swung well forward, the left somewhat "refused,"
+so that Colonel Alger's line was very nearly at right angles with the
+left of Stuart's position.
+
+As the Fifth Michigan advanced from field to field and fence to fence, a
+line of gray came out from behind the Rummel buildings and the woods
+beyond. A stubborn and spirited contest ensued. The opposing batteries
+filled the air with shot and shrieking shell. Amazing marksmanship was
+shown by Pennington's battery, and such accurate artillery firing was
+never seen on any other field. Alger's men with their eight-shotted
+carbines, forced their adversaries slowly but surely back, the gray line
+fighting well and superior in numbers, but unable to withstand the storm
+of bullets. It made a final stand behind the strong line of fences, in
+front of Rummel's and a few hundred yards out from the foot of the slope
+whereon, concealed by the woods, Stuart's reserves were posted.
+
+While the fight was raging on the plain, Weber with his outpost was
+driven in. His two troops were added to the four already stationed on
+the left of Pennington's battery. Weber, who had been promoted to major
+but a few days before, was ordered by Colonel Gray to assume command of
+the battalion. As he took his place by my side in front of the leading
+troop, he said:
+
+"I have seen thousands of them over there," pointing to the front. "The
+country yonder, is full of the enemy."
+
+He had observed all of Stuart's movements, and it was he who gave Custer
+the first important information as to what the enemy was doing; which
+information was transmitted to Gregg, and probably had a determining
+influence in keeping Custer on the field.
+
+Weber was a born soldier, fitted by nature and acquirements for much
+higher rank than any he held. Although but 23 years of age, he had seen
+much service. A private in the Third Michigan infantry in 1861, he was
+next battalion adjutant of the Second Michigan cavalry, served on the
+staff of General Elliott, in the southwest, and came home with Alger in
+1862, to take a troop in the Sixth Michigan cavalry. The valuable
+service rendered by him at Gettysburg was fitly recognized by Custer in
+his official report. He was killed ten days later at Falling Waters,
+while leading his squadron in a charge which was described by Kilpatrick
+as "the most gallant ever made." Anticipating a spirited fight, he was
+eager to have a part in it. "Bob," he said to me a few days before,
+while marching through Maryland, "I want a chance to make one saber
+charge." He thought the time had come. His eye flashed and his face
+flushed as he watched the progress of the fight, fretting and chafing to
+be held in reserve when the bugle was summoning others to the charge.
+
+The Fifth Michigan, holding the most advanced position, suffered
+greatly, Hampton having reinforced the confederate line. Among those
+killed at this stage of the battle was Major Noah H. Ferry, of the
+Fifth. Repeating rifles are not only effective but wasteful weapons as
+well, and Colonel Alger, finding that his ammunition had given out, felt
+compelled to retire his regiment and seek his horses. Seeing this, the
+enemy sprang forward with a yell. The union line was seen to yield. The
+puffs of smoke from the muzzles of their guns had almost ceased. It was
+plain the Michigan men were out of ammunition and unable to maintain the
+contest longer. On from field to field, the line of gray followed in
+exultant pursuit. Breathed and McGregor opened with redoubled violence.
+Shells dropped and exploded among the skirmishers, while thicker and
+faster they fell around the position of the reserves. Pennington replied
+with astonishing effect, for every shot hit the mark, and the opposing
+artillerists were unable to silence a single union gun. But still they
+came, until it seemed that nothing could stop their victorious career.
+"Men, be ready," said Weber. "We will have to charge that line." But the
+course of the pursuit took it toward the right, in the direction of
+Randol's battery where Chester was serving out canister with the same
+liberal hand displayed by Pennington's lieutenants, Clark, Woodruff and
+Hamilton.
+
+Just then, a column of mounted men was seen advancing from the right and
+rear of the union line. Squadron succeeded squadron until an entire
+regiment came into view, with sabers gleaming and colors gaily
+fluttering in the breeze. It was the Seventh Michigan, commanded by
+Colonel Mann. Gregg seeing the necessity for prompt action, had given
+the order for it to charge. As the regiment moved forward, and cleared
+the battery, Custer drew his saber, placed himself in front and shouted:
+"Come on you Wolverines!" The Seventh dashed into the open field and
+rode straight at the dismounted line which, staggered by the appearance
+of this new foe, broke to the rear and ran for its reserves. Custer led
+the charge half way across the plain, then turned to the left; but the
+gallant regiment swept on under its own leaders, riding down and
+capturing many prisoners.
+
+[Illustration: WILLIAM D. MANN]
+
+There was no check to the charge. The squadrons kept on in good form.
+Every man yelled at the top of his voice until the regiment had gone,
+perhaps, five or six hundred yards straight towards the confederate
+batteries, when the head of column was deflected to the left, making a
+quarter turn, and the regiment was hurled headlong against a
+post-and-rail fence that ran obliquely in front of the Rummel buildings.
+This proved for the time an impassable barrier. The squadrons coming up
+successively at a charge, rushed pell mell on each other and were thrown
+into a state of indescribable confusion, though the rear troops, without
+order or orders, formed left and right front into line along the fence,
+and pluckily began firing across it into the faces of the confederates
+who, when they saw the impetuous onset of the Seventh thus abruptly
+checked, rallied and began to collect in swarms upon the opposite side.
+Some of the officers leaped from their saddles and called upon the men
+to assist in making an opening. Among these were Colonel George G.
+Briggs, then adjutant, and Captain H.N. Moore. The task was a difficult
+and hazardous one, the posts and rails being so firmly united that it
+could be accomplished only by lifting the posts, which were deeply set,
+and removing several lengths at once. This was finally done, however,
+though the regiment was exposed not only to a fire from the force in
+front, but to a flanking fire from a strong skirmish line along a fence
+to the right and running nearly at right angles with the one through
+which it was trying to pass.
+
+While this was going on, Briggs's horse was shot and he found himself on
+foot, with three confederate prisoners on his hands. With these he
+started to the rear, having no remount. Before he could reach a place of
+safety, the rush of charging squadrons from either side had intercepted
+his retreat. In the melee that followed, two of his men ran away, the
+other undertook the duty of escorting his captor back to the confederate
+lines. The experiment cost him his life, but the plucky adjutant,
+although he did not "run away," lived to fight again on many "another
+day."
+
+In the meantime, through the passage-way thus effected, the Seventh
+moved forward, the center squadron leading, and resumed the charge. The
+confederates once more fell back before it. The charge was continued
+across a plowed field to the front and right, up to and past Rummel's,
+to a point within 200 or 300 yards of the confederate battery. There
+another fence was encountered, the last one in the way of reaching the
+battery, the guns of which were pouring canister into the charging
+column as fast as they could fire. Two men, privates Powers and
+Inglede, of Captain Moore's troop, leaped this fence and passed several
+rods beyond. Powers came back without a scratch, but Inglede was
+severely wounded. These two men were, certainly, within 200 yards of the
+confederate cannon.
+
+[Illustration: GEORGE G. BRIGGS]
+
+But, seeing that the enemy to the right had thrown down the fences, and
+was forming a column for a charge, the scattered portions of the Seventh
+began to fall back through the opening in the fence. Captain Moore, in
+whose squadron sixteen horses had been killed, retired slowly,
+endeavoring to cover the retreat of the dismounted men but, taking the
+wrong direction, came to the fence about 100 yards above the opening,
+just as the enemy's charging column struck him. Glancing over his
+shoulder, he caught the gleam of a saber thrust from the arm of a sturdy
+confederate. He ducked to avoid the blow, but received the point in the
+back of his head. At the same time, a pistol ball crashed through his
+charger's brain and the horse went down, Moore's leg under him. An
+instant later, Moore avenged his steed with the last shot in his
+revolver, and the confederate fell dead at his side. Some dismounted men
+of the Thirteenth Virginia cavalry took Moore prisoner and escorted him
+back to the rear of their battery, from which position, during the
+excitement that followed, he made his escape.
+
+But now Alger who, when his ammunition gave out, hastened to his
+horses, had succeeded in mounting one battalion, commanded by Major L.S.
+Trowbridge, and when the Ninth and Thirteenth Virginia struck the flank
+of the Seventh Michigan, he ordered that officer to charge and meet this
+new danger. Trowbridge and his men dashed forward with a cheer, and the
+enemy in their turn were put to flight. Past the Rummel buildings,
+through the fields, almost to the fence where the most advanced of the
+Seventh Michigan had halted, Trowbridge kept on. But he, too, was
+obliged to retire before the destructive fire of the confederate cannon,
+which did not cease to belch forth destruction upon every detachment of
+the union cavalry that approached near enough to threaten them. The
+major's horse was killed, but his orderly was close at hand with another
+and he escaped. When his battalion was retiring it, also, was assailed
+in flank by a mounted charge of the First Virginia cavalry, which was
+met and driven back by the other battalion of the Fifth Michigan led by
+Colonel Alger.
+
+Then, as it seemed, the two belligerent forces paused to get their
+second breath. Up to that time, the battle had raged with varying
+fortune. Victory, that appeared about to perch first on one banner, and
+then on the other, held aloof, as if disdaining to favor either. The
+odds, indeed, had been rather with the confederates than against them,
+for Stuart managed to out-number his adversary at every critical point,
+though Gregg forced the fighting, putting Stuart on his defense, and
+checkmating his plan to fight an offensive battle. But the wily
+confederate had kept his two choicest brigades in reserve for the
+supreme moment, intending then to throw them into the contest and sweep
+the field with one grand, resistless charge.
+
+[Illustration: LUTHER S. TROWBRIDGE]
+
+All felt that the time for this effort had come, when a body of mounted
+men began to emerge from the woods on the left of the confederate line,
+northeast of the Rummel buildings, and form column to the right as they
+debouched into the open field. Squadron after squadron, regiment after
+regiment, orderly as if on parade, came into view, and successively took
+their places.
+
+Then Pennington opened with all his guns. Six rifled pieces, as fast as
+they could fire, rained shot and shell into that fated column. The
+effect was deadly. Great gaps were torn in that mass of mounted men, but
+the rents were quickly closed. Then, they were ready. Confederate
+chroniclers tell us there were two brigades--eight regiments--under
+their own favorite leaders. In the van, floated a stand of colors. It
+was the battle-flag of Wade Hampton, who with Fitzhugh Lee was leading
+the assaulting column. In superb form, with sabers glistening, they
+advanced. The men on foot gave way to let them pass. It was an inspiring
+and an imposing spectacle, that brought a thrill to the hearts of the
+spectators on the opposite slope. Pennington double-shotted his guns
+with canister, and the head of the column staggered under each
+murderous discharge. But still it advanced, led on by an imperturbable
+spirit, that no storm of war could cow.
+
+Meantime, the Fifth Michigan had drawn aside a little to the left,
+making ready to spring. McIntosh's squadrons were in the edge of the
+opposite woods. The Seventh was sullenly retiring with faces to the foe.
+Weber and his battalion and the other troops of the Sixth were on edge
+for the fray, should the assault take the direction of Pennington's
+battery which they were supporting.
+
+On and on, nearer and nearer, came the assaulting column, charging
+straight for Randol's battery. The storm of canister caused them to
+waver a little, but that was all. A few moments would bring them among
+Chester's guns who, like Pennington's lieutenants, was still firing with
+frightful regularity, as fast as he could load. Then Gregg rode over to
+the First Michigan, and directed Town to charge. Custer dashed up with
+similar instructions, and as Town ordered sabers to be drawn, placed
+himself by his side, in front of the leading squadron.
+
+With ranks well closed, with guidons flying and bugles sounding, the
+grand old regiment of veterans, led by Town and Custer, moved forward to
+meet that host, outnumbering it three to one. First at a trot, then the
+command to charge rang out, and with gleaming saber and flashing pistol,
+Town and his heroes were hurled right in the teeth of Hampton and
+Fitzhugh Lee. Alger, who with the Fifth had been waiting for the right
+moment, charged in on the right flank of the column as it passed, as did
+some of McIntosh's squadrons, on the left. One troop of the Seventh, led
+by Lieutenant Dan. Littlefield, also joined in the charge.
+
+Then it was steel to steel. For minutes--and for minutes that seemed
+like years--the gray column stood and staggered before the blow; then
+yielded and fled. Alger and McIntosh had pierced its flanks, but Town's
+impetuous charge in front went through it like a wedge, splitting it in
+twain, and scattering the confederate horsemen in disorderly rout back
+to the woods from whence they came.
+
+During the last melee, the brazen lips of the cannon were dumb. It was a
+hand-to-hand encounter between the Michigan men and the flower of the
+southern cavaliers, led by their favorite commanders.
+
+Stuart retreated to his stronghold, leaving the union forces in
+possession of the field.
+
+The rally sounded, the lines were reformed, the wounded were cared for,
+and everything was made ready for a renewal of the conflict. But the
+charge of the First Michigan ended the cavalry fighting on the right at
+Gettysburg. Military critics have pronounced it the finest cavalry
+charge made during that war.
+
+Custer's brigade lost one officer (Major Ferry) and 28 men killed; 11
+officers and 112 men wounded; 67 men missing; total loss, 219. Gregg's
+division lost one man killed; 7 officers and 19 men wounded; 8 men
+missing; total, 35. In other words, while Gregg's division, two
+brigades, lost 35, Custer's single brigade suffered a loss of 219. These
+figures apply to the fight on July 3, only. The official figures show
+that the brigade, during the three days, July 1, 2 and 3, lost 1 officer
+and 31 men killed; 13 officers and 134 men wounded; 78 men missing;
+total, 257.[14]
+
+For more than twenty years after the close of the civil war, the part
+played by Gregg, Custer and McIntosh and their brave followers in the
+battle of Gettysburg received but scant recognition. Even the maps
+prepared by the corps of engineers stopped short of Cress's Ridge and
+Rummel's fields. "History" was practically silent upon the subject, and
+had not the survivors of those commands taken up the matter, there might
+have been no record of the invaluable services which the Second cavalry
+division and Custer's Michigan brigade rendered at the very moment when
+a slight thing would have turned the tide of victory the other way. In
+other words, the decisive charge of Colonel Town and his Michiganders
+coincided in point of time with the failure of Pickett's assault upon
+the center, and was a contributing cause in bringing about the latter
+result.
+
+[Illustration: CHARLES H. TOWN]
+
+About the year 1884, a monument was dedicated on the Rummel farm which
+was intended to mark as nearly as possible the exact spot where Gregg
+and Custer crossed swords with Hampton and Fitzhugh Lee in the final
+clash of the cavalry fight. This monument was paid for by voluntary
+contributions of the survivors of the men who fought with Gregg and
+Custer. Colonel George Gray of the Sixth Michigan alone contributed four
+hundred dollars. Many others were equally liberal. On that day Colonel
+Brooke-Rawle, of Philadelphia, who served in the Third Pennsylvania
+cavalry, of Gregg's division, delivered an address upon the "Cavalry
+Fight on the Right Flank, at Gettysburg." It was an eloquent tribute to
+Gregg and his Second division and to the Michigan brigade though, like a
+loyal knight, he claimed the lion's share of the glory for his own, and
+placed chaplets of laurel upon the brow of his ideal hero of
+Pennsylvania rather than upon that of "Lancelot, or another." In other
+words, he did not estimate Custer's part at its full value, an omission
+for which he subsequently made graceful and honorable acknowledgment. In
+this affair there were honors enough to go around.
+
+Subsequently General Luther S. Trowbridge, of Detroit, who was an
+officer in the Fifth Michigan cavalry, who like Colonel Brooke-Rawle
+fought most creditably in the cavalry fight on the right, wrote a paper
+on the same subject which was read before the Michigan commandery of the
+Loyal Legion. This very fitly supplemented Colonel Brooke-Rawle's
+polished oration. In the year 1889, another monument erected by the
+state of Michigan on the Rummel farm, and but a hundred yards or such a
+matter from the other, was dedicated. The writer of these
+"Recollections" was the orator of the occasion, and the points of his
+address are contained in the narrative which constitutes this chapter.
+Those three papers and others written since that time, notably one by
+General George B. Davis, judge advocate general, U.S.A., and one by
+Captain Miller, of the Third Pennsylvania cavalry, have brought the
+cavalry fight at Gettysburg into the limelight, so that there is no
+longer any pretext for the historian or student of the history of the
+civil war to profess ignorance of the events of that day which reflect
+so much luster on the cavalry arm of the service.
+
+To illustrate the point made in these concluding paragraphs that the
+part taken by the cavalry on the right is at last understood and
+acknowledged, the following extract from an address given before the
+students of the Orchard Lake military academy by General Charles King
+the gifted author of "The Colonel's Daughter," and many other writings,
+is herein quoted. General King is himself a cavalry officer with a
+brilliant record in the army of the United States. In that address to
+the students on "The Battle of Gettysburg," he said:
+
+   "And so, just as Gettysburg was the turning point of the great war,
+   so, to my thinking, was the grapple with and overthrow of Stuart on
+   the fields of the Rummel farm the turning point of Gettysburg. Had he
+   triumphed there; had he cut his way through or over that glorious
+   brigade of Wolverines and come sweeping all before him down among the
+   reserve batteries and ammunition trains, charging furiously at the
+   rear of our worn and exhausted infantry even as Pickett's devoted
+   Virginians assailed their front, no man can say what scenes of rout
+   and disaster might not have occurred. Pickett's charge was the grand
+   and dramatic climax of the fight because it was seen of all men.
+   Stuart's dash upon the Second division far out on the right flank was
+   hardly heard of for years after. It would have rung the world over
+   but for the Michigan men. Pennsylvania and New Jersey, New York and
+   the little contingent of Marylanders had been fighting for days, were
+   scattered, dismounted and exhausted when the plumes of Stuart came
+   floating out from the woods of the Stallsmith farm, Hampton and
+   Fitzhugh Lee at his back. It was Custer and the Wolverines who flew
+   like bull dogs straight at the throat of the foes; who blocked his
+   headlong charge; who pinned him to the ground while like wolves their
+   comrade troops rushed upon his flanks.
+
+   "It may be, perhaps an out-cropping of the old trooper spirit now
+   but, as I look back upon the momentous four years' struggle, with all
+   its lessons of skill and fortitude and valor incomparable, it seems
+   to me that, could I have served in only one of its great combats,
+   drawn saber in just one supreme crisis on whose doubtful issue hung
+   trembling the fate of the whole union, I would beg to live that day
+   over again and to ride with Gregg and McIntosh and Custer; to share
+   in the wild, fierce charge of the Michigan men; to have my name go
+   down to posterity with those of Alger and Kidd, Town and Trowbridge,
+   Briggs and gallant Ferry, whose dead hand gripped the saber hilt and
+   the very grave. To have it said that I fought with the old Second
+   division of the cavalry corps that day when it went and grappled and
+   overwhelmed the foe in the full tide of his career, at the very
+   climax of the struggle, and hurled him back to the banks of the
+   Rubicon of the rebellion, to cross it then and there for the last
+   time, to look his last upon the green hills of Maryland--nevermore to
+   vex our soil until, casting away the sword, he could come with
+   outstretched hand and be hailed as friend and brother."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII
+
+FROM GETTYSBURG TO FALLING WATERS
+
+
+When the battle of Gettysburg was ended and the shadows of night began
+to gather upon the Rummel fields, the troopers of the Michigan cavalry
+brigade had a right to feel that they had acted well their parts, and
+contributed their full share to the glory and success of the Union arms.
+They had richly earned a rest, but were destined not to obtain it until
+after many days of such toil and hardship as to surpass even the
+previous experiences of the campaign.
+
+After a brief bivouac on the battle field, the brigade was moved to the
+Baltimore pike whence, at daybreak, it marched to the vicinity of
+Emmittsburg. There, on the morning of July 4, the two brigades of the
+Third division reunited. The First brigade, under the lamented
+Farnsworth, it will be remembered had been engaged the previous day upon
+the left flank near "Round Top," under the eye of the division
+commander.
+
+Farnsworth, the gallant young officer who had been a brigadier general
+but four days, had been killed while leading a charge against infantry
+behind stone walls. His brigade was compelled to face infantry because
+all of the confederate cavalry had been massed under Stuart against
+Meade's right. It was intended that Custer should report to Kilpatrick
+on the left flank but, as we have seen, he was providentially where he
+was most needed, and where his presence was effective in preventing
+disaster. The charge in which Farnsworth lost his life was ordered by
+Kilpatrick and was unquestionably against the former's judgment. But he
+was too brave a man and too conscientious to do anything else than obey
+orders to the letter. His courage had been put to the proof in more than
+a score of battles. As an officer in the Eighth Illinois cavalry and as
+an aid on the staff of General Pleasonton, chief of cavalry, he had won
+such deserved distinction that he, like Custer, was promoted from
+captain to brigadier general on June 28 and assigned to command of the
+First brigade of Kilpatrick's division when Custer took the Second. This
+was done in spite of the fact that he was not a graduate of the military
+academy or even an officer of the regular army. I knew him before the
+war when he was a student in the University of Michigan, and a more
+intrepid spirit than he possessed never resided within the breast of
+man. It was but a day, it might be said, that he had worn his new
+honors. He was proud, ambitious, spirited, loyal, brave, true as steel
+to his country and his convictions of duty, and to his own manhood.
+
+He did not hesitate for one moment. Drawing his saber and placing
+himself at the head of his command, he led his men to the inevitable
+slaughter and boldly went to his own death. It was a pity to sacrifice
+such an officer and such men as followed him inside the confederate
+lines. The charge was one of the most gallant ever made, though barren
+of results. The little force came back shattered to pieces and without
+their leader. The cavalry corps had lost an officer whose place was hard
+to fill. Had he lived, the brave young Illinoisan might have been
+another Custer. He had all the qualities needed to make a great
+career--youth, health, a noble physique, courage, patriotism, ambition,
+ability and rank. He was poised, like Custer, and had discretion as well
+as dash. They were a noble pair, and nobly did they justify the
+confidence reposed in them. One lived to court death on scores of battle
+fields, winning imperishable laurels in them all; the other was cut down
+in the very beginning of his brilliant career, but his name will forever
+be associated with what is destined to be in history the most memorable
+battle of the war, and the one from which is dated the beginning of the
+downfall of the confederate cause, and the complete restoration of the
+union. Farnsworth will not be forgotten as long as a grateful people
+remember the name and the glory of Gettysburg.
+
+Although General Judson Kilpatrick had been in command of the division
+since the 30th of June, at Hanover, many of the Michigan men had never
+set eyes upon him until that morning, and there was much curiosity to
+get a sight of the already famous cavalryman. He had begun to be a
+terror to foes, and there was a well-grounded fear that he might become
+a menace to friends as well. He was brave to rashness, capricious,
+ambitious, reckless in rushing into scrapes, and generally full of
+expedients in getting out, though at times he seemed to lose his head
+entirely when beset by perils which he, himself, had invited. He was
+prodigal of human life, though to do him justice he rarely spared
+himself. While he was not especially refined in manners and in
+conversation, he had an intellect that would at times emit flashes so
+brilliant as to blind those who knew him best to his faults. He was the
+very type of one of the wayward cavaliers who survived the death of
+Charles the First, to shine in the court of Charles the Second. He was a
+ready and fluent speaker--an orator, in fact--and had the gift of
+charming an audience with his insinuating tongue.
+
+As closely as I can from memory, I will draw a pen-sketch of him as he
+appeared at that time: Not an imposing figure as he sat with a jaunty
+air upon his superb chestnut horse, for he was of slight build though
+supple and agile as an athlete; a small, though well-knit form, dressed
+in a close-fitting and natty suit of blue; a blouse with the buttons and
+shoulder straps of a brigadier-general; the conventional boots and spurs
+and saber; a black hat with the brim turned down on one side, up on the
+other, in a way affected by himself, which gave to the style his own
+name. This completed his uniform--not a striking or picturesque one in
+any respect. Save for the peculiar style of hat, there was nothing about
+it to distinguish him from others of like rank. But his face was a
+marked one, showing his individuality in every line. A prominent nose, a
+wide mouth, a firm jaw, thin cheeks set off by side whiskers rather
+light in color, and eyes that were cold and lusterless, but
+searching--these were the salient characteristics of a countenance that
+once seen, was never forgotten. His voice had a peculiar, piercing
+quality, though it was not unmusical in sound. In giving commands he
+spoke in brusque tones and in an imperious manner. It was not long till
+every man in the division had seen him and knew him well. In a few days
+he had fairly earned the soubriquet "Kill Cavalry," which clung to him
+till he left for the west. This was not because men were killed while
+under his command, for that was their business and every trooper knew
+that death was liable to come soon or late, while he was in the line of
+duty, but for the reason that so many lives were sacrificed by him for
+no good purpose whatever.
+
+[Illustration: JUDSON KILPATRICK]
+
+Well, on the morning of the Fourth, General Kilpatrick sent an order to
+regimental commanders to draw three days' rations and be prepared for a
+protracted absence from the army, as we were to go to the right and rear
+of Lee to try and intercept his trains, and in every way to harass his
+retreating columns as much as possible. We were all proud of our new
+commanders, for it was evident that they were fighting men, and that
+while they would lead us into danger, if we survived it there would be
+left the consciousness of having done our duty, and the credit of
+accomplishing something for the cause.
+
+It must also be said that a strong feeling of "pride in the corps" had
+taken root. Men were proud that they belonged to Kilpatrick's division
+and to Custer's brigade, for it must not be supposed that the above
+estimate of the former is based upon what we knew of him at that time.
+We were under him for a long time after that. This was the first day
+that we felt the influence of his immediate presence.
+
+When it was known that Kilpatrick was to lead a movement to the enemy's
+rear all felt that the chances were excellent for the country to hear a
+good deal about our exploits within the next few days, and nobody
+regretted it.
+
+But before the start it began to rain in torrents. It has been said that
+a great battle always produces rain. My recollection is not clear as to
+the other battles, but I know that the day after Gettysburg the
+flood-gates of heaven were opened, and as the column of cavalry took its
+way towards Emmittsburg it was deluged. It seemed as if the firmament
+were an immense tank, the contents of which were spilled all at once.
+Such a drenching as we had! Even heavy gum coats and horsehide boots
+were hardly proof against it. It poured and poured, the water running
+in streams off the horses' backs, making of every rivulet a river and of
+every river and mountain stream a raging flood.
+
+But Lee was in retreat and, rain or shine, it was our duty to reach his
+rear, so all day long we plodded and plashed along the muddy roads
+towards the passes in the Catoctin and South mountains. It was a tedious
+ride for men already worn out with incessant marching and the fatigues
+of many days. It hardly occurred to the tired trooper that it was the
+anniversary of the nation's natal day. There were no fireworks, and
+enthusiasm was quenched not by the weather only but by the knowledge
+that the confederate army, though repulsed, was not captured. The news
+of Grant's glorious victory in the west filled every heart with joy, of
+course, but the prospect of going back into Virginia to fight the war
+over again was not alluring.
+
+But possibly that might not be our fate. Vigorous pursuit might
+intercept Lee on this side of the Potomac. Every trooper felt that he
+could endure wet and brave the storm to aid in such strategy, and all
+set their faces to the weather and rode, if not cheerfully, at least
+patiently forward in the rain.
+
+I have said that on that memorable Fourth of July there were no
+fireworks. That was a mistake. The pyrotechnic display was postponed
+until a late hour, but it was an interesting and exciting exhibition, as
+all who witnessed it will testify. It was in the night and darkness
+lent intensity to the scene.
+
+Toward evening the flood subsided somewhat, though the sky was overcast
+with wet-looking clouds, and the swollen and muddy streams that ran
+along and across our pathway fretted and frothed like impatient coursers
+under curb and rein. Their banks could hardly hold them.
+
+During the afternoon and evening the column was climbing the South
+mountain. A big confederate wagon train was going through the gap ahead
+of us. If we could capture that, it would be making reprisal for some of
+Stuart's recent work in Maryland.
+
+Toward midnight we were nearing the top, marching along the narrow
+defile, the mountain towering to the right, and sloping off abruptly to
+the left, when the boom of a cannon announced that the advance guard had
+encountered the enemy. The piece of artillery was planted in the road,
+at the summit, near the Monterey house, and was supported by the
+confederate rearguard, which at once opened fire with their carbines. It
+was too dark to distinguish objects at any distance, the enemy was
+across the front and no one could tell how large a force it might be.
+The First Michigan had been sent to the right, early in the evening, to
+attack a body of the enemy, hovering on the right flank in the direction
+of Fairfield, and had a hard fight, in which Captain Elliott and
+Lieutenant McElhenny, two brave officers, were killed. The Fifth and
+Sixth were leading and at once dismounted and deployed as skirmishers.
+Generals Kilpatrick and Custer rode to the place where the line was
+forming, and superintended the movement. The Sixth, under Colonel Gray,
+was on the right of the line, the road to its left. At least the portion
+of the regiment to which my troop belonged was in that position. I
+think, perhaps, a part of the regiment was across the road. The Fifth
+formed on the left; the First and Seventh in reserve, mounted. There is
+a good deal of guess work about it, for in the darkness one could not
+tell what happened except in his immediate neighborhood.
+
+The order "Forward," finally came, and the line of skirmishers advanced
+up the slope, a column of mounted men following in the road, ready to
+charge when opportunity offered. Soon we encountered the confederate
+skirmishers, but could locate them only by the flashes of their guns.
+The darkness was intense and in a few moments we had plunged into a
+dense thicket, full of undergrowth, interlaced with vines and briars, so
+thick that it was difficult to make headway at all. More than once a
+trailing vine tripped me up, and I fell headlong. To keep up an
+alignment was out of the question. One had to be guided by sound and not
+by sight. The force in front did not appear to be formidable in numbers,
+but had the advantage of position, and was on the defensive in a narrow
+mountain pass where numbers were of little avail. We had a large force,
+but it was strung out in a long column for miles back, and it was
+possible to bring only a few men into actual contact with the enemy,
+whatever he might be. This last was a matter of conjecture and
+Kilpatrick doubtless felt the necessity of moving cautiously, feeling
+his way until he developed what was in his front. To the right of the
+road, had it not been for the noise and the flashing of the enemy's fire
+we should have wandered away in the darkness and been lost.
+
+The confederate skirmishers were driven back across a swollen stream
+spanned by a bridge. The crossing at this point was contested fiercely,
+but portions of the Fifth and Sixth finally forced it and then the whole
+command crossed over.
+
+In the meantime the rumbling of wagon wheels could be heard in the road
+leading down the mountain. It was evident we were being detained by a
+small force striving to hold us there while the train made its escape. A
+regiment was ordered up mounted to make a charge. I heard the colonel
+giving his orders. "Men," he said, "use the saber only; I will cut down
+any man who fires a shot." This was to prevent shooting our own men in
+the melee, and in the darkness. Inquiring, I learned it was the First
+(West) Virginia cavalry. This regiment which belonged in the First
+brigade had been ordered to report to Custer. At the word, the gallant
+regiment rushed like the wind down the mountain road, "yelling like
+troopers," as they were, and good ones too, capturing everything in
+their way.
+
+This charge ended the fighting for that night. It was one of the most
+exciting engagements we ever had, for while the actual number engaged
+was small, and the casualties were not great, the time, the place, the
+circumstances, the darkness, the uncertainty, all combined to make "the
+midnight fight at Monterey" one of unique interest. General Custer had
+his horse shot under him which, it was said and I have reason to
+believe, was the seventh horse killed under him in that campaign. The
+force that resisted us did its duty gallantly, though it had everything
+in its favor. They knew what they had in their front, we did not. Still,
+they failed of their object, which was to save the train. That we
+captured after all. The Michigan men brushed the rear guard out of the
+way, the First Virginia gave the affair the finishing touch.
+
+The fight over, men succumbed to fatigue and drowsiness. I had barely
+touched the saddle before I was fast asleep, and did not awake until
+daylight, and then looking around, could not see a man that I recognized
+as belonging to my own troop. As far as the eye could reach, both front
+and rear, was a moving mass of horses with motionless riders all wrapped
+in slumber. The horses were moving along with drooping heads and eyes
+half-closed. Some walked faster than others and, as a consequence, would
+gradually pull away from their companions through the column in front;
+others would fall back. So it came to pass that few men found themselves
+in the same society in the morning with which they started at midnight.
+As for myself, I awoke to wonder where I was and what had become of my
+men. Not one of them could I see. My horse was a fast walker, and I soon
+satisfied myself that I was in advance of my troop and, when the place
+designated for the division to bivouac was reached, dismounted and
+awaited their arrival. Some of them did not come up for an hour, and
+they were scattered about among other commands, in squads, a few in a
+place. It was seven o'clock before we were all together once more.
+
+Then we had breakfast, and the men had a chance to look the captures
+over and quiz the prisoners. The wagons were soon despoiled of their
+contents and such stuff as was not valuable or could not be transported
+was burned. Among the prisoners was Colonel Davis, of the Tenth Virginia
+cavalry, who claimed that he led the charge against our position on the
+third. He expressed himself very freely as having had enough, and said,
+"This useless war ought to be ended at once."
+
+During the day Stuart's cavalry appeared on our flank and we pushed on
+to Cavetown, thence to Boonsborough, harassed all the way by the enemy.
+We were now directly on Lee's path to the Potomac. At Smithburg there
+was quite a skirmish in which the Sixth had the duty of supporting the
+battery. My troop, deployed as skirmishers along the top of a rocky
+ridge, was forgotten when the division moved away after dark, and we lay
+there for an hour within sight of the confederate camp until, suspecting
+something wrong, I made a reconnoissance and discovered that our
+command had gone. I therefore mounted the men and followed the trail
+which led toward Boonsborough. At the latter place Kilpatrick turned
+over his prisoners and captured property.
+
+On the 6th, along in the afternoon, we arrived in the vicinity of
+Hagerstown. The road we were on enters the town at right angles with the
+pike from Hagerstown to Williamsport, on reaching which we turned to the
+left, the position being something like the following diagram:
+
+            North
+           Hagerstown
+
+
+
+                                     Boonsborough
+                                        East
+   Williamsport
+   South
+
+Lee's reserve wagon trains were at Williamsport under General Imboden.
+From Hagerstown to Williamsport was about five miles. We had Stuart's
+cavalry in our front, Lee's whole army on our right, and only five miles
+to our left the tempting prize which Kilpatrick was eager to seize.
+Besides, it was necessary for Lee to reach Williamsport in order to
+secure a crossing of the Potomac river.
+
+The advance of his army reached Hagerstown simultaneously with
+ourselves, but the skirmishers of the First brigade drove them back to
+the northward, and then the Michigan brigade passed through and turned
+southward on the pike toward Williamsport. The Fifth Michigan had the
+advance and the Sixth the rear. The latter regiment had hardly more than
+turned in the new direction when the boom of a cannon in front told the
+story that the battle had begun.
+
+General Kilpatrick had been attending to matters in Hagerstown. It was
+evident that there was considerable force there and that it was
+constantly augmenting. The opening gun at Williamsport called his
+attention to a new danger. It looked as though he had deliberately
+walked into a trap. In a moment I saw him coming, dashing along the
+flank of the column. He was urging his horse to its utmost speed. In his
+hand he held a small riding whip with which he was touching the flank of
+his charger as he rode. His face was pale. His eyes were gazing fixedly
+to the front and he looked neither to the right nor to the left. The
+look of anxiety on his countenance was apparent. The sound of cannon
+grew louder and more frequent; we were rushed rapidly to the front. The
+First brigade followed and to the officer in command of it was assigned
+the task of holding back Lee's army while the Michigan brigade tried
+titles with Imboden. Buford, with the First cavalry division, was
+fighting Stuart's cavalry to the left, towards Boonsborough, and on him
+it depended to keep open the only avenue of escape from the position
+in which Kilpatrick found himself.
+
+[Illustration: AARON CONE JEWETT]
+
+In a little time the two brigades were fighting back to back, one facing
+north and the other south, and each having more than it could attend to.
+
+Pretty soon we arrived on the bluff overlooking Williamsport. Imboden's
+artillery had the exact range and were pouring shell into the position
+where the brigade was trying to form.
+
+Just before arriving at the point where we were ordered to turn to the
+right through an opening in a rail fence, into a field, Aaron C. Jewett,
+acting adjutant of the regiment, rode along the column delivering the
+order from the colonel. During the Gettysburg campaign Jewett had been
+acting adjutant and would have received his commission in a short time.
+His modest demeanor and affable manners had won the hearts of all his
+comrades. He had made himself exceedingly popular, as well as useful,
+and was greatly beloved in the regiment. When he delivered the order the
+pallor of his countenance was noticeable. There was no tremor, no
+shrinking, no indication of fear; he was intent upon performing his
+duty; gave the order and, turning, galloped back to where the shells
+were flying thick and fast. When I arrived at the gap in the fence he
+was there; he led the way into the field; told me where to go in; there
+was no trepidation on his part but still that deathly pallor. As we
+passed into the field a shell exploded directly in front of us. It took
+a leg off a man in troop H which preceded us and had dismounted to fight
+on foot, and I saw him hopping around on his one remaining limb and
+heard him shriek with pain. A fragment of the same shell took a piece
+off the rim of Lieutenant E.L. Craw's hat. He was riding at my side. I
+believe it was the same shell that killed Jewett. He had left me to
+direct the next troop in order, and a fragment of one of these shells
+struck him in the throat and killed him instantly. As I moved rapidly
+forward after getting into the field I did not see him again, and did
+not know he was killed until after dark, when we had succeeded in making
+our escape by a very narrow chance.
+
+We were moved well over to the right--all the time under a furious fire
+of artillery--and kept there until almost dark, fighting all the time
+with the troops that were pushed out from Williamsport. In the meantime,
+the firing and yelling in rear could be heard distinctly and it seemed
+that at any moment the little force was to be closed in on and captured.
+Finally, just after dark, it was withdrawn. Those on the right of the
+road--the First and Sixth--the Fifth and Seventh being to the left, were
+obliged to reach and cross the pike to make their escape. Weber
+stealthily withdrew the battalion. He was the last man to leave the
+field. When we were forming in the road, after rallying the skirmishers,
+the enemy was in plain sight only a little way toward Hagerstown and it
+seemed as if one could throw a stone and hit them. We expected they
+would charge us, but they did not, and probably the growing darkness
+prevented it. In fact, there was manifest a disposition on their part to
+let us alone if we would not molest them.
+
+We then marched off into a piece of woods and, the regiment having all
+reunited, learned--those who had not known of it before--of Jewett's
+death. His body was still where it fell. The suggestion was made to go
+and recover it. Weber and his men made an attempt to do so, but by that
+time the enemy had come up and taken possession of the field. This was a
+terrible blow to all, to be obliged to leave the body of a beloved
+comrade; to be denied the privilege of aiding in placing him in a
+soldier's grave, and performing the last offices of affection for a
+fallen friend.
+
+The death of Jewett was a blow to the regiment the more severe because
+he was the first officer killed up to that time. A portion of the
+regiment had been roughly handled on the evening of July 2, at
+Hunterstown--where Thompson and Ballard were wounded--and the latter
+taken prisoner. A number of the rank and file were in the list of
+killed, wounded and missing. Enough had been seen of war to bring to all
+a realization of its horrors. Death was a familiar figure, yet Jewett's
+position as adjutant had brought him into close relations with both
+officers and men and his sudden death was felt as a personal
+bereavement. It was like coming into the home and taking one of the best
+beloved of the household.
+
+After getting out of the Williamsport affair most of the night was taken
+up in marching and on the morning of the 7th, the brigade was back in
+Boonsborough where, remaining in camp all day, it obtained a much needed
+rest, though the Fourth of July rain storm was repeated. Lee's army had
+reached the Potomac, and not being able to cross by reason of the high
+water, was entrenching on the north side. Meade's army was concentrating
+in the vicinity but seemed in no hurry about it. During the day some
+heavy siege guns, coming down the mountain road, passed through
+Boonsborough going to the front. A big battle was expected to begin at
+any moment, and we wondered why there was so much deliberation, when
+Lee's army was apparently in a trap with a swollen river behind it. It
+did not seem possible that he would be permitted to escape into Virginia
+without fighting a battle. To the cavalry of Kilpatrick's division,
+which had been marching and countermarching over all the country between
+the South mountain and the Potomac river, the delay was inexplicable.
+Every trooper believed that the Army of the Potomac had the confederacy
+by the throat, at last, and that vigorous and persistent effort would
+speedily crush the life out of it.
+
+But no battle took place and, on the morning of the 8th, Stuart's
+cavalry which was now covering Lee's front, was attacked in front of
+Boonsborough by Buford and Kilpatrick, and a hard battle resulted. Most
+of the fighting was done dismounted, the commands being deployed as
+skirmishers. Custer's brigade occupied the extreme left of the line, and
+I think the Sixth the left of the brigade. The enemy was also on foot,
+though many mounted officers could be seen on their line. We had here a
+good opportunity to test the qualities of the Spencer carbines and,
+armed as we were, we proved more than a match for any force that was
+encountered. The firing was very sharp at times, and took on the
+character of skirmishing, the men taking advantage of every cover that
+presented itself. The confederates were behind a stone fence, we in a
+piece of woods along a rail fence, which ran along the edge of the
+timber. Between was an open field. Several times they attempted to come
+over the stone wall, and advance on our position, but each time were
+driven back. Once an officer jumped up on the fence and tried to wave
+his men forward. A shot from a Spencer brought him headlong to the
+ground, and after that no one had the temerity to expose himself in that
+way.
+
+At this stage of the battle (it must have been about eleven o'clock in
+the forenoon) a singular thing happened. It is one of those numberless
+incidents that do not appear in official reports, and which give to
+individual reminiscences their unique interest.
+
+An officer, dressed in blue, with the regulation cavalry hat, riding a
+bay horse which had the look of a thoroughbred, rode along in rear of
+our line with an air of authority, and with perfect coolness said, as he
+passed from right to left, "General Kilpatrick orders that the line
+fall back rapidly." The order was obeyed promptly, though it struck us
+as strange that such a strong position should be given up without a
+struggle. We had not been under Kilpatrick long enough to recognize all
+the members of his staff on sight, and it did not occur to any one at
+the time to question the fellow's authority or make him show his
+credentials.
+
+The line left the woods and retreated to a good defensive position on a
+ridge of high ground facing the woods, the enemy meantime advancing with
+a yell to the timber we had abandoned. Then it was learned that
+Kilpatrick had given no such order, but the "staff officer" had
+disappeared and, when we came to think about it, nobody could describe
+him very closely. He had seemed to flit along the line, giving the order
+but stopping nowhere, and leaving no very clear idea as to how he
+looked. There is but little doubt that he was an audacious confederate,
+probably one of Stuart's scouts clothed in federal uniform, who made a
+thorough tour of inspection of our line, and then, after seeing us fall
+back, very likely led his own line to the position which he secured by
+this daring stratagem. The confederates were up to such tricks, and
+occasionally the yankees were smart enough to give them a Roland for
+their Oliver.
+
+It was presently necessary to advance and drive the enemy out of the
+woods, which was done in gallant style, the whole line joining. This
+time there was no stopping, but the pursuit was kept up for several
+miles. I can hear gallant Weber's voice now, as he shouted, "Forward,
+my men," and leaping to the front led them in the charge.
+
+The Fifth Michigan was to our right, and Colonel Alger who was in
+command was wounded in the leg and had to leave the field. We did not
+see him again for some time, the command devolving upon Lieutenant
+Colonel Gould who, in turn, was himself wounded a day or two later, and
+Major Luther S. Trowbridge, who did such gallant fighting at Gettysburg,
+succeeded to the command.
+
+From the night of the 8th to the morning of the 11th there was an
+interval of quietude. The cavalry was waiting and watching for Lee or
+Meade to do something and, to the credit of the union troopers, it must
+be said that they were eager for the conflict to begin believing, as
+they did, that the war ought to end in a day.
+
+July 11, early in the morning, an attack was made on the lines around
+Hagerstown, which developed a hornets' nest of sharpshooters armed with
+telescopic rifles, who could pick a man's ear off half-a-mile away. The
+bullets from their guns had a peculiar sound, something like the buzz of
+a bumble-bee, and the troopers' horses would stop, prick up their ears
+and gaze in the direction whence the hum of those invisible messengers
+could be heard. Unable to reach them mounted, we finally deployed
+dismounted along a staked rail fence. The confederates were behind trees
+and shocks of grain, at least half-a-mile away. They would get the
+range so accurately that it was dangerous to stand still a moment. It
+was possible, however, to dodge the bullets by observing the puffs of
+smoke from their guns. The distance was so great that the puff was seen
+some seconds before the report was heard, and before the arrival of the
+leaden missile. By moving to the right or left the shot could be
+avoided, which in many cases was so accurately aimed as to have been
+fatal, had it been awaited. Once I was slow about moving. The scamp in
+my immediate front had evidently singled me out and was sending them in
+so close as to make it sure that he was taking deadly aim. I took my eye
+off his natural fortress for an instant, when he fired, and before I
+could jump, the ball struck a rail in front of me, and passing through
+the rail, fell to the ground at my feet.
+
+Most of the men were content to keep behind the fence and try and give
+the confederates as good as they sent, aiming at the points whence the
+puffs of smoke came. But there was one daring fellow, Halleck by name,
+who climbed over the fence and amused himself shelling and eating the
+wheat while he dodged the bullets. So keen an eye did he keep out for
+the danger, that he escaped without a scratch. While he was there a man
+named Mattoon, a good soldier, came up, and seeing Halleck, jumped over
+with the exclamation, "What are you doing here?" "Just wait a minute and
+you will see," said Halleck. Mattoon was a fat, chubby fellow, and in
+just about "a minute" a bullet struck him in the face, going through the
+fleshy part of the cheek and making the blood spout. "I told you so,"
+said Halleck, who kept on eating wheat and defying the sharpshooters,
+who were unable to hit him, though he was a conspicuous target. The
+secret of it was he did not stand still, but kept moving, and they had
+to hit him, if at all, like a bird on the wing which at the distance was
+a hard shot to make.
+
+The entire day was passed in this kind of skirmishing, and it was both
+dangerous and exciting. The men had lots of fun out of it, and only a
+few of them were shot, though there were many narrow escapes.
+
+On the morning of July 14, the Third cavalry division marched over the
+Hagerstown pike, into Williamsport. There was no enemy there. Lee had
+given Meade the slip. His army was across the Potomac, in Virginia once
+more, safe from pursuit. As he reined up his faithful steed upon the
+northern bank of the broad river, the union trooper looked wistfully at
+the country beyond. Well he knew that Lee had escaped, like a bird from
+the snare, and could march leisurely back to his strongholds. Visions of
+the swamps of the Chickahominy, of Bull Run, of Fredericksburg, of
+Chancellorsville, passed before his mind as with pensive thought he
+gazed upon the shining valley of the Shenandoah, stretching away to the
+southward in mellow perspective. He wondered how long the two armies
+were to continue the work of alternately chasing each other back and
+forth across this battle-ground of the republic. The wide, majestic
+river, no longer vexed by the splashing tread of passing squadrons, with
+smooth and tranquil flow swept serenely along, the liquid notes of its
+rippling eddies seeming to mock at the disappointment of the baffled
+pursuer. The calm serenity of the scene was in sharp contrast with the
+stormy passions of the men who sought to disturb it with the stern
+fatalities of war. The valley, rich with golden harvests, presented a
+charming dissolving view, melting away in the dim distance. On the left,
+the smoky summits of the Blue mountains marked the eastern limits of
+this "storehouse of the confederacy," the whole forming a picture in
+which beauty and grandeur were strikingly blended.
+
+But this reverie of the soldier was soon rudely disturbed. Word came
+that they were not all across after all. Five miles below, at Falling
+Waters, in a bend of the river, was a ford where a portion of
+Longstreet's corps was yet to cross on a pontoon bridge. Kilpatrick
+started off in hot haste for Falling Waters, determined to strike the
+last blow on northern soil. The Sixth Michigan was in advance, two
+troops--B and F--under Major Weber, acting as advance guard. Kilpatrick
+and Custer followed Weber; then came Colonel Gray with the remainder of
+the regiment.
+
+The march from Williamsport to Falling Waters was a wild ride. For the
+whole distance the horses were spurred to a gallop. Kilpatrick was
+afraid he would not get there in time to overtake the enemy, so he
+spared neither man nor beast. The road was soft and miry, and the horses
+sank almost to their knees in the sticky mud. For this reason the column
+straggled, and it was not possible to keep a single troop closed up in
+sets of fours. At such a rapid rate the column plunged through the muddy
+roads, Weber and his little force leading.
+
+On nearing Falling Waters, the column turned to the right through a
+wood, which skirted a large cultivated field. To the right and front,
+beyond the field, was a high hill or knoll on which an earthwork had
+been thrown up. Behind the earthwork a considerable force of confederate
+infantry was seen in bivouac, evidently taking a rest, with arms
+stacked. As a matter of fact, for it will be as well to know what was
+there, though the general in command made very little note of it at the
+time, there were two brigades--an entire division--commanded by General
+Pettigrew, one of the men who participated in Pickett's charge at
+Gettysburg.
+
+On sighting this force, Custer ordered Weber to dismount his men,
+advance a line of skirmishers toward the hill and ascertain what he had
+to encounter. Kilpatrick however ordered Weber to remount and charge the
+hill. At that time no other portion of the regiment had arrived so as to
+support the charge.
+
+Weber, knowing no law for a soldier except implicit obedience to orders,
+first saw his men well closed up, then placed himself at their head and
+giving the order "Forward," emerged from the woods into the open field,
+took the trot until near the top of the slope, close to the earthworks,
+and then with a shout the little band of less than a hundred men charged
+right into the midst of ten times their number of veteran troops. The
+first onset surprised and astonished the enemy, who had mistaken Weber's
+force for a squadron of their own cavalry. The audacity of the thing
+dazed them for a minute, and for a minute only.
+
+Weber, cutting right and left with his saber, and cheering on his men,
+pierced the first line, but there could be but one result. Recovering
+from their surprise, the confederate infantry rallied, and seizing their
+arms, made short work of their daring assailants. In a few minutes, of
+the three officers in the charge, two--Weber and Bolza--lay dead on the
+field, and the other--Crawford--had his leg shattered so it had to be
+amputated.
+
+The two brave troops were more than decimated, though a considerable
+number succeeded in escaping with their lives.
+
+This charge which Kilpatrick in his official report characterized as
+"the most gallant ever made," was described by a confederate eye-witness
+who was on the hill with Pettigrew and who wrote an account of the
+affair for a southern paper several years ago, as "a charge of
+dare-devils."
+
+[Illustration: PETER A. WEBER]
+
+In the meantime, just as Weber's command was repulsed, the other
+squadrons of the regiment began to arrive, and were hurried across the
+field to the foot of the hill, and there dismounted to fight, dressing
+to the left as they successively reached the alignment and opening fire
+with their Spencers at once. But having disposed of the two mounted
+troops, the confederates filled the earthworks, and began to send a
+shower of bullets at those already formed or forming below.
+
+My troop was the fourth from the rear of the regiment, and consequently
+several preceded it on the line. When I reached the fence, along the
+side of the field next the woods, I found Lieutenant A.E. Tower, who
+since the death of Jewett had been acting adjutant, at the gap giving
+orders. He directed me to take my command across the field, and form on
+the right of that next preceding. I had ridden so rapidly that only a
+few men had kept up the pace, and the remainder were strung out for some
+distance back. But taking those that were up, and asking the adjutant to
+tell the others to follow, I dashed into the field, and soon found that
+we were the targets for the enemy on the hill, who made the air vibrant
+with the whiz of bullets. It was hot, but we made our way across without
+being hit, and reached the place where the regiment was trying to form,
+under fire of musketry from the hill, and getting badly cut up. Reining
+up my horse, I gave the order, "Dismount, to fight on foot" and,
+glancing back, saw my men coming in single file, reaching to the
+fence--probably an eighth of a mile--and the rear had not yet left the
+woods. The two leading sets of fours which alone were closed up obeyed
+the order and, dismounting to direct the alignment, I stepped in front
+of my horse, still holding the bridle rein in my right hand, when a
+minie bullet from the hill in front with a vicious thud went through my
+right foot, making what the surgeon in Washington afterwards said was
+the "prettiest wound I ever saw."
+
+I tried to stand but could not. The foot was useless. Private
+Halleck--the same who was eating wheat at Hagerstown a few days
+before--jumped to my rescue and helped me off the field.
+
+Back of our position some distance, say 500 yards, was a log house in an
+orchard. To this we directed our steps, I leaning on Halleck's shoulder,
+and hopping along on the unhurt foot. The most uncomfortable experience
+I had during the war I believe was during the passage across the open
+field to the orchard. Our backs were to the foe and the whistling
+bullets which came thick and fast all about served to accelerate our
+speed. I expected every moment to be shot in the back. One poor fellow,
+already wounded, who was trying to run to the rear, was making
+diagonally across the field from the right. As he was about to pass us a
+bullet struck him and he fell dead in his tracks. Halleck succeeded in
+getting to the house, where he left me with the remark: "You are all
+right now, captain, the boys need me and I will go back on the line."
+And back he went into the thickest of it, and fought gallantly to the
+end of the engagement, as I learned by inquiry afterwards.
+
+After a little, the confederates drove our line back beyond the house,
+and it was, for perhaps an hour, on the neutral ground between friends
+and foes. Shells from the opposing batteries hurtled around, and I did
+not know what moment one of them would come crashing through the
+building. A hospital flag had been displayed above it, which saved it.
+
+Finally, sufficient force arrived to give our people the best of it, and
+the enemy was driven in confusion to the river, losing about 1,500
+prisoners, one or two pieces of artillery and many small arms. General
+Pettigrew was killed by Weber or one of his men. Until the battle was
+over I did not know what fearful losses had befallen the regiment. The
+total casualties were 33 killed and 56 wounded. The loss in officers was
+heavy: Major Weber, killed; Lieutenant Bolza, commanding troop B,
+killed; Lieutenant Potter, troop C, wounded and prisoner; Captain Royce,
+troop D, killed; Captain Kidd, troop E, wounded; Lieutenant Crawford,
+troop F, lost a leg; Lieutenant Kellogg, troop H, wounded and a
+prisoner.
+
+The story of "The Michigan Cavalry Brigade in the Gettysburg Campaign,"
+properly ends with the death of General Pettigrew and Major Weber at
+Falling Waters. No more brilliant passage at arms took place during the
+war for the union, and it is a pity that some more able historian could
+not have written the story and immortalized the men, both dead and
+living who had a part in it.[15]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII
+
+FROM FALLING WATERS TO BUCKLAND MILLS
+
+
+The night following the battle of Falling Waters, July 14, 1863, was a
+memorable one to the Michigan cavalry brigade, especially to those who
+like myself passed it in the field hospital. The log house into which
+the wounded were taken was filled with maimed and dying soldiers,
+dressed in union blue. The entire medical staff of the division had its
+hands full caring for the sufferers. Many were brought in and subjected
+to surgical treatment only to die in the operation, or soon thereafter.
+Probes were thrust into gaping wounds in search of the deadly missiles,
+or to trace the course of the injury. Bandages and lint were applied to
+stop the flow of blood. Splintered bones were removed and shattered
+limbs amputated. All night long my ears were filled with the groans
+wrung from stout hearts by the agonies of pain, and the moans of the
+mortally hurt as their lives ebbed slowly away. One poor fellow,
+belonging to the First Michigan cavalry, was in the same room with me.
+He had a gun-shot wound in the bowels. It was fatal, and he knew it, for
+the surgeon had done his duty and told him the truth. He was a manly and
+robust young soldier who but a few hours before had been the picture of
+health, going into battle without a tremor and receiving his death wound
+like a hero. For hours, I watched and wondered at the fortitude with
+which he faced his fate. Not a murmur of complaint passed his lips.
+Racked with pain and conscious that but a few hours of life remained to
+him, he talked as placidly about his wound, his condition and his coming
+dissolution, as though conversing about something of common, everyday
+concern. He was more solicitous about others than about himself, and
+passed away literally like one "who wraps the drapery of his couch about
+him and lies down to pleasant dreams." He died about three o'clock in
+the morning and I could almost feel the reality of the flight of his
+tranquil spirit.
+
+In striking contrast to the picture thus presented, was one in the room
+adjoining. Another trooper also fatally wounded, suffered so keenly from
+shock and pain that his fortitude gave way. He could not bear the
+thought of death. His nerve appeared to have deserted him and his
+anguish of mind and body, as he saw the relentless approach of the grim
+monster and felt his icy breath, will haunt my memory till I myself
+shall have joined the great army of union veterans who are beyond the
+reach of pain and the need of pensions.
+
+My own wound gave little annoyance except when the surgeon ran an iron
+called a probe into it, which attempt met with so vigorous a protest
+from his patient that he desisted and that form of treatment stopped
+right there, so far as one cavalryman was concerned. The wound was well
+bandaged and plentiful applications of cold water kept out the
+inflammation.
+
+Many of the officers and men came in to express their sympathy. Some of
+them entertained me with the usual mock congratulations on having won a
+"leave" and affected to regard me as a lucky fellow while they were the
+real objects of sympathy.
+
+But the circumstances were such as to repress mirth or anything of that
+semblance. The regiment was in mourning for its bravest and best. The
+Sixth, having been the first regiment to get into the fight, had
+suffered more severely than any other. The losses had been grievous, and
+it seemed hard that so many bright lights of our little family should be
+so suddenly extinguished.
+
+At daylight I was still wide awake but, even amidst such scenes as I
+have described, fatigue finally overcame me and I sank into dreamland
+only to be startled, at first, by the fancied notes of the bugle
+sounding "to horse" or the shouts of horsemen engaged in the fray. At
+last, however, "tired nature's sweet restorer" came to my relief and I
+fell into a dreamless sleep that lasted for several hours.
+
+When I awoke it was with a delightful sense of mind and body rested and
+restored. The wounded foot had ceased its pain. A gentle hand was
+bathing my face with cold water from the well, while another was
+straightening out the tangled locks which, to tell the truth, were
+somewhat unkempt and overgrown from enforced neglect. Two ladies full of
+sympathy for the youthful soldier were thus kindly ministering to his
+comfort. As soon as fully awake to his surroundings, he opened his eyes
+and turned them with what was meant for a look of gratitude upon the
+fair friends who seemed like visiting angels in that place of misery and
+death.
+
+It was an incongruous picture that presented itself--a strange blending
+of the grewsome sights of war with the beautiful environments of peace.
+The wonted tranquility of this rural household had been rudely disturbed
+by the sudden clangor of arms. A terrible storm of battle--the more
+terrible because unforeseen--had broken in upon the quietude of their
+home. In the early hours of the morning it had raged all around them. At
+the first sound of its approach the terrified inmates fled to the cellar
+where they remained till it passed. They had come forth to find their
+house turned into a hospital.
+
+The kindness of those ladies is something that the union trooper has
+never forgotten, for they flitted across his pathway, a transient vision
+of gentleness and mercy in that scene of carnage and suffering.
+
+It was with a melancholy interest that I gazed upon the pallid face of
+my dead comrade of the First, who lay, a peaceful smile upon his
+features which were bathed in a flood of golden light, as the hot rays
+of the July sun penetrated the apartment. The man in the hall was also
+dead. Others of the wounded were lying on their improvised couches, as
+comfortable as they could be made.
+
+In the afternoon the ambulance train arrived. The wounded were loaded
+therein, and started for Hagerstown, bidding farewell to those who
+remained on duty, and who had already received marching orders which
+would take them back into "Old Virginia."
+
+The journey to Hagerstown was by way of Williamsport and the same pike
+we had marched over on the 6th of the month when Jewett was killed, and
+on the morning of the 14th when Weber was riding to "one more saber
+charge" at Falling Waters.
+
+Nothing is more depressing than to pass over ground where a battle has
+recently been fought. Any veteran will say that he prefers the advance
+to the retreat--the front to the rear of an army. The true soldier would
+rather be on the skirmish-line than in the hospital or among the trains.
+Men who can face the cannon's mouth without flinching, shrink from the
+surgeon's knife and the amputating-table. The excitement, the noise, the
+bugle's note and beat of drum, the roar of artillery, the shriek of
+shell, the volley of musketry, the "zip" of bullet or "ping" of spent
+ball, the orderly movement of masses of men, the shouting of orders, the
+waving of battle-flags--all these things inflame the imagination, stir
+the blood, and stimulate men to heroic actions. Above all, the
+consciousness that the eyes of comrades are upon him, puts a man upon
+his mettle and upon his pride, and compels him oftentimes to simulate a
+contempt for danger which he does not feel. The senses are too, in some
+sort, deadened to the hazards of the scene and, in battle, one finds
+himself doing with resolute will things which under normal conditions
+would fill him with abhorrence.
+
+Men fight from mingled motives. Pride, the fear of disgrace, ambition,
+the sense of duty--all contribute to keep the courage up to the sticking
+point. Few fight because they like it. The bravest are those who, fully
+alive to the danger, are possessed of that sublime moral heroism which
+sustains them in emergencies that daunt weaker men.
+
+But, when the excitement is over, when the pomp and circumstance are
+eliminated, when the unnatural ardor has subsided, when the tumult and
+rush have passed, leaving behind only the dismal effects--the ruin and
+desolation, the mangled corpses of the killed, the saddening spectacle
+of the dying, the sufferings of the wounded--the bravest would, if he
+could, blot these things from his sight and from his memory.
+
+The night in the field hospital at Falling Waters did more to put out
+the fires of my military spirit and to quench my martial ambition than
+did all the experiences of Hunterstown and Gettysburg, of Boonsborough
+and Williamsport. And, as the ambulance train laden with wounded wound
+its tortuous way through the theater of many a bloody recent
+rencounter, it set in motion a train of reflections which were by no
+means pleasing. The abandoned arms and accouterments; the debris of
+broken-down army wagons; the wrecks of caissons and gun-carriages; the
+bloated carcasses of once proud and sleek cavalry chargers; the mounds
+showing where the earth had been hastily shoveled over the forms of late
+companions-in-arms; everything was suggestive of the desolation, nothing
+of the glory, of war.
+
+It was nearly dark when the long train of ambulances halted in the
+streets of Hagerstown. Some large buildings had been taken for hospitals
+and the wounded were being placed therein as the ambulances successively
+arrived. This consumed much time and, while waiting for the forward
+wagons to be unloaded, it occurred to me that it would be a nice thing
+to obtain quarters in a private house. Barnhart, first sergeant of the
+troop, who accompanied me, proposed to make inquiry at once, and ran up
+the stone steps of a comfortable-looking brick house opposite the
+ambulance and rang the bell. In a moment the door opened and a pleasant
+voice inquired what was wanted.
+
+"A wounded officer in the ambulance yonder wants to know if you will
+take him in for a day or two until he can get ordered to Washington. He
+has funds to recompense you and does not like to go to the hospital."
+
+"Certainly," replied the voice, "bring him in."
+
+And Barnhart, taking me in his arms, carried me into the house and,
+guided to the second floor by the same lady who had met him at the
+door, deposited his burden on a couch in a well furnished apartment and
+we were bidden to make ourselves at home.
+
+In a little while, a nice hot supper of tea, toast, eggs and beefsteak,
+enough for both, was brought to the room by our hospitable hostess, who
+seemed to take the greatest pleasure in serving her guests with her own
+hands. Later in the evening, she called with her husband and they
+formally introduced themselves. They were young married people with one
+child, a beautiful little girl of six or eight summers. He was a
+merchant and kept a store in an adjoining building. They spent the
+evening in the room, chatting of the stirring events of the month and,
+indeed, their experiences had been scarcely less exciting than our own.
+Hagerstown had been right in the whirl of the battle-storm which had
+been raging in Maryland. Both armies had passed through its streets and
+bivouacked in its environs. More than once the opposing forces had
+contended for possession of the town. Twice the union cavalry had
+charged in and driven the confederates out, and once had been forced,
+themselves, to vacate in a hurry. It was almost inside its limits that
+Captain Snyder, of the First Michigan cavalry, serving on Kilpatrick's
+staff, had with the saber fought single-handed five confederate horsemen
+and he was lying wounded mortally in a neighboring building. Our kind
+host and hostess entertained us until a late hour with interesting
+recitals of what they had seen from the inside or "between the lines."
+
+That night after a refreshing bath, with head pillowed in down, I stowed
+myself away between snowy sheets for a dreamless sleep that lasted until
+the sun was high up in the eastern heavens. Barnhart was already astir
+and soon brought a surgeon to diagnose the case and decide what
+disposition should be made of the patient. Then the L--s and their
+little daughter came in with a cheery "good morning" and a steaming
+breakfast of coffee, cakes and other things fragrant enough and tempting
+enough to tickle the senses of an epicure. And, not content with
+providing the best of what the house afforded, Mr. L. brought in the
+choicest of cigars by the handful, insisting on my finding solace in the
+fumes of the fragrant weed.
+
+"Do not be afraid to smoke in your room," said the sunny Mrs. L., "my
+husband smokes and I am not the least bit afraid that it will harm the
+furnishings."
+
+I glanced with a deprecatory gesture at the lace curtains and other rich
+furniture of the room, as much as to say, "Could not think of it," and
+in fact, before lighting a cigar, I took a seat by the open window where
+I sat and puffed the blue smoke into the bluer atmosphere, beguiling the
+time the while, talking with these good friends about the war.
+
+That was the very poetry of a soldier's life. For the better part of a
+week the two cavalrymen were the guests of that hospitable family who,
+at the last, declined to receive any remuneration for their kindness.
+
+The journey to Washington was by rail. In the cars groups of interested
+citizens, and soldiers as well, questioned us eagerly for the latest
+news from the front, and our tongues were kept busy answering a steady
+fire of questions. No incident of the campaign was too trivial to find
+willing ears to listen when it was told. The operations of Kilpatrick's
+division seemed to be well known and there was much complimentary
+comment upon his energy and his dash. The name of Custer, "the boy
+general," was seemingly on every tongue and there was no disposition on
+our part to conceal the fact that we had been with them.
+
+Arriving at the capital in the middle of the day, we were driven to the
+Washington house, at the corner of Pennsylvania avenue and
+Four-and-one-half street, where a room was engaged and preparations were
+made to remain until the surgeon would say it was safe to start for
+home.
+
+[Illustration: CHARLES E. STORRS]
+
+The Washington house was a hotel of the second class but many nice
+people stopped there. Among the regular guests was Senator Henry Wilson,
+of Massachusetts, afterwards elected vice-president on the ticket with
+Grant. He was a very modest man, plain in dress and unassuming in
+manner. No one would have suspected from his bearing that he was a
+senator and from the great commonwealth of Massachusetts. The colleague
+of Charles Sumner, Henry Wilson was at that time one of the ablest, most
+widely-known and influential statesmen of his day. Conspicuous among
+the anti-slavery leaders of New England, his voice always had been heard
+in defense of human rights. His loyalty to the union was equaled only by
+his devotion to the interests of the soldiers. He lived a quiet,
+unostentatious life, at the hotel, where his well-known face and figure
+could be seen when the senate was not in session. He was a man of strong
+mentality, of sturdy frame and marked individuality. As chairman of the
+committee on military affairs he had been able to make himself extremely
+useful to the government in the prosecution of the war, and the soldiers
+found in him always a friend. He was very agreeable and companionable,
+and did not hold himself aloof from the common herd, as smaller men in
+his position might have done. He was seen often chatting with other
+guests of the house, when they were gathered in the parlors, after or
+awaiting meals. Once, I met him at an impromptu dancing party, and he
+entered into the amusement with the zest of youth.
+
+A month in Washington, and a surgeon's certificate secured the necessary
+"leave" when, accompanied by Lieutenant C.E. Storrs of troop "B," who
+had been severely wounded in one of the engagements in Virginia, after
+Falling Waters, I started by the Pennsylvania line, for the old home in
+Michigan, stopping a couple of days, en route, at Altoona, to breathe
+the fresh mountain air.
+
+Resuming the journey, we reached Pittsburg, to be met at the station by
+a committee stationed there for the purpose of looking out for the
+comfort of all soldiers who passed through the city, either going or
+coming. We were conducted to a commodious dining hall, where a free
+dinner, cooked and served by the fair hands of the patriotic ladies of
+the "Smoky City," was furnished. It was an experience which left in our
+minds a most grateful appreciation of the noble spirit that actuated the
+Northern women in war times.
+
+It was scarce two-thirds of a year since, as schoolboys innocent of war,
+though wearing the union blue, we had gone forth to try our mettle as
+soldiers, and it needs not to be said that there was a warm welcome home
+for the veterans fresh from one of the most memorable military campaigns
+in all the history of the world. The greetings then and there received
+were ample compensation for all that we had done and dared and suffered.
+I can never forget how kind the people were; how they gathered at the
+railroad station; how cordially they grasped us by the hand; how
+solicitous they were for our comfort; how tenderly we were nursed back
+to health and strength; how fondly an affectionate mother hung upon
+every word as we told the story of the exploits of the boys in the
+field; how generously the neighbors dropped in to offer congratulations;
+how eagerly they inquired about absent friends; how earnestly they
+discussed the prospect of ultimate victory; how deep and abiding was
+their faith in the justice of the cause and in the ability of the
+government to maintain the union; and how determined that nothing must
+be held back that was needed to accomplish that result. For some days
+there was a regular levee beneath my father's roof and the good people
+of the town gave the union soldier much cause to remember them with
+gratitude as long as he lives.
+
+Only in a single instance was anything said that seemed obnoxious to a
+nice sense of propriety, or that marred the harmony of an almost
+universally expressed sentiment of patriotic approval of what was doing
+to preserve the life of the nation--a sentiment in which partisanism or
+party politics cut no figure whatever. One caller had the bad taste to
+indulge in severe and unfriendly criticism of "Old Abe," as he called
+the president. That was going too far and I defended Mr. Lincoln against
+his animadversions with all the warmth, if not the eloquence, of the
+experienced advocate--certainly with the earnestness born of a sincere
+admiration for Abraham Lincoln and love of his noble traits of
+character, his single-hearted devotion to his country. I had seen him in
+Washington weighed down with a tremendous load of responsibility such as
+few men could have endured. I had noted as I grasped his hand the
+terrible strain under which he seemed to be suffering; the appearance of
+weariness which he brought with him to the interview; the pale, anxious
+cast of his countenance; the piteous, far-away look of his eyes; and by
+all these tokens he said, as plainly as if he had put it into words;
+"Love and solicitude for my country are slowly, but surely, wearing away
+my life." I saw shining through his homely features the spirit of one of
+the grandest, noblest, most lovable of the characters who have been
+brought by the exigencies of fate to the head of human affairs. The
+soldiers loved him and they idealized him. He was to them the
+personification of the union cause. The day for the discussion of
+abstract principles had long gone by. Their ideal had ceased to be an
+impersonal one. All the hope, the faith, the patriotism of the soldiers
+centered around the personality of the president. In their eyes and
+thoughts, he stood for the idea of nationality, as Luther stood for
+religious liberty, Cromwell for parliamentary privilege, or Washington
+for colonial independence. To blame him, was to censure the boys in blue
+and the cause for which they fought. No man whose heart was not wholly
+with the Northern armies in the struggle, could rise to an appreciation
+of the character of Lincoln.
+
+But the great heart of the North never ceased to beat in harmony with
+the music of the union. The exceptions to the rule were so rare as to
+scarcely merit notice. The "copperheads" and "knights of the golden
+circle" will hardly cut so much of a figure in history as do the tories
+of the Revolution.
+
+On the 11th day of October, 1863, after an absence of three months
+duration, during which time I had been commissioned major to fill the
+vacancy caused by the death of Weber, I took passage at Washington on a
+ramshackle train over the Orange and Alexandria railroad to go to the
+front again. Storrs, whose wound had healed, joined me and we made the
+journey together.
+
+The train reached Bealton Station, north of the Rappahannock river, a
+little before dark. The harbingers of a retreating army were beginning
+to troop in from the front. The army of the Potomac was falling back
+toward the fastnesses of Centerville, the army of Northern Virginia in
+close pursuit. Meade, who in July was chasing Lee across the Potomac
+back into Virginia, was himself now being hurried by Lee over the
+Rappahannock. The tables had been completely turned. The pursued had
+become the pursuer.
+
+As usual, the flanking process had been resorted to. Using his cavalry
+as a screen, Lee was attempting to maneuver his infantry around Meade's
+right and, after the manner of Stonewall Jackson in the Second Bull Run
+campaign of 1862, interpose between the federal army and Washington.
+
+Thanks to the vigilance of his outposts, the union commander detected
+the movement in time, and was able to thwart the strategy of his able
+adversary. Keeping his army well in hand, he retreated to Bull Run,
+Fairfax and Centerville.
+
+While this was going on, there was a series of spirited encounters
+between the union and confederate cavalry, commanded by Pleasonton and
+Stuart, respectively--the former bringing up the rear, and covering the
+retreat, the latter bold and aggressive as was his wont.
+
+These affairs, which began on the 9th, culminated on the 11th in one of
+the most exciting, if not brilliant, engagements of the war, Kilpatrick
+taking a prominent part, second only to that performed by the heroic
+John Buford and his First cavalry division.
+
+When the movement began, on the evening of the 9th, Fitzhugh Lee was
+left to hold the line along the south bank of the Rapidan river,
+Buford's cavalry division confronting him on the north side. Stuart,
+with Hampton's division of three brigades, Hampton being still disabled
+from the wounds received at Gettysburg, spent the 10th swarming on the
+right flank of the confederate army, in the country between Madison
+Court House and Woodville on the Sperryville pike. Kilpatrick was in the
+vicinity of Culpeper Court House. Stuart succeeded not only in veiling
+the movements of the confederate army completely, but on the morning of
+the 11th, found time to concentrate his forces and attack Kilpatrick at
+Culpeper. Buford crossed the Rapidan to make a reconnoissance, and
+encountering Fitzhugh Lee, recrossed at Raccoon Ford, closely followed
+by the latter. The pursuit was kept up through Stevensburg, Buford
+retreating toward Brandy Station.
+
+When Stuart heard Fitzhugh Lee's guns, he withdrew from Kilpatrick's
+front and started across country, intending to head off the federal
+cavalry and reach Fleetwood, the high ground near the Brandy Station, in
+advance of both Buford and Kilpatrick. The latter, however, soon
+discovered what Stuart was trying to do, and then began a horse race of
+three converging columns toward Brandy Station, Stuart on the left,
+Buford followed by Fitzhugh Lee on the right, and Kilpatrick in the
+center. Buford was in first and took possession of Fleetwood. Rosser
+with one of Lee's brigades, formed facing Buford, so that when the head
+of Kilpatrick's column approached, Rosser was across its path, but
+fronting in the direction opposite to that from which it was coming.
+Kilpatrick, beset on both flanks and in rear, and seeing a force of the
+enemy in front also, and ignorant of Buford's whereabouts, formed his
+leading regiments and proceeded to charge through to where Buford was
+getting into position. This charge was led by Pleasonton, Custer and
+Kilpatrick, in person. Rosser, seeing what was coming, and caught
+between two fires, dextrously withdrew to one side, and when the rear of
+Kilpatrick's division was opposite to him, charged it on one flank while
+Stuart assaulted it on the other, and there was a general melee, in
+which each side performed prodigies of valor and inflicted severe damage
+on the other. The First and Fifth Michigan regiments were with the
+advance, while the Sixth and Seventh helped to bring up the rear.
+
+The rear of the column had the worst of it and was very roughly
+handled. The two divisions having united, Pleasonton took command and,
+bringing his artillery hurriedly into position, soon had Stuart whipped
+to a standstill.
+
+All the fighting in this battle was done on horseback, and no more
+daring work was done by either side, on any of the battle fields of the
+war, than was seen at Brandy Station. Those who were in it, describe it
+as the most stirring and picturesque scene that they ever witnessed;
+especially when the three long columns, one of blue and two of gray,
+were racing on converging lines toward the objective point on Fleetwood
+hill. It must have been a pretty picture: Buford hurrying into line to
+face to the rear; the federal batteries unlimbering and going into
+position to resist the coming attack; Rosser galloping front into line,
+to find himself attacked front and rear; Kilpatrick, with Rosser in his
+front, Fitzhugh Lee and Stuart on his flanks; detachments breaking out
+of the confederate columns to attack the flanks and rear of Kilpatrick's
+flying division; federal regiments halting and facing toward the points
+of the compass whence these attacks came; then falling back to new
+positions, stubbornly contesting every inch of ground; the fluttering of
+guidons and battle-flags, the flash of sabers and puffs of pistol
+shots--altogether a most brilliant spectacle.
+
+Stuart was kept at bay until after nightfall, when Pleasonton withdrew
+in safety across the river.
+
+It has been claimed that Brandy Station was the greatest cavalry
+engagement of the war. Sheridan, who was then still in the west, and
+consequently not "there" awards that honor to Yellow Tavern, fought the
+following season. Doubtless he was right, for the latter was a well
+planned battle in which all the movements were controlled by a single
+will. But most of the fighting at Yellow Tavern was done on foot, though
+Custer's mounted charge at the critical moment, won the day. Brandy
+Station was a battle in which all the troopers were kept in the saddle.
+It was, however, a battle with no plan, though it is conceded that
+Pleasonton handled his command with much skill after the two divisions
+had united. His artillery was particularly effective. Captain Don G.
+Lovell, of the Sixth Michigan, the senior officer present with the
+regiment, greatly distinguished himself in the difficult duty of
+guarding the rear, meeting emergencies as they arose with the
+characteristic courage and coolness which distinguished him on all
+occasions on the field of battle.
+
+The battle ended about the time our train reached Bealton, so Storrs and
+I missed the opportunity of taking part in one of the most memorable
+contests of the civil war.
+
+After a night on the platform of the railroad station, we started at
+dawn to find the brigade. From wounded stragglers the salient events of
+the previous day were learned and the inference drawn from the
+information which they were able to give was that the cavalry must be
+encamped somewhere not far away. All agreed that it was having a lively
+experience. Everything, however, was at sixes and sevens and it was only
+after a long and toilsome search, that the regimental quartermaster was
+located among the trains. My horse, equipments and arms had disappeared,
+but fortunately Storrs found his outfit intact and, having two mounts,
+he loaned me one. Selecting from the quartermaster's surplus supplies a
+government saber, revolver and belt, thus equipped and mounted on
+Storrs's horse, I rode in search of the regiment, which we ascertained
+to be in camp in the woods, some distance away from the trains.
+
+When at last found, it proved to be a sorry looking regiment, but a
+wreck and remnant of its former self. With two troops ("I" and "M")
+absent on detached service in the Shenandoah valley, the Sixth Michigan
+started in the Gettysburg campaign, June 21, with between 500 and 600
+troopers in the saddle. When Storrs and I rode into that silvan camp, on
+that bright October morning, there were less than 100 men "present for
+duty" including not a single field officer. Many of the troops were
+commanded by lieutenants, some of them by sergeants, and one had neither
+officer nor non-commissioned officer. They had been fighting, marching
+and countermarching for months, and had a jaded, dejected appearance,
+not pleasant to look upon, and very far removed indeed from the buoyant
+and hopeful air with which they entered upon the campaign. At one point,
+during the retreat of the day before, it had been necessary to leap
+the horses over a difficult ditch. Many of them fell into it, and the
+riders were overtaken by the enemy's horse before they could be
+extricated. Among these was Hobart, sergeant major, who was taken to
+Libby prison, where he remained until the next year, when he was
+exchanged.
+
+[Illustration: GEORGE A. CUSTER (ABOUT 1870)]
+
+The next thing, was to report to General Custer for duty. It was my
+first personal interview with the great cavalryman. He was at his
+headquarters, in the woods, taking life in as light-hearted a way as
+though he had not just come out of a fight, and did not expect others to
+come right along. He acted like a man who made a business of his
+profession; who went about the work of fighting battles and winning
+victories, as a railroad superintendent goes about the business of
+running trains. When in action, his whole mind was concentrated on the
+duty and responsibility of the moment; in camp, he was genial and
+companionable, blithe as a boy. Indeed he was a boy in years, though a
+man in courage and in discretion.
+
+After drawing rations and forage, the march was resumed and, little of
+incident that was important intervening, on the 14th the division was
+encamped on the north side of Bull Run, near the Gainesville or
+Warrenton turnpike, where we remained undisturbed until the evening of
+the 18th, when the forward movement began which culminated on the 19th
+in the battle of Buckland Mills, which will be the theme of the next
+chapter.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV
+
+THE BATTLE OF BUCKLAND MILLS
+
+
+Buckland Mills was, in some sort, a sequel to Brandy Station. The latter
+battle was a brilliant passage at arms, in which neither side obtained a
+decisive advantage. Kilpatrick was still pugnacious and both willing and
+anxious to meet Stuart again. That his mind was full of the subject was
+evinced by a remark he was heard to make one morning at his headquarters
+on the Bull Run battle ground. He was quartered in a house, his host a
+Virginian too old to be in the army, and who remained at home to look
+after the property. It was a clear day, and when the general came out on
+the porch, the old gentleman accosted him with a cheery:
+
+"A fine day, general!"
+
+"Yes, a--fine day for a fight;" was the instant reply.
+
+In most men this would have sounded like gasconade. In Kilpatrick's
+case, it was not so considered. He was credited with plenty of pluck,
+and it was well understood that he was no sooner out of one action, than
+he was planning to get into another. He ran into one, a day or two
+later, which furnished him all the entertainment of that kind that he
+wanted, and more too.
+
+Reconnoissances across Bull Run on the Gainesville road disclosed a
+considerable force of mounted confederates. When their pickets were
+driven in by the Sixth Michigan on the 15th and again by the First
+Michigan on the 16th strong reserves were revealed. As a matter of fact,
+Stuart was at Buckland Mills with Hampton's division, and Fitzhugh Lee
+was at or near Auburn, but a few miles away. They had their heads
+together and devised a trap for Kilpatrick, into which he rode with his
+eyes shut.
+
+Sunday evening, October 18, the Third division moved out across Bull
+Run, Kilpatrick in command, Custer's brigade leading, Davies[16] with
+the First brigade bringing up the rear. Stuart's cavalry was attacked
+and driven rapidly until dark by the First Vermont cavalry[17] under
+Lieutenant Colonel Addison W. Preston, acting as advance guard. Early on
+Monday morning, October 19, the march was resumed, the Sixth Michigan in
+advance.
+
+About midway between Bull Run and Broad Run the confederate rear guard,
+a regiment of Young's brigade of Hampton's division, was encountered
+which fell back before the advance of the Sixth Michigan making but
+slight resistance and retreating across Broad Run, where it was found
+that Stuart had taken up a strong position, forming the three brigades
+of Gordon, Rosser and Young in line on the opposite side, as if to
+contest the crossing.
+
+The stream was deep and difficult, spanned at the pike by a stone
+bridge. Its banks were wooded. Stuart stationed a piece of artillery on
+the high ground so as to command the bridge and its approaches. A
+portion of the regiment was dismounted and advanced to engage the
+dismounted confederates across the stream. Captain George R. Maxwell of
+the First Michigan, whose regiment was at the time in the rear, rode up
+and asked permission to take a carbine and go on foot with the men of
+the Sixth who were in front. The permission was granted and, giving his
+horse into the charge of an orderly, he was in a few moments justifying
+his already well established reputation as a man of courage, by fighting
+like an enlisted man, on the skirmish line of a regiment not his own,
+thus voluntarily exceeding any requirements of duty.
+
+Custer rode up with his staff and escort, and halted in the road, making
+a conspicuous group. Stuart's cannoneers planted a shell right in their
+midst, which caused a lively scattering, as they had no desire to be
+made targets of for that kind of artillery practice. Fortunately no one
+was killed.
+
+Custer then brought up his entire command and formed a line of battle,
+the Sixth Michigan in the center across the pike, the Fifth Michigan on
+the right, the Seventh Michigan on the left, the First Michigan and
+First Vermont in reserve, mounted. After a somewhat stubborn
+resistance. Stuart apparently reluctantly withdrew, permitting Custer to
+cross though he could have held the position easily against ten times
+his number whereas, as the sequel proved, he greatly outnumbered
+Kilpatrick. The Seventh crossed at a ford about a mile below, the other
+regiments at the bridge. Stuart retreated toward Warrenton. It was then
+about noon, perhaps a little later than that. Kilpatrick came up and
+ordered Custer to draw in his skirmishers and allow Davies to pass him
+and take the advance. Custer massed his command on some level ground,
+behind a hill, beyond the bridge, and adjacent to the stream. Davies
+crossed the bridge, passed the Michigan brigade, and took up the pursuit
+of Stuart. Kilpatrick, with his staff, followed along the pike in rear
+of Davies's brigade. As he was moving off, Kilpatrick directed Custer to
+follow the First brigade and bring up the rear.
+
+This was the very thing that Stuart was waiting for. It had been
+arranged between him and Fitzhugh Lee that he, with his three
+brigades,[18] was to fall back without resistance before the two
+brigades of the Third division, until they were drawn well away from the
+bridge, when Lee, who was coming up from Auburn through the woods to the
+left, with the brigades of Lomax, Chambliss and Wickham and Breathed's
+battery would swing in across the pike, cut Kilpatrick off from the
+bridge, and then, at the first sound of Lee's guns, Kilpatrick was to be
+attacked simultaneously by Stuart in front and by Lee in rear, and
+thoroughly whipped.
+
+It was a very pretty bit of strategy and came very near being
+successful. The plan was neatly frustrated by one of those apparent
+accidents of war which make or unmake men, according as they are
+favorable or unfavorable.
+
+Custer respectfully but firmly demurred to moving until his men could
+have their breakfast--rather their dinner, for the forenoon was already
+spent. Neither men nor horses had had anything to eat since the night
+before, and he urged that the horses should have a feed and the men have
+an opportunity to make coffee before they were required to go farther.
+
+Custer was a fighting man, through and through, but wary and wily as
+brave. There was in him an indescribable something--call it caution,
+call it sagacity, call it the real military instinct--it may have been
+genius--by whatever name entitled, it nearly always impelled him to do
+intuitively the right thing. In this case it seemed obstinacy, if not
+insubordination. It was characteristic of him to care studiously for the
+comfort of his men. And he did not believe in wasting their lives. It is
+more than probable that there was in his mind a suspicion of the true
+state of things. If so, he did not say so, even to the general
+commanding the division. He kept his own counsel and had his way. The
+delay was finally sanctioned by Kilpatrick, and the brigade remained on
+the bank feeding their horses and making coffee, Davies meanwhile
+advancing cautiously on the Warrenton road to a point within about two
+or three miles of Warrenton. Stuart made slight if any attempt to resist
+his progress.
+
+The Gainesville-Warrenton pike, after crossing Broad Run, is bounded on
+both sides by cleared farm lands, fringed about one-third of a mile back
+by woods. From the place of Custer's halt it was not more than 500 or
+600 yards to these woods. The road runs in a westerly direction and the
+brigade was on the south side of it.
+
+There is very little of record from which to determine the time consumed
+by Custer's halt. It is a peculiar circumstance that not a single report
+of this battle made by a regimental commander in Custer's brigade
+appears in the official war records. A similar omission has been noted
+in the battle of Gettysburg. Custer made a report and so did Kilpatrick
+and Davies, but they are all deficient in details. There is no hint in
+any of them as to the duration of the delay. The confederate chronicles
+are much more complete. From them it would appear that the stop was made
+about noon and that the real battle began at 3:30 in the afternoon.
+Memory is at fault on this point for the reason that after coffee and
+while the horses were feeding I lay down upon the ground and fell
+asleep. Before that some of the men had gone into the adjacent fields
+in search of long forage. It was understood that the Seventh Michigan
+after crossing at the lower ford was scouting through the country toward
+Greenwich and there was no hint or suspicion that an enemy could
+approach from that direction without being discovered by this scouting
+party.
+
+Finally Custer was ready to move. Awakened by a staff officer I was
+directed to report to the general.
+
+"Major," said he, "take position with your regiment about 500 yards
+toward those woods remain there until the command is in column on the
+pike, then follow and bring up the rear."
+
+The order was given with a caution to be careful, as the Seventh
+Michigan had been scouting near Greenwich and might be expected to come
+in from that direction. Greenwich is almost due south from Buckland
+Mills, whereas Auburn, from which place Fitzhugh Lee was approaching,
+lay considerably west of south.
+
+The movement of the two commands began simultaneously. The Fifth
+Michigan, Pennington's battery, the First Michigan and First Vermont,
+with Custer and his staff leading, were in a few moments marching
+briskly in column on the Warrenton pike, which was not very far away
+from the starting point. The Sixth Michigan meantime proceeded in column
+of fours toward the place designated by General Custer, close up to the
+woods. Nothing had been seen or heard of Davies for some time.
+Everything was quiet. Nothing could be heard except the tramp of the
+horses' feet and the rumble of the wheels of Pennington's gun
+carriages, growing more and more indistinct as the distance increased.
+
+[Illustration: DON G. LOVELL]
+
+The Sixth had gone about 250 or 300 yards and was approaching a fence
+which divided the farm into fields, when Captain Don G. Lovell, who was
+riding by the side of the commanding officer of the regiment,[19]
+suddenly cried out:
+
+"Major, there is a mounted man in the edge of the woods yonder," at the
+same time pointing to a place directly in front and about 200 yards
+beyond the fence.
+
+Captain Lovell was one of the most dashing and intrepid officers in the
+brigade. He was always cool and never carried away with excitement under
+any circumstances. It is perhaps doubtful whether he could have
+maintained his customary imperturbability, if he had realized, at the
+moment, just what that lone picket portended.
+
+A glance in the direction indicated, revealed the truth of Captain
+Lovell's declaration but, recalling what General Custer had said, I
+replied:
+
+"The general said we might expect some mounted men of the Seventh from
+that direction."
+
+"But that vidette is a rebel," retorted Lovell, "he is dressed in gray."
+
+"It can't be possible," was the insistent reply, and the column kept on
+moving.
+
+Just then, the man in the woods began to ride his horse in a circle.
+
+"Look at that," said Lovell; "that is a rebel signal; our men don't do
+that."
+
+The truth of the inference was too evident to be disputed. Things were
+beginning to look suspicious, and in another instant all doubt, if any
+remained, was set at rest. The horseman, after circling about a time or
+two, brought his horse to a standstill facing in the direction from
+which we were approaching. There was a puff of smoke from the muzzle of
+his revolver or carbine, and a bullet whizzed by and buried itself in
+the breast of one of the horses in the first set of fours.
+
+"There,--it," exclaimed Lovell. "Now you know it is a rebel, don't you?"
+
+The information was too reliable not to be convincing, and the regiment
+was promptly brought front into line, which had hardly been
+accomplished, when shots began to come from other points in the woods,
+and no further demonstration was needed that they were full of
+confederates.
+
+The fence was close at hand, and the command to dismount to fight on
+foot was given. The Sixth deployed along the fence and the Spencers
+began to bark. The horses were sent back a short distance, under cover
+of a reverse slope. The acting adjutant was dispatched to overtake
+Custer and report to him that we were confronted by a large force of
+confederates and had been attacked. Before he had started, the
+confederates displayed a line of dismounted skirmishers that extended
+far beyond both flanks of the regiment and a swarm of them in front. A
+Michigan regiment, behind a fence, and armed with Spencer carbines, was
+a dangerous antagonist to grapple with by a direct front assault, and
+Fitzhugh Lee's men were not eager to advance across the open field, but
+hugged the woods, waiting for their friends on the right and left to get
+around our flanks, which there was imminent danger of their doing,
+before relief could come. It did not, however, take Custer long to act.
+Putting the Fifth Michigan in on the right of the Sixth, he brought back
+Pennington's battery, and stationed the First Vermont mounted to protect
+the left flank, holding the First Michigan mounted in reserve to support
+the battery and to reinforce any weak point, and proceeded to put up one
+of the gamiest fights against odds, seen in the war. Opposed to Custer's
+five regiments and one battery, Fitzhugh Lee had twelve regiments of
+cavalry, three brigades under Lomax, Owen and Chambliss and as good a
+battery--Breathed's--as was in the confederate service.
+
+Before the dispositions described in the foregoing had been completed,
+Breathed's battery, which had been masked in the woods to the right and
+front of the position occupied by the Sixth Michigan, opened fire with
+shell. But Pennington came into position with a rush, and unlimbering
+two pieces, in less time than it takes to tell it, silenced the
+confederate artillery, firing over the heads of the Sixth Michigan
+skirmishers. Fitzhugh Lee pressed forward his dismounted line, following
+it closely with mounted cavalry, and made a desperate effort to cut off
+Custer's line of retreat by the bridge. This he was unable to do. The
+Sixth held on to the fence until the confederates were almost to it, and
+until ordered by Custer to retire, when they fell back slowly, and
+mounting their horses, crossed the bridge leisurely, without hurry or
+flurry, the battery and the other regiments, except the First and Fifth
+Michigan, preceding it. The First Michigan brought up the rear.
+
+Fitzhugh Lee was completely foiled in his effort to get in Custer's
+rear, or to break up his flanks. Unfortunately, a portion of one
+battalion of the Fifth Michigan, about fifty men, under command of Major
+John Clark, with Captain Lee and Adjutant George Barse was captured.
+Being dismounted in the woods on the right, they were not able to reach
+their horses before being intercepted by the enemy's mounted men.
+
+Custer, on the whole, was very fortunate and had reason to congratulate
+himself on escaping with so little damage. Davies did not fare so well.
+When Kilpatrick found that Custer was attacked, he sent orders to Davies
+to retreat. But the sound of firing which gave this notice to Kilpatrick
+was also the prearranged signal for Stuart, and that officer immediately
+turned on Davies with his entire division, and Davies though he put up
+a stout resistance had no alternative finally but to take to the woods
+on the north side of the pike and escape, "every man for himself."
+Fitzhugh Lee was between him and the bridge, he was hemmed in on three
+sides, and in order to escape, his men had to plunge in and swim their
+horses across Broad Run. The Fifth Michigan, except Major Clark's
+command, escaped in the same way. The wagons, which followed Davies,
+including Custer's headquarters wagon containing all his papers, were
+captured.
+
+At first blush, it may appear that, if the vidette who fired the first
+shot, thus divulging the fact of the enemy's presence, had not done so,
+the Sixth Michigan would have gone on and marched right into Fitzhugh
+Lee's arms. It is not likely, however, that such would have been the
+result. Captain Lovell had already seen and called attention to the
+picket, declaring that he was a "rebel." The obvious course, under the
+circumstances, before taking down the fence and advancing to the woods,
+would have been to deploy a skirmish line and feel of the woods instead
+of blundering blindly into them.
+
+Fitzhugh Lee made a mistake in halting to dismount. He should have
+charged the Sixth Michigan. Had he charged at once mounted as Rosser did
+in the Wilderness, with his overwhelmingly superior force at the moment
+of his arrival he must certainly have interposed between Custer and the
+bridge. He allowed one regiment to detain his division until Custer
+could bring back his brigade, and get his regiments into position to
+support each other.
+
+Major H.B. McClellan, Stuart's adjutant general, commenting in his
+book[20] on this battle, says that "Custer was a hard fighter, even on a
+retreat." He also says:
+
+   "Fitzhugh Lee had come up from Auburn expecting to gain, unopposed,
+   the rear of Kilpatrick's division, but he found Custer's brigade at
+   Broad Run ready to oppose him. A fierce fight ensued."
+
+Major McClellan also quotes Major P.P. Johnston, who commanded a section
+of Breathed's battery in the fight, as saying:
+
+   "My battery was hotly engaged. The battle was of the most obstinate
+   character, Fitz. Lee exerting himself to the utmost to push the
+   enemy, and Custer seeming to have no thought of retiring."
+
+The battle was opened by Wickham's brigade of Virginians commanded by
+Colonel T.H. Owen of the Third Virginia cavalry. It was the First,
+Second and Third Virginia that led the advance. Pennington gave
+Breathed's battery much the worst of it.
+
+The truth is that Fitz. Lee did not find Custer ready to oppose him,
+though it did not take him long to get ready, after he was attacked.
+Custer with most of his command was well on his way to follow
+Kilpatrick. Only one regiment was left behind, and that one
+regiment--the Sixth Michigan cavalry--was taken entirely by surprise
+when fired upon by the vidette, and was all that Colonel Owen had in
+front of him when he arrived and began the attack. It is possible that
+ignorance of what it was facing helped the Sixth Michigan to hold on
+till Custer could be notified and brought back. And again, it is
+possible that Custer was marching more slowly than the writer wots of;
+that he suspected the ruse which was being played by his old West Point
+instructor,[21] and sent the regiment out there for the express purpose
+of developing the enemy, if enemy there was, making a feint of moving
+away so as to deceive, but keeping an ear to windward to catch the first
+sound of danger. It has always seemed to the writer that General Custer
+must have had a motive which did not appear on the surface, in giving
+that order. His order was to go 500 yards. Five hundred yards would have
+brought us to the woods. If he suspected that there might be an enemy
+there, no surer way to find out whether his suspicions were well founded
+or not could have been chosen. One thing is certain. He was back in an
+incredibly short space of time. It may be that he heard the sound of
+firing and was on his way when the adjutant found him.
+
+Fitzhugh Lee followed Custer half way to Gainesville and then withdrew.
+Near that place was found a line of federal infantry sent out to support
+the cavalry, but it did not advance far enough to get into the fight.
+
+That night, Kilpatrick invited all the officers of the division to his
+headquarters and made a sorry attempt at merry-making over the events of
+the day. There were milk-punch and music, both of very good quality, but
+the punch, palatable as it undeniably was, did not serve to take away
+the bad taste left by the affair, especially among the officers of the
+First brigade. Custer's men did not feel so badly. They had saved their
+bacon and their battery, and the wariness, prudence and pluck of their
+young commander had prevented a much more serious disaster than had
+actually happened.
+
+It may be of interest enough to mention that Fitz. Lee told the writer,
+in Yorktown, in 1881, that Stuart was at fault in stopping to fight at
+Buckland Mills; that, under the arrangement with him (Lee) Stuart should
+have fallen back very rapidly, without making any resistance whatever,
+until he had lured Kilpatrick with his entire division some distance
+beyond the bridge. In that event, General Lee would have found the
+opportunity he was seeking. But he did not know about Custer's action in
+insisting on stopping there. He was much surprised when informed of the
+true state of things, since he had felt that Stuart was blameworthy in
+the matter. He had supposed that it was Stuart's resistance to the
+federal advance which kept Custer's brigade back until his arrival, and
+foiled his well planned attempt.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV
+
+WINTER QUARTERS IN STEVENSBURG
+
+
+In the month of November, 1863, the army of the Potomac recrossed the
+Rappahannock and the army of Northern Virginia retired behind the
+Rapidan. General Meade took up the line through Culpeper, placing the
+Third division on the left flank with headquarters at Stevensburg.
+
+The advance into Stevensburg was stoutly contested by Hampton's
+division, and the confederate cavalry showed that it had not lost any of
+its fighting qualities, if its dash and spirit had been somewhat
+dampened by the sturdy resistance put up in the recent campaign by the
+federal troopers led by Pleasonton, Buford, Gregg, Kilpatrick and
+Custer.
+
+At the time of the "Mine Run" affair, the Michigan cavalry crossed the
+Rapidan at Morton's Ford and attacked Ewell's infantry, falling back
+after dark to the old position on the north side of the river.
+
+After that episode, the army went into winter quarters. The three
+generals--Kilpatrick, Custer and Davies--had quarters in houses, the
+rest for the most part lived in tents or huts. The Sixth was hutted in
+temporary structures built of logs surmounted by tents. They were
+fitted with doors, chimneys and fireplaces--some of them with sashes and
+glass and were very comfortable. The winter was a very cold one. There
+was some snow, even in Virginia, and the first day of January, 1864, is
+still remembered as noteworthy for its extremely low temperature
+throughout the country.
+
+While in this camp the Michigan regiments had a visit from Jacob M.
+Howard, the colleague of Zachariah Chandler in the United States senate.
+He was one of the ablest men who ever represented the state in the
+national congress. He had served with high distinction as attorney
+general of the state before being elected to the senate. As chairman of
+the senate committee on Pacific railroads, he had much to do with
+piloting the country through the many difficulties which stood in the
+way of the accomplishment of the great enterprise of laying tracks for
+the iron horse across the American desert--spanning the continent with
+railroads--and reducing the journey from the Missouri river to the
+Pacific ocean from one of months to one of days--the most important of
+the achievements that followed close on the heels of the civil war. The
+senator made a patriotic speech to the soldiers and was cordially
+cheered.
+
+The cavalry picket line was twenty-five miles long, and it was no
+child's play to serve as field officer of the day, when every picket
+post and every vidette had to be visited at least once each twenty-four
+hours. The outer line was along the Rapidan river. The confederate
+pickets on the other side were infantry. The union pickets were mounted
+and the duty was very wearing on both men and horses. Stuart's cavalry
+performed comparatively but little picket duty, and was kept back in
+comfortable quarters, recruiting and fitting for the coming spring
+campaign.
+
+During the winter there was very little firing between the pickets.
+There was a sort of tacit understanding that they were not to molest
+each other. Indeed, officers could ride along the line without fear of
+being shot at. When on inspection duty, they at times rode down to the
+bank and conversed with the enemy on the other side. The pickets were
+suspected of crossing and recrossing and exchanging civilities--trading
+tobacco for papers and the like. The word of honor would be given to
+allow the federal or confederate, as the case might be, to return in
+safety and it was never violated when given. These visits were always in
+the daytime, of course, for at night vigilance was never relaxed, and a
+vidette was not supposed to know anybody or permit even his own officers
+to approach without the proper countersign.
+
+Life in winter quarters was at best dull and it relieved the monotony to
+go on picket. The detail as field officer of the day was welcomed,
+although it necessitated a ride of forty or fifty miles and continuous
+activity for the entire of the tour of duty, both night and day. On
+these rides I made the acquaintance of a number of Virginia families,
+who lived near the river and within our lines. Of these I can now
+recall but two. On the banks of the Rapidan, directly in front of
+Stevensburg, lived a man named Stringfellow, who owned a large
+plantation, which had been despoiled of everything of value, except the
+house and a few outbuildings. Every fence was gone, and not a spear of
+anything had been permitted to grow. Mr. Stringfellow was a tall man,
+with gray hair, and clerical in garb and aspect. He was, in fact, a
+clergyman, and the degree of doctor of divinity had been conferred upon
+him--a thing that in those days meant something. Degrees, like brevets,
+were not so easily obtained before the civil war period as they have
+been since.
+
+Mr. Stringfellow was a gentleman of culture, a scholar and profound
+student of Biblical literature. He had written a book, a copy of which
+was to be seen in his house, in which he had demonstrated, to his own
+satisfaction, at least, that the "institution of slavery" was of divine
+origin. It was said that he was a brother of the Stringfellow who became
+so notorious during the Kansas troubles, as a leader of the "border
+ruffians," who tried to force slavery into that territory, before the
+breaking out of hostilities between the states. Living at home with this
+Virginia doctor of divinity, was a married daughter, whose husband was
+an officer in the confederate army. They were people of the old school,
+cultured, refined, and hospitable, though hard put to it to show any
+substantial evidences of their innate hospitality, on account of their
+impoverished condition, which they seemed to feel keenly, but were too
+proud to mention, except when driven to it by sheer necessity. The
+federal cavalrymen were always welcome in that house and the officers in
+many instances were very kind to them. Indeed, I suspect that more than
+once they were spared the pangs of hunger by the thoughtful kindness of
+officers who had found shelter in their home and had broken bread at
+their table, only to suspect that the family larder had been stripped of
+the last morsel, in order to keep up the reputation for Virginia
+hospitality.
+
+About five miles farther down the river, in a lonely spot, where a small
+tributary of the Rapidan tumbled down a decline, was a water-power on
+which was a rude sawmill, where a single old-fashioned "sash saw" chewed
+its way lazily through hardwood logs. The mill was tended by its owner
+who, with his wife, lived in a house hard by the mill, the only
+occupants of the dwelling and the only inhabitants of the immediate
+neighborhood. They led a lonely life, and when its monotony was broken
+by the arrival of the officer of the day upon his tour of duty, extended
+a quiet, but what appeared to be a not over cordial welcome. The man was
+a dwarf. He was so low in stature that when he stood, his head came just
+above the top of the dining room table. His diminutive stature was due
+to a strange malformation. His legs looked as if they had been driven up
+into his body, so that there was little left but the feet. Otherwise, he
+was like another, with well formed head and trunk. His wife was a
+comely lady both in form and in feature, rather above than below medium
+height. Both were intelligent and well read, pleasant people to visit
+with; but when this man, with the head and trunk of an adult, the
+stature of a child and, to all intents and purposes, no legs at all,
+toddled across the floor the effect was queer and, taken in connection
+with his somewhat solitary environment, it suggested a scene from the
+"Black Dwarf." But when one was seated as a guest of these good people
+at their hospitable board his physical deformity was lost sight of in
+the zest of his conversation.
+
+The winter of 1863-64 was one of hard work for the federal cavalry. In
+addition to their other duties, the Michigan regiments were required to
+change their tactical formation and learn a new drill. Up to that time,
+Philip St. George Cooke's single rank cavalry tactics had been used. The
+tactical unit was the set of fours and all movements were executed by
+wheeling these units. There was but one rank. For some reason, it was
+decided to substitute the old United States cavalry tactics and form in
+double ranks. The utility of the change was, to say the least, an open
+question, and it necessitated many weeks of hard and unremitting toil on
+the part of both officers and men. There was little time for rest or
+recreation. Long and tiresome drills and "schools of instruction" made
+up the daily routine. In one respect, however, these drills of troop,
+regiment and brigade were a good thing. Many hundreds of new recruits
+were sent on from Michigan and, being put in with the old men, they were
+worked into good soldiers before the campaign opened, and proved to be
+as reliable and efficient as the veterans with whom they were
+associated. The Sixth Michigan received over two hundred of these
+recruits at one time. They were fine soldiers and on the march from the
+Wilderness to the James, no inspecting officer could have picked out the
+recruits of 1863-64 from those who enlisted in 1862.
+
+At division and brigade headquarters alone was there time for play.
+Generals Custer and Kilpatrick had a race course where they used to
+devote some time to the sport of horse racing. There were in the
+division a number of blooded and speedy animals, and not a little
+friendly rivalry was developed in the various commands when the merits
+of their respective favorites were to be tested on the turf.
+
+It was while at Stevensburg that General Custer obtained leave of
+absence and went home to Michigan to claim his bride. He was married in
+February, 1864, to Miss Elizabeth B. Bacon, daughter of Judge Bacon, of
+Monroe, Michigan. Mrs. Custer accompanied him when he came back and from
+that time on till the end of the war, whenever the exigencies of the
+service would permit, she was by his side. He was then but two months
+past twenty-four years of age, though he had already achieved fame as a
+cavalry officer and general of brigade. He was the youngest officer of
+his rank who won any great measure of success. Kilpatrick was more than
+three years his senior, although both were graduated from West Point in
+1861.
+
+Some time after the beginning of the year 1864, there began to be rumors
+of some daring expedition that was on foot, to be led by the dashing
+general commanding the division. It was about the middle of February,
+when a number of statesmen of national prominence came to Stevensburg,
+and it did not take a prophet to tell that something of unusual
+importance was in the wind, though nothing very definite leaked out as
+to what it was. Among the visitors referred to, were Senators Chandler
+("Zach."), of Michigan, and Wilkinson, of Minnesota. During their stay,
+there was a meeting in a public hall in Culpeper at which speeches were
+made by both these gentlemen and where General Kilpatrick demonstrated
+that he was no less an orator than a fighter. His speech was the gem of
+the evening and stirred up no end of enthusiasm. Hints were thrown out
+of an indefinite something that was going to happen. It is now known, as
+it was soon thereafter, that Kilpatrick had devised a daring scheme for
+the capture of Richmond, which had been received with so much favor by
+the authorities in Washington, that he was then awaiting only the
+necessary authority from the war department before setting out on what
+proved to be an ill-fated expedition.
+
+Late in the month, permission was given and he proceeded to organize a
+force of picked men and horses, selected with great care from the
+various regiments. The Fifth, Sixth and Seventh Michigan and First
+Vermont were represented, the Sixth furnishing about three hundred men.
+The First Michigan had just re-enlisted at the expiration of its three
+years' term of service and was absent on "veteran furlough," so did not
+take part, as the officers and men of that fine regiment would have been
+only too glad to do, had they been given the opportunity. It was a small
+division, divided into two brigades. General Davies led one of them, but
+General Custer was taken away and entrusted with the command of an
+important diversion designed to attract the attention of the enemy by an
+attack on his left flank, while Kilpatrick passed around his right and
+by a quick march reached the confederate capital. That portion of
+Custer's brigade which went on the raid, as it was called, was commanded
+by Colonel Sawyer, of the First Vermont cavalry. Detachments from the
+Fifth, Sixth and Seventh Michigan were commanded by Captain Hastings,
+Major Kidd and Lieutenant Colonel Litchfield respectively; the First
+Vermont by Lieutenant Colonel Preston.
+
+Custer's part of the work was successfully accomplished. He created so
+much commotion in the direction of Charlottesville, that Kilpatrick was
+across the Rapidan and well on his way before his purpose was either
+discovered or suspected. It was, however, a fatal mistake to leave
+Custer behind. There were others who could have made the feint which he
+so brilliantly executed, but in a movement requiring perfect poise, the
+rarest judgment and the most undoubted courage, Kilpatrick could illy
+spare his gifted and daring subordinate; and it is no disparagement to
+the officer who took his place to say that the Michigan brigade without
+Custer, at that time, was like the play of Hamlet with the melancholy
+Dane left out. With him the expedition as devised might well have been
+successful; without him it was foredoomed to failure.
+
+At the Culpeper meeting there was a large gathering of both officers and
+enlisted men, attracted thither from various arms of the service by a
+natural curiosity to hear what the speakers had to say. There were also
+several ladies in the audience. On the platform sat many officers of
+high rank. I do not remember who presided, but recall distinctly the
+glitter of rich uniforms.
+
+After the speaking had begun, an officer wearing the overcoat of an
+enlisted man came in from the wings and modestly took a seat at the back
+of the stage. "Not obvious, not obtrusive, but retired," he seemed to
+shun observation. When, later, he removed his overcoat it was seen that
+he wore the dress uniform of a brigadier general. Inquiry disclosed that
+he was Wesley Merritt, commander of the Reserve brigade of the First
+cavalry division. His brigade consisted of three regiments of
+regulars--the First, Second and Fifth United States cavalry--and two
+regiments of volunteers--the First New York dragoons and the Sixth
+Pennsylvania cavalry. This was a crack brigade and after the opening of
+the spring campaign it was closely associated with the Michigan brigade
+for the remaining period of the war.
+
+[Illustration: WESLEY MERRITT]
+
+Wesley Merritt, whom I saw then for the first time, was one of the
+"youngsters" who received their stars in June, 1863. He was graduated
+from the West Point military academy in 1860, at the age of twenty-four,
+and made such rapid progress in rank and reputation that he was a
+brigadier at twenty-seven. As a cavalry commander he was trained by John
+Buford. The latter was rightly called, "Old Reliable," not because of
+his age, but for the reason that he rarely if ever failed to be in the
+right place at the right moment--solid rather than showy, not
+spectacular but sure. His courage and ability were both conspicuous. He
+belonged to the school of officers of which Thomas, Meade, Sedgwick and
+Gregg were exemplars, rather than to that of which Kearney, Sheridan and
+Custer were preeminent types.
+
+Such also was Merritt, an apt pupil of an illustrious teacher, the
+lineal successor of Buford. He came by natural selection to be commander
+of the First division, and at the last was chief of cavalry of the army
+of the Potomac, the capable successor of Pleasonton and Sheridan, a
+position for which he was peculiarly fitted by nature, by acquirements,
+and by experience. Modesty which fitted him like a garment, charming
+manners, the demeanor of a gentleman, cool but fearless bearing in
+action, were his distinguishing characteristics. He was a most excellent
+officer, between whom and Custer there was, it seemed, a great deal of
+generous rivalry. But, in the association of the two in the same command
+there was strength, for each was in a sort the complement of the other.
+Unlike in temperament, in appearance, and in their style of fighting,
+they were at one in the essentials that go to make a successful career.
+
+But, to return to the point in the narrative from whence this digression
+strayed, the force that was thus assembled in Stevensburg, somewhat
+against the protests, but in compliance with orders from army and corps
+headquarters, was brought together with much show of secrecy, albeit the
+secret was an open one. As has been seen, the rumor of the projected
+movement had been for some time flying about from ear to ear, and from
+camp to camp. Its flight, however, must have been with heavy pinions,
+for it did not extend beyond the river, where the confederates were
+resting in fancied security, innocent of the hatching of a plot for
+sudden mischief to their capital.
+
+The composition of the Second brigade has already been given. Its
+numerical strength was about 1,800 officers and men. The First brigade
+consisted of nine regiments of cavalry and one battery of artillery.
+That is to say there were detachments from that number of regiments.
+These were distributed equally among the three divisions, as follows:
+From the First division, the Third Indiana, Fourth New York and the
+Seventeenth Pennsylvania; from the Second division, the First Maine, the
+Fourth Pennsylvania, and Sixteenth Pennsylvania; from the First brigade,
+Third division, Davies's own command, the Second New York, the Fifth New
+York, and Eighteenth Pennsylvania. Ransom's regular battery was assigned
+to duty with this brigade. The detachments from the First division were
+all consolidated under Major Hall of the Sixth New York; those from the
+Second division under Major Taylor of the First Maine. The aggregate
+strength of Davies's command was 1,817 officers and men, exclusive of
+the artillery. The total strength of Kilpatrick's command was about
+3,500.
+
+The expedition started after dark Sunday evening, February 28, 1864,
+with three days' rations. The route selected led toward the lower fords
+of the Rapidan. The advance guard consisted of 600 picked men from the
+various commands, all under Colonel Ulric Dahlgren, an officer of
+Meade's staff who had established a reputation for extraordinary daring
+and dash. He had been especially designated from army headquarters to
+accompany the expedition. Davies followed with the main body of his
+brigade including Ransom's battery. To Colonel Sawyer with the Vermont
+and Michigan men fell the irksome duty of bringing up the rear of the
+column, the chief care being to keep up the pace, not losing sight of
+those in front, of which for a good part of the night there was much
+danger.
+
+The crossing was made a little before midnight at Ely's Ford, Dahlgren
+taking the confederate picket post by surprise and capturing every man.
+No alarm was given. The start was thus auspicious. We were within the
+enemy's lines and they were not yet aware of it.
+
+There was no halt. The rapid march was continued throughout the night.
+It was clear and cold. The order for the march was "at a fast walk," but
+every experienced cavalryman knows that the letter of such an order can
+be obeyed only by those in advance. The rear of the column kept closed
+up with great difficulty. The sound of hoofs in front was the only guide
+as to the direction to be taken. Often it was necessary to take the
+trot, sometimes the gallop, and even then the leaders were at times out
+of sight and out of hearing. At such times, there was an apprehensive
+feeling after the touch, which had to be kept in order to be sure that
+we were on the right road. This was especially true of the heads of
+subdivisions--the commanders of regiments--who were charged with the
+responsibility of keeping in sight of those next in front.
+
+The march was not only rapid but it was continuous. There was an air of
+undue haste--a precipitancy and rush not all reassuring. Only the
+stoical were entirely free from disquietude. Those of us who were with
+the extreme rear, and who had not been admitted to the confidence of the
+projectors and leaders of the expedition, began to conjecture what it
+all meant, where we were going and, if the pace were kept up, when we
+would get there, and what would be done when the destination was
+reached. All the excitement and enjoyment were Dahlgren's; all the dull
+monotony and nerve-racking strain ours.
+
+The head of column reached Spottsylvania Courthouse at daylight. The
+tail came trailing in as best it could, some time later. Here, in
+accordance with the prearranged plan, Dahlgren with his six hundred
+troopers separated from the main body, bearing to the westward and
+following the direct road to Frederickshall station on the Virginia
+Central railroad, his objective point being Goochland, about twenty
+miles above Richmond on the James river. The plan was for Colonel
+Dahlgren to cross the river at or near that place, move down on the
+south side, and be in position to recross by the main bridge into
+Richmond at ten o'clock, Tuesday morning, March 1, at the same moment
+when Kilpatrick would enter the city from the north by way of the Brook
+turnpike.[22]
+
+But, "the best laid schemes o' mice and men gang aft a-gley." General
+Sheridan pointed out that such combinations rarely work out as expected,
+and that when an engagement with the enemy is liable to take place at
+any moment it is better to keep the whole force well together.[23]
+
+In this case for Kilpatrick to divide his force was a fatal error of
+judgment. In the light of what took place it is now clear, as it ought
+to have been at the time, that the entire command should have been kept
+together, on one road. General Custer made the same mistake when he went
+to his death at Little Big Horn, in 1876. The combination did not work
+out as he expected. It may be entirely safe and proper for detachments
+to be sent out to make diversions for the purpose of deceiving the
+enemy. This was done when, on approaching Ashland Station, Major Hall
+was despatched with a force of about five hundred men to drive in the
+pickets in front of that place and make a feint of attacking, leading
+the enemy to suppose that this was the main body, while Kilpatrick with
+most of his force proceeded without opposition on the road leading to
+Richmond. But care was taken that he could reunite at any moment.
+
+It would have been better had Dahlgren continued as the advance guard,
+going directly to Richmond by way of one of the bridges of the South
+Anna river and the Brook, the main column closely following. In that
+way, the general commanding might have had all the parts of his
+expeditionary force well in hand, under his own eye, and there need have
+been no halting, hesitation, or waiting one for the other. Dahlgren
+utterly failed to carry out to fulfilment the part of the plan
+prearranged for him to accomplish, and lost his life into the bargain.
+And the pity of it is that his life was wasted. Had he died leading a
+charge through the streets of Richmond, compensation might have been
+found in the glory of his achievement. But he died in an ambush, laid
+for him by a small force of home guards and furloughed confederate
+soldiers, who managed to throw themselves across his way when, after
+admitted defeat, he was trying to make his escape with only a small
+portion of his command. He deserved a better fate.
+
+The main body crossed the Po river in the morning of Monday, February
+29, and made a halt of fifteen minutes to feed. Thence it pushed on,
+Davies's brigade still leading, by way of Newmarket, Chilesburg and
+Anderson's bridge across the South Anna river to Beaverdam Station on
+the Virginia Central railroad. This point was reached late in the
+afternoon, the rear guard not arriving until after dark. Here some
+buildings and stores were burned. A train coming into the station,
+warned by the reflection of the flames in the cloudy sky, backed out and
+escaped capture. A small force of confederates made its appearance but
+was easily brushed away. The brushing and burning, however, were done by
+Davies's men. The Michigan cavalrymen coming too late for the fair, were
+privileged to hover in the background and watch the interesting
+performance from a safe distance, leaving it for the imagination to
+picture what they would have done if they had had the chance.
+
+This night was cold, raw and rainy, the atmosphere full of moisture
+which gradually turned to an icy sleet. This added greatly to the
+discomfort of the march, which was resumed after tearing up the track
+and taking down the telegraph wires and poles in the neighborhood of the
+station. The stop at Beaverdam Station was not worth mentioning so far
+as it gave any opportunity to men or horses for rest or refreshment. Out
+into the dark night--and it was a darkness that could be felt--rode
+those brave troopers. On and on, for hours and hours, facing the biting
+storm, feeling the pelting rain, staring with straining eyes into the
+black night, striving to see when nothing was visible to the keenest
+vision, listening with pricked up ears for the sound of the well-shod
+hoofs which with rhythmical tread signaled the way.
+
+The night was well advanced when at last a halt was ordered to make
+coffee for the men and give the patient animals the modicum of oats that
+had been brought, strapped to the cantles of the saddles. The bivouac
+was in the neighborhood of the Ground Squirrel bridge. Davies in his
+official report said that he went into camp at eight o'clock in the
+evening. That may have been. Davies was at the head of column and, after
+the small advance guard, the first to reach the camp ground. It was
+fully two hours later when the last of the Second brigade reached the
+place. From seven o'clock Sunday evening, till ten o'clock Monday night
+there had been no stop to speak of--no chance to cook coffee or feed the
+horses--save the brief halt of barely fifteen minutes on the south bank
+of the Po river. The men were weary, wet, cold and hungry but there was
+no complaining, for they were all hardened veterans, accustomed to
+hardship and exposure. They had been schooled to endure the privations
+of campaigning with cheerful fortitude.
+
+When, at one o'clock, Tuesday morning, March 1, the march was once more
+resumed, it was found that the First brigade still had the lead. As on
+the previous day Michigan and Vermont were relegated to the rear. By the
+custom of the service it was our turn to be in the advance. The rule was
+for brigades and even regiments to alternate in leading. That is because
+it is much easier to march in front than in rear. On that morning
+Sawyer's command was entitled to be in front and the first in the fray.
+That may, however, be looked upon as a trifling matter and not worth
+mentioning. Veterans will not so consider it. It was but natural that
+Kilpatrick should before all others have confidence in his old brigade
+and those officers with whom he had personally served. Davies was a
+gallant officer and had some fine officers and regiments with him. There
+were none better. It was an inglorious part that was assigned to us.
+Still, there was as it turned out not much glory in the expedition for
+anybody, least of all for Kilpatrick himself.
+
+The march during the forenoon was along the Richmond and Potomac
+railroad, to and across the Chickahominy river, to the Brook turnpike.
+Davies advanced along the turnpike toward the city, driving in the
+pickets and capturing a few of them. He crossed the "Brook"[24] and
+succeeded in getting inside the outer entrenchments, within a mile of
+Richmond. From the high ground overlooking the intervening plain it was
+almost possible to look into the streets and count the spires on the
+churches.
+
+The time which it would take to make the ride from the Rapidan to the
+"Brook" had been closely calculated. Ten o'clock, Tuesday morning, March
+1, had been the hour set when Kilpatrick would arrive and begin the
+assault upon Richmond from the north, while Dahlgren attacked it from
+the south. The former was on time to the minute. But where was Dahlgren?
+He made no sign. There was no way to determine whether he was or was not
+carrying out his part of the prearranged plan. Signals did not work.
+Kilpatrick was left to his own resources. A condition had developed in
+which prompt decision and action were imperatively demanded. There was
+no time for delay or careful deliberation. To do or not to do, that was
+the question. And there was but one man who could settle it. The
+rationale of the raid was a hurried ride, timely arrival, great daring,
+a surprise, a sudden charge without a moment's hesitation--success.
+
+Whatever was done must needs be done quickly. It was not conceivable
+that Kilpatrick with three thousand men and six pieces of
+artillery--Kilpatrick the bold, the dashing cavalryman, the hero of
+Middleburg and Aldie--the conceiver of the expedition, who knew in
+advance all about the perils he must meet, the chances he must
+take--that he would permit uncertainty as to what Dahlgren with but five
+or six hundred men and no artillery was doing to influence his own
+immediate action. For all that he knew, Dahlgren was already in
+position, ready to strike, but awaiting the sound of battle from the
+north as the signal to begin.
+
+And yet he hesitated. The object of the expedition, as has been shown,
+was to ride into Richmond and liberate the prisoners. It was a daring
+enterprise. A courage to execute commensurate to the ability to conceive
+was presupposed. So far everything had gone by the clock. Officers and
+men alike knew what that forced march of thirty-six hours, without
+pause, meant, if it had any rational meaning. Each one had screwed his
+courage to the sticking point to follow wherever our gallant commander
+led, prepared to share with him success or failure, according to the
+event. Indeed, there was safety in following rather than in falling
+back. We were far afield in an enemy's country. It was necessary to
+"hang together to avoid hanging separately." The goal was in sight. By a
+bold and quick forward movement alone could it be reached. An order to
+move up into a line of squadron columns was momentarily expected. That a
+dash into the city, or at least an attempt would be made nobody doubted.
+Anything short of that would be farcical, and the expedition that set
+out big with promise would be fated to return barren of results. The
+good beginning was worthy of a better ending than that.
+
+Well, some of Davies's advance regiments were dismounted and the men
+sent forward deployed as carbineers on foot to feel of the
+fortifications and make a tentative attack on their defenders. Some of
+Ransom's guns were unlimbered and opened fire at long range. Reply was
+made by the enemy's cannoneers, for some of the earthworks facing us
+were manned with artillerists.
+
+In the meantime, Sawyer's brigade held on the pike in column of fours,
+mounted, anxiously awaiting orders and developments, listened intently
+to the desultory firing of the carbineers and the occasional boom of the
+cannon in front. There was a growing feeling of uneasiness and
+incertitude which began to frame our minds for doubts and fears as to
+the outcome.
+
+At length, a staff officer was seen riding slowly from the front towards
+the rear. The thought that ran along the column was, "Now the order is
+surely coming to move forward at a trot." Not so, however. He had been
+directed by General Kilpatrick to notify commanding officers that in
+case any of their men should be wounded, they would be obliged to make
+their own arrangements for the transportation and care of them, since
+there were no ambulances available.
+
+Cheerful intelligence, surely, and well timed to put men and officers
+upon their fighting mettle! From that moment, the mental attitude of the
+bravest was one of apathetic indifference. Such an announcement was
+enough to dampen the ardor of men as brave as those who had been
+selected to make up the personnel of this expedition.
+
+Finally, anxious to get some idea of what was going on and what the
+outlook, I rode forward to a place overlooking the battle field. Away to
+the front, a thousand yards or more, was an open stretch of cleared
+fields, across which was a light line of dismounted cavalry skirmishers,
+firing away at the defenders of the earthworks. This defensive force did
+not appear to be formidable in numbers; nor was it particularly
+effective in its fire upon our troops. Along the union line rode Captain
+L.G. Estes, adjutant general of the division, his cape lined with red
+thrown back on one shoulder, making of him a conspicuous target. He was
+exposing himself in most audacious fashion, as was his wont. It looked
+like an act of pure bravado. It was not necessary for him to furnish
+evidence of his gallantry. His courage was proverbial among the
+cavalrymen of the Third division. They had seen him recklessly expose
+his life on many battle fields.
+
+This was as near as the expedition ever came to capturing Richmond.
+Kilpatrick who, at the start, was bold and confident, at the last when
+quick resolution was indispensable, appeared to be overcome with a
+strange and fatal irresolution. Davies was recalled and the entire force
+was directed to take the road to Meadow Bridge. It was after dark when
+we were ordered into camp somewhere between Mechanicsville and Atlee's
+Station. When I received the order I inquired if we were to picket our
+own camp but was informed that details for that purpose had been made
+and it would not be necessary. This quieted my fears somewhat but not
+entirely. Precautions were taken against possible surprise and to ensure
+speedy mounting and getting into position in the event of an emergency
+requiring it. The regiment went into bivouac in line, a little back in
+the shadow and away from the fires. Few camp fires were permitted. The
+saddle girths were loosened slightly but the saddles were not removed.
+Each trooper lay in front of his own horse, pulling the bridle rein over
+his horse's head and slipping his arm through it. In this way they were
+to get such sleep as they could. In case of a sudden alarm they were to
+stand to horse and be ready instantly to mount.
+
+Thinking that in any case it could be got ready while the regiment was
+being mounted, I allowed my own horse to be unsaddled and hitched him by
+the halter to a sapling in front of my shelter tent which was quickly
+pitched, Barnhart, the acting adjutant, and an orderly pitching theirs
+by the side of it. Then, removing sword and belt but keeping on
+overcoat, boots and spurs, I crawled in with a "poncho" under me, using
+the saddle for a pillow.
+
+It was a raw, rainy night, and snow was falling. The bad weather of the
+first night out was worse than repeated. It seemed more like Michigan
+than Virginia. It was very dark. I do not believe that any man living
+could make a map of the camps which the two brigades occupied that
+night--the exact locations or even the relative positions of the various
+commands. I doubt if the actual participants could point them out were
+they to visit the place. I know that at the time I had not the slightest
+knowledge on the subject and could not have told which way to go to find
+any one of them or even brigade or division headquarters. It looked like
+a case of "wisdom consists in taking care of yourself." We were on the
+north side of the Chickahominy and, with the bridges guarded, it would
+be difficult for the forces with which we had been contending during the
+day to get in on our night encampment. At least they could not well take
+us by surprise. But this made the position all the more vulnerable from
+the north. It was idle to suppose that Stuart's cavalry was doing
+nothing. It was as certain as anything could be that his enterprising
+horsemen were gathering on our track, urging their steeds to the death
+in an endeavor to stop the audacious career of the federal commander.
+
+During the early evening it was known throughout the command that the
+general had not given up the hope of capturing the city and liberating
+the prisoners. A body of five hundred men led by Lieutenant Colonel
+Addison W. Preston of the First Vermont cavalry was to start out from
+our camp by the Mechanicsville road, charge in, release the prisoners
+and bring them out, Kilpatrick covering the movement with his entire
+command. The latter's official report says there were two bodies, one to
+be led by Preston, the other by Major Taylor of the First Maine cavalry.
+The name of Preston was a guarantee that the dash, if made at all, would
+be bravely led. There was no more gallant officer in the whole cavalry
+corps.
+
+The conditions were such as to make one wakeful and alert, if anything
+could. But the danger of yielding for an instant to the allurement of
+the drowsiness produced by the long ride without sleep was overpowering.
+In an instant after getting under cover of the shelter tent I was
+emulating the seven sleepers. It is doubtful if the trump of Gabriel
+himself, had it sounded, could have awakened me. The assurance that we
+were protected by pickets, and the order to go into camp having been
+given unaccompanied by any warning to be alert and on the watch for
+danger, had lulled me into such an absolutely false sense of security
+that I was for the time dead to all the surroundings. There was firing
+among the pickets. I did not hear it. A cannon boomed. I did not hear
+it. A second piece of artillery added to the tumult. I did not hear it.
+Shells hurtled through the trees, over the camp and the waves of sound
+did not disturb my ear. At last partial consciousness returned. There
+was a vague sense of something out of the usual order going on. Then I
+found that Barnhart and the orderly were pulling me out of the "pup"
+tent by the heels. That sufficed. I was instantly wide awake. Barnhart
+was ordered to get his horse and mount the regiment. The orderly to
+saddle my horse and his own. In a few moments all hands were in the
+saddle. The regiment was wheeled by fours and moved a short distance to
+the right, more in the shadow and out of range of the shells, and formed
+in line facing toward where the enemy was supposed to be, and held there
+awaiting orders. No orders to advance came, nor was any brigade line of
+battle formed. In a very short time a staff officer came riding fast and
+directed me to move out by fours on the road in rear of the alignment
+and follow the command which he said had gone and was retreating. He did
+not say what road it was nor whither it led. He then rode away. Wheeling
+into column the regiment was moved out on the road and, greatly confused
+as to the points of the compass, and not hearing or seeing anything of
+the column, turned in the wrong direction. The same staff officer soon
+overtook the head of the regiment and set us right. We had to
+countermarch and, as a matter of fact, were going towards the enemy
+instead of joining in the retreat. It was by mistake, however. We had
+gone probably an eighth of a mile before being stopped.
+
+[Illustration: LEVANT W. BARNHART WILLIAM HULL]
+
+The march then led back within sight of the camp which had been vacated.
+As we passed that point, far away in the distance among the trees, by
+the light of the abandoned fires, could be seen men flitting like
+specters through the places where the camps had been. They were
+presumably the enemy and apparently bent on plunder rather than
+conquest. It was a good time to give them a Roland for their Oliver but
+there did not seem to be a disposition to make a concerted attack or, in
+fact, any attack at all. Kilpatrick was in full retreat toward Old
+Church, abandoning his plan of a midnight attack on Richmond.
+
+The force which made the attack on the camps was led by Wade Hampton
+who, as soon as he knew of the expedition, set out on the trail, picking
+up odds and ends of confederate cavalry when and where he could. He
+marched that day from Hanover Courthouse and says he came in sight of
+the camp fires near Atlee's Station and to his right on the Telegraph or
+Brook road. He must have been deceived as to the direction, for it is
+not possible that any portion of the main body could have been in camp
+on either of those roads. The camp he attacked was that of the Seventh
+Michigan which bore the brunt of it. This regiment lost a number of
+prisoners including the commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel
+Litchfield.
+
+We must have marched at least a mile, perhaps more, when the column was
+overtaken. It was moving at a walk on the road leading to Old Church.
+Finding myself in rear with no rear guard I detached three troops (A, E
+and G) and held them with sufficient interval to cover the retreat. When
+there was a halt they were formed in line across the road and facing to
+the rear with carbines loaded and at a "ready" to repel any attack,
+should one be made. Once when halted the tread of horses could be heard
+approaching.
+
+"Halt! Who comes there?" was the challenge.
+
+"Major Wells and a portion of the First Vermont cavalry," was the reply.
+
+He advanced and was recognized and for the remainder of the night we
+jointly looked after the rear until a camping ground was found near Old
+Church about daylight the next morning.
+
+An amusing thing happened after Barnhart and the orderly pulled me out
+of the tent. The orderly saddled my horse and after buckling on sword
+and belt I put my foot in stirrup and proceeded to mount. The saddle
+slipped off to the ground. In the excitement he had neglected to fasten
+the girths. I put the saddle on again and, making all tight, mounted and
+gave the horse the spur, when to my dismay he proved to be still tied to
+the tree. It was necessary to dismount, untie and adjust the halter. By
+this time it is needless to say I was getting "rattled." But the
+precautions taken made it easy to get the regiment into shape and keep
+it well in hand. The most regrettable thing about it all was that Sawyer
+did not rush his entire brigade to the support of the picket line. Had
+that been done, it is more than likely that Litchfield and his men might
+have been saved from capture, though I do not know how Hampton found
+them when he stole into their camp. If they were scattered about and
+asleep it would have been impossible to rally them and get them into
+line for effective resistance. On the other hand, had Sawyer with his
+other regiments, or Davies with his brigade, or both of them together
+made a concerted attack Hampton might have been worsted. But there was
+no attempt to make a fight. Hampton's attack caused consternation,
+forced a precipitate retreat, and led to the final abandonment of the
+objects of the expedition.
+
+In a previous chapter I have sought to show that official reports are
+often meager, sometimes misleading. There has always been a good deal of
+mystery about this affair. There is mystery still, which careful reading
+of the official records does not dispel. Sawyer made no report; or, if
+he did it was not published. Few if any of the regimental commanders
+submitted reports. The Michigan brigade suffered its usual fate in that
+regard.
+
+Kilpatrick's report as published says:
+
+   "The command was moved out on the road to Old Church, and placed in
+   position and after considerable hard fighting repulsed the enemy and
+   forced him back on the road to Hanover Courthouse."
+
+Davies in his official report said:
+
+   "The enemy during the evening skirmished slightly with my pickets,
+   and about 12 p.m., attacked the Second brigade in force. My command
+   at once mounted and formed, but the Second brigade unassisted
+   repulsed the attack and I moved to the vicinity of Old Church."
+
+Davies, it is seen, did not claim to have made any fight. He was ready
+and in position, but moved away to Old Church.
+
+Wade Hampton, who led the attack, says:
+
+   "From Hanover Courthouse I marched to Hughes's Crossroads as I
+   thought that would be the most likely place for the enemy to cross.
+   From that place I could see their camp fires in the direction of
+   Atlee's Station as well as to my right on the Telegraph or Brook
+   road. I determined to strike at the party near Atlee's and with that
+   view moved down to the station, where we met the pickets of the
+   enemy. I would not allow their fire to be returned, but quickly
+   dismounted 100 men and supporting them with the cavalry, ordered
+   Colonel Cheek (of the North Carolina brigade) to move steadily on the
+   camp while two guns were opened on them at very short range. * * *
+   Kilpatrick immediately moved his division away at a gallop, leaving
+   one wagon with horses hitched to it, and one caisson full of
+   ammunition. The enemy was a brigade strong here with two other
+   brigades immediately in their rear."
+
+From these extracts it will be seen how commanding officers, when they
+write their official reports of a night rencounter, are apt to draw on
+their imaginations for the facts. The stout fight put up by Kilpatrick,
+and the graphic account by Hampton of how he whipped three brigades with
+a handful of confederates hastily assembled, are equally mythical.
+
+Davies's report gives a very accurate description of the affair. From
+this we find that he picketed toward Richmond and the Meadow bridges,
+taking care of the flanks and rear. The slight skirmishing with his
+pickets, of which he speaks, must have been with small bodies that came
+out from Richmond or which followed him from his position of the day on
+the Brook pike. It had no relation to Hampton's attack which was from
+the opposite direction and entirely distinct. To Sawyer it was left, it
+would appear, to look out for the front--that is, toward Ashland and
+Hanover Courthouse. Sawyer sent the Seventh Michigan out on picket, the
+outer line advanced as far as Atlee's Station.
+
+When Hampton came in from Hughes's cross roads, he did not stop to
+skirmish with the videttes. He did not fire a shot but followed the
+pickets into the camp and opened with carbines and two pieces of
+artillery at close range. No arrangements appear to have been made to
+support the Seventh properly in the event of such an attack, which might
+have been foreseen. Sawyer should have reinforced the Seventh with his
+entire brigade. And it was equally incumbent on Kilpatrick to support
+Sawyer with Davies's brigade if he needed support. Neither of these
+things was done. Kilpatrick's artillery made no response to that of
+Hampton. The only order was to retreat. Hampton was not far away from
+the facts when he said that "Kilpatrick immediately moved his division
+off at a gallop." He did not move it "at a gallop." He moved it at a
+walk. But he moved "immediately." He did not stop to fight, and morning
+found him well on the way to the Pamunkey river. It was an unlucky event
+for poor Litchfield. He was held as a prisoner of war very nearly if
+not quite until the curtain had fallen on the final scene at
+Appomattox. I do not remember that he ever again had the privilege of
+commanding his regiment.
+
+[Illustration: A.C. LITCHFIELD]
+
+Kilpatrick's strategy was better than his tactics. His plan was bold in
+conception, but faulty in execution. It has been shown that he made a
+mistake in dividing his command; that he made another when he failed to
+order an immediate attack after his arrival before the city. His
+afterthought of sending Preston and Taylor, at midnight, in a snow
+storm, and on a night so dark that it would have been impossible to keep
+together, to be sure of the way, or to distinguish friend from foe, to
+do a thing which he hesitated to do in the daytime and with his entire
+force, would have been a more serious blunder than either. Of course, if
+Preston had started, it would have been with the determination to
+succeed or lose his life in the adventure. That was his reputation and
+his character as a soldier. But the services and lives of such men are
+too valuable to be wasted in futile attempts. It might have been
+glorious but it would not have been war.
+
+To conclude this rambling description. In October, 1907, while attending
+the Jamestown exposition I met Colonel St. George Tucker, president of
+the exposition company and a well known scion of one of the first
+families of Virginia. The conversation turned to certain incidents of
+the civil war, among others some of those pertaining to the Kilpatrick
+raid. Colonel Tucker was at the time a boy ten years of age. Armed with
+a gun he was at a window in the second story of his father's house
+ready to do his part in repelling the "vandals" should they invade the
+streets of the city. This circumstance sheds light on the real
+situation. With the schoolboys banded together to defend their homes,
+and every house garrisoned in that way, not to mention the regular
+soldiers and the men who were on duty, it is quite certain that Richmond
+would have been an uncomfortable place that night for Preston and his
+little band of heroes. A man's house is his citadel and boys and women
+will fight to defend it.
+
+From Old Church the command moved Wednesday to Tunstall's Station, and
+thence by way of New Kent Courthouse and Williamsburg to Yorktown. At
+Yorktown the various regiments took transports to Washington and from
+Washington marched back to their old camps around Stevensburg, no event
+of importance marking the journey. They arrived on the Rapidan about the
+middle of the month, having been absent two weeks. The men stood the
+experience better than the horses. The animals were weakened and worn
+out and the time remaining before the opening of active operations was
+hardly sufficient for their recuperation.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI
+
+THE WILDERNESS CAMPAIGN
+
+
+In the spring of 1864, the cavalry of the army of the Potomac was
+thoroughly reorganized. Pleasonton, who had been rather a staff officer
+of the general commanding the army than a real chief of cavalry, was
+retired and Sheridan took his place. Kilpatrick was sent to the west and
+James H. Wilson, an engineer officer, succeeded him in command of the
+Third division. Buford's old division, the First, was placed under
+Torbert, an infantry officer whose qualifications as a commander of
+cavalry were not remarkable. There were several of his subordinates who
+were both more capable and more deserving, notably Custer, Merritt and
+Thomas C. Devin. John Buford, the heroic, one of the ablest of all the
+generals of division, had succumbed to the exposures of the previous
+campaign. His death befell in December, 1863, on the very day when he
+received his commission as major-general, a richly deserved reward for
+his splendid and patriotic services in the Gettysburg and other
+campaigns. His death created a void which it was hard to fill. Gregg was
+the only one of the three old and tried division commanders who remained
+with the corps.
+
+Of the generals of brigade, Merritt and Devin remained with their old
+division. Davies was transferred from the Third to the Second, and
+Custer's Michigan brigade became the First brigade of the First
+division, the general going with it.
+
+Pleasonton who was sent to Rosecrans, in Missouri, although perhaps not,
+like his illustrious successor, a cavalry chief of the first rank, had a
+brilliant record, and in the campaign of 1863 had performed most
+meritorious and effective service and certainly deserves a high place in
+the list of union leaders of that period. In all the campaigns of the
+year 1863, he acquitted himself with the highest credit and in many of
+the battles, notably at Chancellorsville, Middleburg and Brandy Station,
+he was an equal match for Stuart and his able lieutenants. If, in the
+readjustment incident to the assumption by General Grant of the chief
+command, Pleasonton could have been permitted to serve loyally under
+Sheridan, who was his junior in rank, it would, doubtless, have been
+better for both of them. He would have been obliged, to be sure, to
+crucify his ambition and waive his rank, but his name might have been
+linked with those of Gregg, and Merritt, and Custer in the record of
+"Little Phil's" picturesque marches from the Wilderness to the James;
+from Harper's Ferry to Cedar Creek; and from Winchester to Appomattox.
+He left the army in whose achievements he had borne so honorable a part,
+and no opportunities for distinction came to him afterwards. Others
+wore the laurels that might have been his.
+
+Soon after his arrival, General Sheridan reviewed the cavalry corps on
+the open ground near Culpeper. There were ten thousand mounted men in
+line, and when they broke into column to pass in review before the
+assembled generals of the army, it was a magnificent spectacle. To this
+day the writer's blood quickens in his veins and a flush of pardonable
+pride mantles his face whenever he recalls the circumstance of one of
+Custer's staff coming to his quarters after the parade, to convey with
+the general's compliments the pleasant information that General Sheridan
+had personally requested him to compliment the officers and men of the
+regiment, on its excellent appearance and soldierly bearing on the
+review. Only a short time before, General Kilpatrick had sent a similar
+message after seeing the regiment at brigade drill. How cheering these
+messages were; and how full of encouragement to the full performance of
+duty in the trying times that were close at hand! Life is not too full
+of such words of cheer, even when we do our best. It is not so much
+admiration as appreciation that one craves from his fellow men,
+especially from those who are by circumstance placed over him. But envy,
+and malice, and a mean, begrudging spirit often stand at the door to
+keep it out, when it would fain enter, bringing the sunshine with it.
+There was nothing narrow or mean about Sheridan. Conscious of his own
+greatness, he was too broad to begrudge recognition to others. When a
+subordinate deserved commendation and Sheridan knew it, he always gave
+it.
+
+Although the movement of the army of the Potomac, which initiated in
+Virginia the campaign of 1864 and resulted in the battle of the
+Wilderness, began on May 3, it was the morning of May 4, when the
+Wolverine troopers left their camp near Culpeper. The Second and Third
+divisions, as has been shown, had the honor of leading the advance and
+preceded the infantry, crossing at Ely's and Germanna fords,
+respectively, on the day before. The First division bivouacked on the
+north side of the river during the night of May 4. At three o'clock on
+the morning of May 5, the march was resumed and, crossing at Ely's ford,
+it moved to Chancellorsville, and was encamped that night at the
+"Furnaces," south of the Orange plank road, about midway between
+Wilderness Church and Todd's Tavern, in the rear of the left of the
+union lines.
+
+Early on the morning of May 6, "boots and saddles" and "to horse"
+summoned the brigade to arms; and at two o'clock a.m., it was on the
+march by the Furnace road toward the intersection of that highway with
+the Brock turnpike. Gregg was at Todd's Tavern, at the junction of the
+Catharpin and Brock roads. Custer was to be the connecting link between
+Gregg's division and Hancock's corps. Devin, with the Second brigade,
+was ordered to report to Custer. Wilson had been out the previous day on
+the Orange plank road and pike, beyond Parker's Store, where he
+encountered Stuart's cavalry and was roughly handled. While moving up
+in the darkness, we came upon the scattered troopers of the First
+Vermont cavalry, which for some time before the redistribution had been
+attached to the Michigan brigade, but was then in Chapman's brigade of
+Wilson's division. They were moving to the rear, and seemed much
+chagrined over their defeat and declared that they did not belong to the
+Third division, but were the "Eighth Michigan."
+
+"Come along with us," said their old Michigan companions-in-arms.
+
+"Wish we could," they replied.
+
+Arriving at his destination before daylight, Custer posted his troops so
+as to be ready to meet the expected attack. Two troops, one from the
+First Michigan the other from the Sixth, commanded by Captain George R.
+Maxwell and Captain Manning D. Birge, respectively, were sent well out
+on the Brock road to picket the front. The line of battle was formed in
+the woods, facing a cleared space, beyond which dense timber served as a
+screen to prevent the enemy's approach from being discovered. The right
+was held by the First and Sixth Michigan, formed in two lines,
+regimental front, the Sixth in rear, the men standing "in place, rest"
+in front of their horses. It was prolonged to the left by the Fifth and
+Seventh Michigan and Devin's brigade, composed of the Fourth, Sixth and
+Ninth New York and Seventeenth Pennsylvania regiments of cavalry. Devin,
+however, did not arrive on the ground until the battle was well under
+way. The right of the line was "in the air," so far as was at that time
+known, the infantry not being in sight.
+
+The open field directly in front extended some 200 yards beyond our
+position, to the right, and it was, perhaps, 500 yards across it to the
+woods. The timber in which we formed extended from the rear clear around
+the right and across the front. In other words, the patch of open ground
+was enclosed on three sides, at least, by dense woods. The alignment
+faced in a westerly direction, and was back in the timber far enough to
+be hidden from the approaching foe. To the right and as it turned out,
+somewhat to the rear, lay the army of the Potomac, which had been
+battling with Lee all the previous day; and orders had been issued for
+the fighting to be resumed at five o'clock in the morning.
+
+Thus we stood, prepared, in a state of expectancy, awaiting the sounds
+that were to summon us to battle.
+
+The brigade band was posted near the left flank of the First Michigan.
+
+General Custer, alert and wary, with a portion of his staff and escort,
+was out inspecting the picket line.
+
+The horse artillery had not yet arrived.
+
+Every trooper was alert and ready for whatever might come.
+
+The field, of which mention has been made, was bisected by a ravine,
+nearly diagonally from left front to right rear, the ground sloping into
+it from front and rear. This ravine was to play a prominent part in the
+battle that ensued.
+
+Suddenly, the signal came. A picket shot was heard, then another, and
+another. Thicker and faster the spattering tones were borne to our ears
+from the woods in front. Then, it was the "rebel yell;" at first faint,
+but swelling in volume as it approached. A brigade of cavalry, led by
+the intrepid Rosser, was charging full tilt toward our position. He did
+not stop to skirmish with the pickets but, charging headlong, drove them
+pell-mell into the reserves, closely following, with intent to stampede
+the whole command.
+
+It was a bold and brilliant dash, but destined to fall short of complete
+success.
+
+Rosser had met his match.
+
+When the confederate charge was sounded, Custer was near his picket line
+and, scenting the first note of danger, turned his horse's head toward
+the point where he had hidden his Wolverines in ambush and, bursting
+into view from the woods beyond the field, we saw him riding furiously
+in our direction. When he neared the edge of the woods, circling to the
+front and curbing the course of his charger as he rode, he bade the band
+to play and, with saber arm extended, shouted to the command, already in
+the saddle:
+
+"Forward, by divisions!"
+
+As the band struck up the inspiriting strains of "Yankee Doodle," the
+First Michigan broke by subdivisions from the right, the Sixth following
+in line, regimental front and the two regiments charged with a yell
+through the thick underbrush out into the open ground just as the
+confederate troopers emerged from the woods on the opposite side. Both
+commands kept on in full career, the First and Sixth inextricably
+intermingled, until they reached the edge of the ravine, when they
+stopped, the confederates surprised by the sudden appearance and
+audacity of the Michigan men and their gallant leader; Custer well
+content with checking Rosser's vicious advance. Some of the foremost of
+either side kept on and crossed sabers in the middle of the ravine.
+Among these was Lieutenant Cortez P. Pendill, of the Sixth Michigan, who
+was severely wounded among the very foremost. One squadron of the
+confederates, possibly a small regiment, charging in column of fours,
+went past our right flank, and then, like the French army that marched
+up a hill and then marched down again, turned and charged back, without
+attempting to turn their head of column towards the place where Custer
+was standing at bay, with his Michiganders clustered thick about him.
+Pretty soon the confederates ran a battery into the field and opened on
+us with shell. Every attempt to break Custer's line, however, ended in
+failure, the Spencer carbines proving too much of an obstacle to be
+overcome.
+
+Meanwhile, the Fifth and Seventh had been doing excellent service on the
+left, forging to the front and threatening the right of the confederate
+position.
+
+But it was evident that our own right was vulnerable, and Custer ordered
+Major Kidd to take the Sixth, move it by the rear to the woods on the
+right, dismount to fight on foot and, to use his own words: "Flank that
+battery."
+
+The regiment had become much scattered in the charge, but the "rally"
+was sounded, and as many men as could be quickly assembled on the
+colors, were withdrawn from the field and, obeying the order with as
+much alacrity as possible, in a few moments they were in position and
+moving forward briskly through the thick woods. But, they had not
+proceeded far, when a strong line of dismounted confederates was
+encountered. Both commanders seem to have ordered a simultaneous
+movement with a similar purpose, viz: To flank the other and attack his
+rear.
+
+The two forces met very nearly on the prolongation of the line held by
+the mounted men of the First, Fifth and Seventh Michigan, east of the
+ravine. The confederate line extended beyond the right of the Sixth as
+far as we could see, and it was at once evident that we were greatly
+outnumbered, and liable to have the right flank turned at any moment.
+The little force stood bravely up to their work, using the Spencers with
+deadly effect, and checking the advance of the confederates in their
+immediate front. Major Charles W. Deane who was helping to direct the
+movement, had his horse shot under him. Seeing that the left of the
+confederates were trying to pass around our right flank, the captain of
+the left troop was directed to hold on to his position and the right was
+"refused" to protect the rear. At the same time an officer was
+dispatched to General Custer with an appeal for reinforcements.
+
+The entire of the Second brigade was now up and a battery which arrived
+on the field after the withdrawal of the Sixth, had been placed in
+position and opened upon the enemy. The battle was still raging in the
+field, but General Custer sent the Fifth Michigan, Colonel Russell A.
+Alger commanding, and the Seventeenth Pennsylvania, Lieutenant Colonel
+J.Q. Anderson commanding, to the relief of the Sixth Michigan.
+
+The reinforcements came none too soon. The confederates, confident in
+their superior numbers, were pressing hard and threatening to envelop us
+completely.
+
+In a solid line of two ranks, with Spencer carbines full shotted, the
+two magnificent regiments deployed into line on our right. Then moving
+forward, by a left half wheel, turned the tables on the too exultant
+foe, and he was forced slowly but surely back. By virtue of his rank
+Colonel Alger was in command of the line and, in response to his
+clear-voiced order, "Steady men, forward," the three regiments, with a
+shout, swept on through the woods, driving everything before them. At
+the same time, the mounted men of the First and Seventh charged the
+force in their front. The enemy, thereupon, gave way in disorder, was
+routed and fled, leaving his dead and wounded in our hands. His repulse
+was complete and crushing and we saw no more of him that day. The
+Michigan men, with the aid of Devin's New York and Pennsylvania
+troopers, had won a signal victory, momentous in its consequences, for
+it saved the union left from a disaster much dreaded, the fear of which
+neutralized one-half of Hancock's corps during the entire day.
+
+No one who witnessed it, can ever forget the superb conduct of Colonel
+Alger and his men when they swung into line on the right of the Sixth
+Michigan and turned a threatened reverse into a magnificent victory.
+
+Among the wounded, besides Lieutenant Pendill, already mentioned, were
+Captain Benjamin F. Rockafellow, of the Sixth Michigan, and Lieutenant
+Alvin N. Sabin, of the Fifth Michigan. All of these officers were
+severely wounded and all behaved with the most conspicuous gallantry.
+
+In the meantime, what was the infantry doing? After Rosser was driven
+from the field, it was found that there was a line of infantry not far
+to the right and rear. Indeed, the left of the infantry line overlapped
+the right of the cavalry. Attention was called to the fact when, after
+the fight, some of the cavalrymen began to straggle to the rear and
+returning, said that the Twenty-sixth Michigan infantry was only a
+little way off, and a good many of the men went over for a brief
+hand-shake with friends therein.
+
+The Twenty-sixth Michigan was in Barlow's division. They had been
+interested listeners to, if not actual witnesses of the cavalry fight.
+The contest between the dismounted men of Rosser's and Custer's commands
+had been almost, if not quite, in their front and occasional shots had
+come their way.
+
+Why did not Barlow, or indeed, Gibbon's entire command, move up at the
+time when the Sixth Michigan cavalry was contending alone with a
+superior force directly in their front?
+
+The answer to that question is in the sealed book which contains the
+reason of Grant's failure in the "Wilderness."
+
+Let us see!
+
+Grant's orders to the corps commanders--Sedgwick, Warren and
+Hancock--were to attack Lee's army at five o'clock a.m., May 6.
+Longstreet had not arrived but was expected up in the morning, and
+prisoners said he would attack the union left. Hancock was directed to
+look out for the left. Barlow's division was posted for that purpose.
+Hancock's corps was divided into two wings, the right wing under Birney
+consisting of the three divisions of Birney, Mott and Getty; the left
+wing of Gibbon's and Barlow's divisions under Gibbon. Barlow, as has
+been seen, was to look out for the left. "The left" was well looked
+after by Sheridan's cavalry for, aside from Custer's two brigades which
+were directly in contact with Barlow's left flank, Gregg's division was
+posted at Todd's Tavern, still farther to the left.
+
+Sedgwick and Warren attacked Ewell at the hour, but were unsuccessful.
+Hancock's assault upon Hill was completely successful, although
+Longstreet arrived in the nick of time to save Hill. But Hancock's
+attack was with his right wing under Birney, and Longstreet struck the
+left of Birney's command. Where were the two divisions of Gibbon, posted
+for the very purpose of looking out for Longstreet?
+
+In General A.A. Humphrey's, "Virginia Campaigns," page 40, we read:
+
+   "At seven a.m., General Hancock sent a staff officer to General
+   Gibbon, informing him of the success of his right wing, and directing
+   him to attack the enemy's right with Barlow's division. This order
+   was only partially obeyed. Had Barlow's division advanced as
+   directed, he (General Hancock) felt confident that the enemy's force
+   would have been defeated. The cause of his failure was probably owing
+   to the expected approach of Longstreet on his (Barlow's) left."
+
+Again:
+
+   "At 8:30 a.m., Hancock began an attack with Birney's wing and
+   Gibbon's division of the left wing."
+
+General Grant, in his memoirs, (pp. 196-197):
+
+   "Hancock was ready to advance, but learning that Longstreet was
+   threatening his left flank, sent a division of infantry, commanded by
+   General Barlow, to cover the approaches by which Longstreet was
+   expected."
+
+General Sheridan, (memoirs, vol. I, pp. 362-363):
+
+   "On the sixth, General Meade became alarmed about his left flank and
+   sent a dispatch, saying: 'Hancock has been heavily pressed and his
+   left turned. You had better draw in your cavalry to protect the
+   trains.'"
+
+And again:
+
+   "On the morning of the sixth, Custer's and Devin's brigades had been
+   severely engaged before I received the above note. They had been most
+   successful in repulsing the enemy's attacks, and I felt that the line
+   could be held. But the despatch from General Hancock was alarming, so
+   I drew all the cavalry close in around Chancellorsville."
+
+Grant's memoirs, once more:
+
+   "The firing was hardly begun when Hancock was informed that the left
+   wing was seriously threatened so as to fully occupy Barlow. The
+   enemy's dismounted cavalry opened on him (sic.) with artillery and
+   pressed forward his skirmish line. The rapid firing of Sheridan's
+   attack helped to confirm the impression that this was a serious flank
+   attack by the enemy. These repeated reports prevented Hancock from
+   throwing his full strength into the attack along the plank road."
+
+"The rapid firing of Sheridan's attack" is good. Sheridan is entitled to
+the credit of placing Custer where he was. But that is all. Sheridan was
+not on the ground to direct the attack in any way; nor was the division
+commander on the ground. It was Custer's attack and it was Custer's
+victory. The only dismounted cavalry that attacked Barlow was Rosser's
+cavalry, and Custer's cavalry was between Rosser and Barlow. The only
+artillery with which the dismounted cavalry opened on Barlow was
+Rosser's battery and Custer and his men were between Barlow and that
+battery. Had Barlow taken the trouble to ascertain what was really going
+on in his front, an easy matter, he would have found that, so far from
+this dismounted cavalry endangering his flank, they had been driven off
+the field in headlong flight, leaving their dead and wounded. There was
+never a moment during the entire day (May 6, 1864,) when Barlow was in
+the slightest danger of being flanked. His failure to advance, enabled
+Longstreet to swing across his front and attack Birney's left, thus
+neutralizing Hancock's victory over Hill. If Barlow and Gibbon had
+advanced as they were ordered to do, they would have struck Longstreet's
+flank and, probably, crushed it.
+
+All of which seems to demonstrate that, in battle, as in the ordinary
+affairs of life, imaginary dangers often trouble us more than those
+which are real.
+
+The fear of being flanked was an ever present terror to the army of the
+Potomac, and the apparition which appeared to McDowell at Manassas, to
+Pope at the Second Bull Run, to Hooker at Chancellorsville, flitted over
+the Wilderness also, and was the principal cause why that campaign was
+not successful.
+
+And then again, General Meade placed too low an estimate upon the value
+of cavalry as a factor in battle and failed utterly to appreciate the
+importance of the presence of Sheridan's troopers upon his left. Had
+Meade and Hancock known Sheridan then, as they knew him a year later,
+when he intercepted the flight of the army of Northern Virginia at Five
+Forks and Sailor's Creek, there would have been in their minds no
+nervous apprehension that Longstreet might reenact in the Wilderness the
+part played at Chancellorsville by Stonewall Jackson. As it was, Grant's
+strategy and Hancock's heroism were paralyzed by these false rumors
+about Longstreet's menacing the safety of the Potomac army by moving
+against its left and rear. If such a thing was seriously intended, it
+was met and thwarted by Custer and Gregg who, alone and unaided as at
+Gettysburg, successfully resisted every effort on the part of Stuart's
+cavalry to break through the union lines. The noise of the successful
+battle which the union cavalry was waging, instead of reassuring the
+federal commanders as it should have done, served only to increase the
+alarm which extended to General Hancock and to army headquarters, as
+well. If a proper rating had been placed upon the services of the
+cavalry all apprehension would have been quieted. Barlow and Gibbon
+would have moved promptly to the front as directed, and Hill and Ewell
+might have been crushed before Longstreet was in position to save them.
+
+General Sheridan's report gives a very meager and inadequate account of
+the cavalry fight in the Wilderness. In his book he dismisses it with a
+paragraph. Major McClellan, Stuart's adjutant general, in his "Campaigns
+of Stuart's Cavalry," makes no mention of it at all, though he devotes
+much space to Rosser's victory over Wilson, on the fifth. That is not
+strange, perhaps, in the case of the confederate chronicler, who set out
+in his book to write eulogiums upon his own hero, and not upon Sheridan
+or Custer. He has a keen eye for confederate victories and, if he has
+knowledge of any other, does not confess to it. As for Sheridan, his
+corps was scattered over a wide area, its duty to guard the left flank
+and all the trains, and he was not present in person when Custer put an
+abrupt stop to Rosser's impetuous advance. It is now known that he was
+so hampered by interference from army headquarters that his plans
+miscarried, and the relations between himself and his immediate superior
+became so strained that the doughty little warrior declared that he
+would never give the cavalry corps another order. By General Grant's
+intervention, however, these difficulties were so far reconciled that
+Sheridan was soon off on his memorable campaign which resulted in the
+bloody battle of Yellow Tavern and the death of the foremost confederate
+cavalier, General J.E.B. Stuart.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII
+
+THE YELLOW TAVERN CAMPAIGN
+
+
+The sequel to the false alarm about Hancock's left flank being turned
+was that all the cavalry was drawn in to guard the trains and protect
+the rear of the army. Custer's brigade moved back to the furnaces where
+it remained during the night. The morning of the seventh he was ordered
+to resume his position of the day before. Gregg's division was returned
+to Todd's Tavern. Before the arrival of Gregg's command the First
+Michigan cavalry had a spirited encounter with Fitzhugh Lee, in which
+Captain Brevoort, in command of the mounted men, particularly
+distinguished himself. There was pretty sharp fighting during the entire
+day, mostly on foot, the nature of the ground practically precluding
+movements on horseback.
+
+The engagement of the cavalry on the seventh of May is known in history
+as the battle of Todd's Tavern. It was made necessary in order to retake
+the position surrendered by Meade's order of the sixth. Much blood was
+shed and many valuable lives were lost in retrieving the error. In the
+events of the two days may be found a good illustration of the rule that
+an officer (even a great soldier like Sheridan) must obey orders, right
+or wrong. Sheridan must have known that there was no need to withdraw
+his cavalry from the left of the army. On the contrary he knew that by
+all means it ought to remain where it was. Yet he obeyed and had to
+fight an offensive battle to regain what he was thus forced to give
+away. The conditions of the two days were reversed. On the morning of
+the sixth Sheridan was in possession and Stuart was trying to drive him
+out. On the morning of the seventh Stuart was in possession and Sheridan
+had to drive him out. The material difference was that Stuart failed,
+Sheridan succeeded. Sheridan outgeneraled Stuart in both offensive and
+defensive tactics. The names of the respective chiefs are given here
+but, on the sixth the actual fighting of the union forces was directed
+by Custer and Gregg, of the confederates by Rosser and Fitzhugh Lee; on
+the seventh, by Gregg, Merritt and Custer for the federal side, by
+Fitzhugh Lee on the part of the confederates. Gregg and Custer stood
+together in the Wilderness as they had done at Gettysburg. At Todd's
+Tavern Merritt, Davies and Devin were added to the combination. And it
+was one that neither Stuart, Fitzhugh Lee nor Hampton was ever able to
+match.
+
+At night the First and Second divisions were encamped in the open fields
+east of Todd's Tavern, and in front of the positions held by them during
+the previous two days. Mounted pickets and patrols guarded the front and
+it soon became apparent that a movement of both armies was in progress.
+From front and rear came significant sounds which the practiced ear had
+no difficulty in interpreting. Grant, breaking off successively from his
+right, was passing by the rear to the left, concentrating around Todd's
+Tavern for a forward movement in the morning towards Spottsylvania
+Courthouse. The principle involved was to maneuver Lee out of the
+Wilderness into more open country by threatening his communications.
+Once again his strategic plans were thwarted by the faulty manner in
+which the tactics of the movement were executed. Sheridan had planned to
+seize Spottsylvania with his cavalry and his orders were for all three
+divisions to move at daylight with that end in view. Wilson was to lead
+and be followed up and supported by Merritt and Gregg with the First and
+Second divisions. We shall see how Wilson was successful in carrying out
+his part of the plan, but how the others were stopped by orders from
+Meade, thus preventing the accomplishment of a well conceived enterprise
+and neutralizing two-thirds of the cavalry corps just when it was about
+to open the way to victory.
+
+By his peculiar tactical night movement Grant held his line of battle
+intact except as the various corps broke successively from right to rear
+to march to the left. Thus Hancock's corps, though on the extreme left,
+was the last corps to move.
+
+Lee, quick to divine the purpose of his adversary, moved his army by the
+right flank on a parallel line. All night long the ears of the alert
+cavalrymen could catch the indistinct murmur of troops moving with
+their impediments which, coming from both front and rear, bespoke the
+grand tactics of both commanders and presaged a great battle on the
+morrow. The "pop," "pop," "pop," of the carbines along the line of
+videttes was well nigh continuous, showing the proximity of the enemy's
+prowling patrols and scouts, and the necessity of constant vigilance. So
+closely did the confederates approach the outposts that there was
+unceasing fear of an attack and neither officers nor men were able to
+obtain much rest. To sleep was out of the question. The First Michigan
+was held in readiness to make a mounted charge, while the other
+regiments were under orders to deploy dismounted, in case the attack
+which was looked for should be made. The officers of the First could be
+heard encouraging and instructing their men, keeping them alert and
+prepared for battle.
+
+From the time of the organization of the Michigan brigade, the First
+regiment had been designated as distinctively a saber regiment, the
+Fifth and Sixth for fighting on foot, as they were armed with Spencer
+rifles, and the result was that with them, dismounting to fight when in
+contact with the enemy in the early part of their terms of service
+became a sort of second nature. The First had a year's experience with
+the cavalry before the others went out, and it was in a saber charge at
+the Second Bull Run battle that Brodhead its first colonel was killed.
+The First Vermont, like the First Michigan, was a saber regiment and
+went out in 1861. When this regiment was attached to the brigade, Custer
+had three saber regiments, and it fell to the lot of the Fifth and Sixth
+Michigan to be selected more often than the others, perhaps, for
+dismounted duty. It often happened, however, that the entire brigade
+fought dismounted at the same time; and sometimes, though not often, all
+would charge together mounted. Owing to the nature of the country, most
+of the fighting in Grant's campaign from the Wilderness to the James was
+done on foot. In the Shenandoah valley campaign in the latter part of
+the year 1864, the reverse was the case and at the battles of Tom's
+Brook, Winchester and Cedar Creek the troopers in the command for the
+most part kept to the saddle throughout the engagements.
+
+When Custer wanted to put a single regiment into a mounted charge he
+generally selected the First Michigan, because it was not only older and
+more experienced but had many officers who possessed both great personal
+daring and the rare ability to handle men in action, keeping them well
+together so as to support each other and accomplish results. This
+regiment was not excelled by any other in the army for that purpose. The
+Seventh was an under study for the First. The Fifth and Sixth worked
+well together on the skirmish line or dismounted line of battle and had
+no superiors in this kind of work. That they were pretty reliable when
+called upon mounted also, is shown by the conduct of the Sixth in the
+Wilderness and of the Fifth at Trevillian Station. It is only necessary
+to mention the gallantry of the Seventh at Hanovertown and at Yellow
+Tavern to demonstrate that it was an apt pupil of the First. All the
+officers and all the men of the Fifth, Sixth and Seventh took off their
+hats and gracefully yielded the palm to the First. It is doubtful if
+there was another regiment in the federal cavalry service which
+contained so many officers highly marked for their fearless intrepidity
+in action. The circumstance of their talking to their men before an
+expected engagement was characteristic. They were always ready to face
+the peril and lead their men.
+
+Later in the evening, away to the left where the infantry was going into
+bivouac a union band began to play a patriotic air. This was the signal
+for loud and prolonged cheering. Then a confederate band opposite
+responded with one of their southern tunes and the soldiers on that side
+cheered. Successively, from left to right and from right to left this
+was taken up, music and cheering alternating between federals and
+confederates, the sounds receding and growing fainter and fainter as the
+distance increased until they died away entirely. It was a most
+remarkable and impressive demonstration under the circumstances and
+lingered long in the memory of those who heard it.
+
+Though the fighting on the 5th, 6th and 7th had been for the most part
+favorable to the union troopers, it was disjointed and, therefore,
+neither decisive nor as effective as it might have been. Sheridan
+believed that the cavalry corps should operate as a compact
+organization, a distinct entity, an integral constituent of the army,
+the same as the other corps. He looked upon his relation to the general
+in command as being precisely the same as that of Hancock, Sedgwick or
+Warren, and insisted that orders to the cavalry should be given through
+the cavalry corps commander just as orders to the Second corps were
+given through General Hancock. He could not bring himself to consent to
+be a mere staff officer dangling at the heels of General Meade, but
+conceived himself to be an actual commander, not in name only but in
+fact.
+
+Proceeding on this theory he issued orders to the various division
+commanders to move at daylight on the morning of May 8, and cooperate
+with each other under his personal direction in a plan which he had
+devised to seize Spottsylvania Courthouse in advance of Lee's infantry.
+They were to advance on converging roads in such a manner as to arrive
+successively but to support each other and open a way for the infantry
+columns. Wilson crossed Corbin's bridge, charged through the town
+driving out some of Fitzhugh Lee's cavalrymen and pursuing them several
+miles beyond. Merritt and Gregg made a good start and if they had been
+allowed to proceed would have had no difficulty in accomplishing what
+Sheridan desired to have them do. But without notice to Sheridan, Meade
+countermanded the orders to those two officers directing them to halt
+at the bridges and not cross. The result was that Wilson was isolated,
+Merritt's cavalry became inextricably entangled with Warren's infantry,
+so that neither one of them reached Spottsylvania, as they were both
+expected to do, Gregg was neutralized, Wilson's safety jeoparded,
+Sheridan's combinations broken up without his knowledge, and the way was
+left open for Lee's infantry, so that Anderson with Longstreet's corps
+took advantage of the situation and drove Wilson out and took
+possession--thus paving the way for Lee to form a defensive line there
+instead of farther south, probably inside the defenses of Richmond. Then
+it befell that a series of bloody battles had to be fought to regain
+what was thus foolishly surrendered; to regain what indeed might have
+been held with slight loss, if Sheridan had been let alone, and
+permitted to have his way. If he had been given a free hand, and
+assuming that Warren, Burnside, Sedgwick and Hancock would have carried
+out their part of the program with the same zeal and skill displayed by
+Sheridan, it is certain that the battle of Spottsylvania with its
+"bloody angle" would never have taken place.
+
+The affair was a fiasco, but for that no blame can be attached to either
+Sheridan or Grant, unless the latter be considered blameworthy for not
+directing the movements in person instead of leaving the tactics of the
+battle to be worked out by Meade.
+
+Once more, as in the Wilderness, the cavalry was drawn in. The entire
+corps was massed in rear of the infantry and rendered inert. Sheridan
+with his ten thousand troopers was held idle and inactive while Warren,
+Sedgwick and Burnside were given the task of defeating Lee's veteran
+army without Sheridan's help. All his plans were rendered nugatory. He
+became satisfied that his efforts were useless. About noon he went to
+Meade's headquarters and they had an interview which is one of the
+famous historical episodes of the civil war. He told Meade that,
+inasmuch as his plans were to be interfered with, his orders
+countermanded, thus destroying the efficiency and usefulness of the
+cavalry corps, he must decline to give it further orders and General
+Meade could take it and run it himself, as he evidently desired to do.
+He kept his poise, however, sufficiently to intimate that he would like
+an opportunity to take his corps and go out after Stuart, since he
+believed he could whip Stuart in a fair fight if he could have a chance.
+Meade reported this conversation to Grant who told Meade to let him go
+and try. Grant had confidence enough in Sheridan to believe that he
+would make his word good.
+
+The outcome of this was that the entire corps was ordered that very
+afternoon to concentrate at Alrich's, on the plank road leading to
+Fredericksburg, and be prepared to start at daylight on an expedition
+around Lee's right flank, into the enemy's country. It was to be a
+second edition, only on a much larger scale, and under a very different
+commander, of the Kilpatrick raid, an account of which was given in a
+previous chapter. The route selected was very much the same. But,
+unlike Kilpatrick and others who had led cavalry expeditions up to that
+time, and whose idea was to ride rapidly through the country and avoid
+the enemy as much as possible, never fighting unless forced into it
+unwillingly, Sheridan went out with the utmost deliberation, looking for
+trouble--seeking it--and desiring before every other thing to find
+Stuart and fight him on his native heath. The confidence which he
+manifested in himself and in the prowess of his command was of its own
+kind, and a distinct revelation to the army of the Potomac, in which it
+had long been a settled article of belief that Stuart was invincible
+and, indeed, up to that time he had been well nigh so, as Sheridan
+points out in his memoirs.
+
+In the meantime, the battle was raging around Spottsylvania. Lee's army
+was getting into position, his various corps concentrating and
+intrenching, and making every preparation for a new base and a stout
+resistance. Grant's plans had all miscarried, thus far. Still, he had
+taken up his bridges and resolved to fight it out on that line. It was
+already evident that there was to be no more retreating. The officers
+and men of the army of the Potomac made up their minds that they had
+crossed the Rapidan and the Rappahannock for the last time and that Lee
+would never be permitted to make a permanent halt outside the
+intrenchments of Richmond.
+
+When the long column was marching along the rear of the army, the
+sounds of the battle going on could be distinctly heard. Hundreds of
+wounded men were coming from the front, mostly so slightly injured that
+they were helping themselves off the field to a place of safety where
+they could receive needed treatment. It filled us with astonishment to
+see the number of them. The official records show that Grant lost more
+than ten thousand men in the series of battles around Spottsylvania. It
+seemed wicked to take ten thousand men well mounted and equipped away
+from the army at such a time as that. Queer ideas Meade had. And queerer
+still that Grant should have yielded to him in a matter of such vital
+importance. And the men that Sheridan was taking away, were the very
+same troops with whom he broke Early's flank at Winchester; and who
+stood like a stone wall in the way of Early's advance at Cedar Creek
+after two corps of infantry had been routed, only a few months later.
+Just imagine for a moment what might have been the result if Sheridan
+had been permitted to make the same use of his cavalry in the Wilderness
+or at Spottsylvania which he made of it at Winchester and Cedar Creek.
+
+We camped at Alrich's for the night. And it was Sunday night. It will be
+remembered that the Kilpatrick expedition left Stevensburg on Sunday
+night. Three days' rations were drawn and issued to the men. There was
+but one-half of one day's ration of grain for the horses. So it was
+settled that our animals would have to depend on the country for their
+forage. The force thus assembled consisted of three divisions--about
+ten thousand troopers--under Merritt, Gregg and Wilson--seven brigades
+commanded by Custer, Devin, Gibbs, Davies, Irvin Gregg, McIntosh and
+Chapman. These were all veteran officers, often tried and never found
+wanting. Of these brigade commanders, two, Custer and Davies, held the
+rank of brigadier general; Devin was colonel of the Sixth New York;
+Gibbs of the First New York dragoons; Gregg of the Sixteenth
+Pennsylvania; McIntosh of the Third Pennsylvania; Chapman of the Third
+Indiana.
+
+There were six batteries of artillery, all regulars but one--the Sixth
+New York independent--Captain J.W. Martin. Pennington was still with the
+Third division, as was the First Vermont cavalry also. The four Michigan
+regiments were commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Peter Stagg, Colonel
+Russell A. Alger, Major James H. Kidd and Major Henry W. Granger,
+respectively.
+
+The movement began at an early hour. The start was made long before
+daylight. General Custer, who was to lead, ordered that the Sixth
+Michigan move out first and thus it fell to my lot to be in the van at
+the outset of that historic expedition. A guide was furnished, with
+directions that the route taken be by the plank road to Tabernacle
+church, thence to the Telegraph road running from Fredericksburg to
+Richmond, then due south toward Thornburg. The long column wound its way
+slowly out of the wilderness on a single road, marching by fours,
+Merritt in front, Gregg in rear, Wilson in the centre--seven brigades
+and six batteries--beyond doubt the most superb force of mounted men
+that ever had been assembled under one leader on this continent, and a
+more formidable body of horse than had been seen in that war on either
+side, up to that time, or was ever seen afterwards. The column when
+stretched out like a huge snake was thirteen miles in length, so that
+when the last of Gregg's regiments turned south on the Telegraph road,
+the head of Custer's brigade must have been nearing Chilesburg.
+
+The night was clear and quiet; the air was soft and refreshing. To the
+right the two great armies were sleeping. There was no note of bugle, no
+boom of cannon, no crack of rifle to disturb the tranquility of the
+night. As the dawn approached the baying of dogs in the distance gave
+notice that the echoes of the march would soon reach the ears of the
+enemy's outposts.
+
+But the morning was far advanced, the head of column well on its way
+past the right flank of Lee's army, when the first hostile patrols were
+encountered. At a crossroad leading to the right a small force of
+cavalry made its appearance. It was put to flight by Captain Birge with
+troop A. At this point troop E, Captain A.E. Tower, was sent to the
+front as advance guard, Sergeant M.E. Avery with eight men going ahead
+with orders to charge any enemy that appeared on the road, the troop to
+follow him closely and the regiment to support the troop. General Custer
+with his staff and escort rode close up to the rear of the regiment.
+Behind him came the other Michigan regiments, Devin's and Gibbs's
+brigades, then Chapman, McIntosh, Irvin Gregg, and Davies in succession.
+Davies was to look out for the rear. Thus the latter, who led the
+Kilpatrick expedition, found his position reversed on this. The
+responsibility was great and he met it with his accustomed courage and
+ability. Davies was one of the few men who early in the war found his
+niche and stuck to it. He was an ideal general of brigade; and he kept
+his place as such without a check until the war closed.
+
+[Illustration: ANGELO E. TOWER]
+
+To those of us who had been with Kilpatrick but a short two months
+before the contrast presented by a mental comparison of Sheridan's
+manner of conducting a march with that of his predecessor was most
+marked and suggestive. This movement was at a slow walk, deliberate and
+by easy stages. So leisurely was it that it did not tax the endurance of
+men or horses. There was a steadiness about it that calmed the nerves,
+strengthened self-reliance, and inspired confidence. It was a bold
+challenge for the confederates to come out and fight a duel to the
+finish. That they would be compelled to take up the gage thus thrown
+down there was no shadow of doubt.
+
+The advance guard was kept active in the pursuit of confederate scouts
+and pickets, small bodies of whom were constantly appearing in front or
+hovering on the flanks. Before reaching the point where the road
+leading to Beaver Dam was to be taken, the guide, either by ignorance
+or design, misled Avery and his men and took them to the eastward. Avery
+suspecting something wrong put a halter around the guide's neck and
+started to swing him up to the limb of a tree. He immediately discovered
+his mistake and a trooper was sent with word to take the other road, who
+reached the intersection just as the head of column did, so there was
+not a moment's delay. Avery soon came in with a squad of prisoners who
+with the guide were turned over to the provost guard. After reaching
+Chilesburg we were on the same road over which we marched with
+Kilpatrick and needed no guide. The confederate prisoners looked with
+astonishment upon this big body of cavalry which had stolen into their
+territory like a thief in the night, unexpected and unannounced.
+
+During the day, as long as I had the advance, Captain Craig Wadsworth of
+Sheridan's staff rode by my side to represent and report to his chief.
+No very important incident happened, but the weather was pleasant, the
+air was exhilarating, the companionship was congenial, and there was
+sufficient of excitement to make it interesting. Things were kept
+moving, and it was very enjoyable, as service with the advance of a
+marching column always is.
+
+Late in the afternoon we passed Chilesburg and the country began to have
+a familiar look. It was not yet dark when we crossed the North Anna
+river at Anderson's bridge and the First division prepared to bivouac
+on the south side. Gregg and Wilson went into camp for the night north
+of the river.
+
+After crossing the river, Custer was ordered to proceed with his brigade
+to Beaver Dam station. Here the First Michigan was given the advance,
+Major Melvin Brewer with one battalion as advance guard. The Sixth
+followed the First. Otherwise the order of march was the same as during
+the day. A mile or so before reaching Beaver Dam, Brewer came upon
+several hundred union prisoners who were being hurried under the escort
+of confederate infantry to the station, where trains were waiting to
+convey them to Richmond. His appearance, of course, resulted in the
+release of the prisoners, those of their guards who did not succeed in
+escaping by running away in the woods being captured. The engineers
+began to sound their locomotive whistles, as a signal for the
+confederate escort to hurry up with their prisoners, and Brewer followed
+by the First and Sixth dashed into the station before the presence of
+the Michiganders was suspected, taking them by surprise and capturing
+the two locomotives with their trains. In a few minutes Custer with the
+entire brigade was on the ground and it was found that, besides the
+trains, he had captured an immense quantity of commissary, medical, and
+other stores belonging to Lee's supply departments and which included
+nearly all his medical supplies. Everything that could not be carried
+away was destroyed. While this destruction was going on some
+confederates made their appearance in the adjacent woods and opened
+fire but they were driven away without much trouble. This must have been
+a very severe loss to the confederates.
+
+The brigade then marched away and rejoined the division, every trooper
+having his horse loaded to the limit with such supplies as he thought he
+could use. General Merritt in his official report refers to this
+destruction of property as a mistake and characterizes the action as
+"gaucherie." It is, however, quite certain that the only way to have
+saved the supplies for issue to the corps would have been to move the
+division to Beaver Dam that night, for Stuart was concentrating his
+force at that point and might have been able to reclaim a portion of
+them if they had not been destroyed. At all events, Custer was on the
+ground and Merritt was not. Custer's action must have been approved by
+his judgment.
+
+Early on the morning of May 10 the march was resumed by the Negrofoot
+road toward Groundsquirrel bridge across the South Anna river. It was
+even more leisurely than on the day before. Flankers were thrown out in
+both directions. The long column of fours thus proceeded slowly by the
+road while to the right and to the left, about 500 yards out, were
+parallel columns of flankers, marching by file, thus assuring that
+should the enemy attack either flank, it was only necessary to wheel by
+fours in that direction to be in line of battle with a very strong line
+of skirmishers well out in front.
+
+But Stuart did not attack. He seems on that morning to have begun to
+comprehend Sheridan's plan which was no doubt then sufficiently puzzling
+but, as we can see now, very simple. In a word, a slow and steady march,
+straight toward the confederate capital, all the time in position to
+accept battle should Stuart offer it. If he should not, to hold to the
+unyielding tenor of his purpose, and with exasperating persistence
+continue to invite it. Stuart had turned off toward the east and was
+making a forced march with Fitzhugh Lee's division, consisting of the
+brigades of Lomax and Wickham, Gordan's brigade still hanging on to the
+rear of Sheridan's column. Our column made the march of eighteen miles
+to Groundsquirrel bridge without molestation and camped there that night
+on the south side of the river. Stuart after a much longer march went
+into camp at Hanover Junction. At one o'clock in the morning May 11 he
+moved out toward Yellow Tavern, arriving there at about ten o'clock in
+the forenoon, before Sheridan's advance, which was headed in the same
+direction, made its appearance. Stuart had thus by a long and hard march
+brought his command where it could interpose between the Union cavalry
+and Richmond. He seems, however, to have been halting between two
+opinions--whether to form squarely across Sheridan's front or to hold
+his position on the flank until near enough to Richmond to be within
+reach of reinforcements from the troops that were being hurried into the
+city from the south to aid in the defense. He appears to have chosen
+the latter alternative, for he formed his command in a line running
+north and south, facing west, Wickham on the right, Lomax on the left
+with batteries near both his right and left flanks. The left of his line
+crossed the Telegraph road in front of Yellow Tavern where was quite an
+elevated piece of ground on which across the road was a battery well
+stationed and well manned. His men, however, must have been pretty well
+exhausted by the long march.
+
+Yellow Tavern, which gave its name to the battle that ensued, is a
+hamlet at the junction of the Telegraph and Old Mountain roads, about
+six miles north of Richmond, where the first named road coalesces and
+becomes the Brook Turnpike, as I understand it. The Old Mountain road
+comes down from the northwest, the Telegraph road from the east of
+north. Sheridan struck the former at Allen's Station on the
+Fredericksburg railroad and followed it to Yellow Tavern. The Reserve
+brigade reached that place a little before noon and finding Stuart in
+possession immediately began skirmishing. Devin came up next and was put
+on the line to reinforce Gibbs. When Custer's brigade came up pretty
+sharp skirmish firing could be heard in front. Merritt was in charge and
+the battle was on. Stuart had dismounted his entire force and formed
+them in a very strong defensive position on a commanding ridge beyond
+the tavern. Merritt had dismounted a portion of Gibbs's and Devin's
+commands and was feeling of Stuart's position. Custer's regiments as
+they successively arrived were massed mounted in column of battalions
+on the right of the road, in a field, thus clearing the road. The march
+that day had been an easy one, the rest the night before had been
+complete, and never were men and horses in better condition or spirits
+for battle than were Sheridan's troopers.
+
+[Illustration: PHILIP H. SHERIDAN]
+
+Then there was an anxious pause. Glancing back I saw that we were at the
+rear of the division. Down the road about 100 yards a column of cavalry
+was approaching very slowly. Something at the head of the column
+attracted my particular attention and in a moment I made out that it was
+a general's battle flag. But I did not recognize it as one that I had
+seen before. There were a good many staff officers and a pretty large
+escort. As they came opposite the regiment, the officer at the head
+looked back and saw that the flag was hanging limp around the staff,
+there not being air enough stirring to make it float out. He noted this
+and said to the color bearer, "Shake out those colors so they can be
+seen." The voice was mild and agreeable. The color-bearer did as
+directed and the general looked our way with a keen glance that was
+characteristic and took in every detail. Then instantly I knew who he
+was. I saluted and said, "Men, General Sheridan," and they gave him a
+cheer.
+
+That was the first time I had seen Sheridan except as I "looked toward"
+him when passing in review. One may do a good deal of service, even be
+in many skirmishes and battles without getting a good look at the corps
+commander, much less the commander of the army. There was nothing about
+Sheridan's appearance at first glance to mark him as the principal
+figure in the scene. Except for the fact that he rode in front one might
+have mistaken one of the other officers for chief. But close inspection
+easily singled him out. He was well mounted and sat his horse like a
+real cavalryman. Though short in stature he did not appear so on
+horseback. His stirrups were high up, the shortness being of leg and not
+of trunk. He wore a peculiar style of hat not like that of any other
+officer. He was square of shoulder and there was plenty of room for the
+display of a major general's buttons on his broad chest. His face was
+strong, with a firm jaw, a keen eye, and extraordinary firmness in every
+lineament. In his manner there was an alertness, evinced rather in look
+than in movement. Nothing escaped his eye, which was brilliant and
+searching and at the same time emitted flashes of kindly good nature.
+When riding among or past his troopers, he had a way of casting quick,
+comprehensive glances to the right and left and in all directions. He
+overlooked nothing. One had a feeling that he was under close and
+critical observation, that Sheridan had his eye on him, was mentally
+taking his measure and would remember and recognize him the next time.
+No introduction was needed.
+
+It would be as difficult to describe the exact physical traits that
+marked Sheridan's personality as to make a list of the characteristic
+mental attributes that distinguished him from others. There were
+perhaps no special, single, salient points. At least none were
+abnormally developed. In making an estimate of the man it was the
+ensemble of his qualities that had to be considered. He had to be taken
+"all in all." So taken, he was Sheridan. He was not another, or like
+another. There was no soldier of the civil war with whom he fairly can
+be compared with justice to either. As a tactician on the field of
+battle he had no equal, with the possible exception of "Stonewall"
+Jackson. In this respect he to my mind more nearly resembled John
+Churchill, the great duke of Marlborough, than any other historical
+character of modern times of whom I have any knowledge. If he had not
+the spark of genius, he came very near to having it. This is a personal
+judgment put down here, the writer trusts, with becoming modesty and
+with no desire to put himself forward as a military critic.
+
+Sheridan was modest as he was brave, reticent of his plans, not inclined
+to exploit his own merits, and he did not wear his heart or his mind
+upon his sleeve. His inmost thoughts were his own. What impressed us at
+this first sight of him was his calm, unruffled demeanor, his freedom
+from excitement, his poise, his apparently absolute confidence in
+himself and his troops, his masterful command of the situation. He rode
+away toward the front as quietly as he had come from the rear, with no
+blare of bugles, no brandishing of swords, no shouting of orders, no
+galloping of horses. In his bearing was the assurance that he was going
+to accomplish what he had pledged himself to do. He had found Stuart and
+was leisurely going forward to see for himself, to make an analysis of
+his adversary's position, and, so far as necessary, to give personal
+direction to the coming conflict. But he was in no hurry about it and
+there was in his face and manner no hint of doubt or inquietude. The
+outcome was to him a foregone conclusion.
+
+Such was our chief and such was the beginning of the battle from which
+dates his fame as a cavalry leader and independent commander of the
+first rank.
+
+Merritt and Custer were already at the front. Experience taught us that
+sharp work was at hand. It was not long delayed. The order came from
+General Custer for the Fifth and Sixth to dismount to fight on foot. The
+First and Seventh were held in reserve mounted. Not having visited this
+battle field since that day I am unable to give a very accurate
+description of its topographical features and shall not attempt to do
+so. The published maps do not throw a very clear light upon the matter,
+neither do the official reports. I am in doubt as to whether the
+Telegraph road and Brook turnpike are synonymous terms after passing
+Yellow Tavern or whether the former lies east of the latter. As I have
+shown, Stuart's line ran along the Telegraph road, the right north of
+Half Sink, the left on a hill near Yellow Tavern. My authority for this
+is McClellan. Lomax held the left and had two pieces of artillery
+posted "immediately in the road;" one piece behind them "on a hill on
+the left." This would make his line extend due north and south and our
+approach to attack it must have been from the west. Devin in his report
+says Stuart was driven off the Brook pike to a position 500 yards east
+of it. Whether that was at the beginning or near the close of the
+engagement is not quite clear. If the former, then the line referred to
+by Major McClellan could not have been on the Brook turnpike. I shall
+have to deal in general terms, therefore, and not be as specific and
+lucid as I would like to be in describing Custer's part in the battle.
+
+Just where the Michigan regiments were posted at the time they were
+ordered into the fight I cannot say. They came down toward Yellow Tavern
+on the Old Mountain road and I have no recollection of crossing the
+pike. It seems to me that they must have been west of it. We were moved
+across the road, from where stationed when Sheridan came up, and
+deployed in the woods, the Sixth on the right of the Fifth. The line
+advanced and presently reached a fence in front of which was a field.
+Beyond the field, and to the left of it were woods. In the woods beyond
+the field were the dismounted confederate cavalry. Skirmishing began
+immediately across the field, each line behind a fence. After a little,
+Captain Bayles of Custer's staff came from the right with an order to
+move the Sixth by the left flank and take position on the left of the
+Fifth. Just as he was giving this order a great shout arose to the left
+and, looking in that direction, we saw that the entire of the Fifth
+cavalry was climbing the fence and starting for a charge across the
+field. The Sixth instantly caught the infection and, before I could say
+"aye, yes or no," both regiments were yelling and firing and advancing
+on the enemy in the opposite woods. "You can't stop them," said Bayles.
+I agreed and in a moment had joined my brave men who were leading me
+instead of my leading them.
+
+The wisdom and necessity of Custer's order was, however, immediately
+apparent. Some confederates lurking in the woods to the left, opened
+fire into the flank of the Fifth Michigan, which for the moment
+threatened serious consequences. The line halted and there was temporary
+confusion. Quicker than it takes to tell it, Custer had appeared in the
+field mounted. One of Alger's battalions changed front and charged into
+the woods on the left and the two regiments advanced and drove the enemy
+clear through and out of the woods in front. Barring the temporary
+check, it was a most gallant and successful affair, for which Custer
+gave the two regiments full credit in his official report.
+
+The line was then reformed with the Sixth on the left of the Fifth. At
+that time this was the extreme left of the First division and of the
+line of battle as well, the Third division not yet having become
+engaged.
+
+It was then found that the force with which we had been fighting had
+retreated to their main line of battle, along a high ridge or bluff. In
+front of this bluff was a thin skirt of timber and a fence. Here
+Fitzhugh Lee's sharpshooters were posted in a very strong position
+indeed. Between the ridge and the edge of the woods where our line was
+halted was a big field not less than four hundred yards across, sloping
+down from their position to ours. To attack the confederate line in
+front it would be necessary to advance across that field and up that
+slope. It looked difficult. The confederate artillery was stationed to
+the right front on the extreme left of their line. We were confronted by
+Lomax's brigade. Beyond the right of the Fifth Michigan, Custer had the
+First Michigan, Colonel Stagg; the Seventh, Major Granger; and First
+Vermont, Lieutenant Colonel Preston; all mounted. They were across a
+road which ran at right angles with the line of battle, and in the
+direction of Lomax's battery.
+
+As soon as our line appeared in the open--indeed, before it left the
+woods the confederate artillery opened with shell and shrapnel; the
+carbineers and sharpshooters joined with zest in the fray and the man
+who thinks they did not succeed in making that part of the neighborhood
+around Yellow Tavern an uncomfortably hot place, was not there at the
+time. It was necessary to take advantage of every chance for shelter.
+Every Wolverine who exposed himself was made a target of. Many men were
+hit by bullets. The artillerists did not time their fuses right and most
+of the damage was done to the trees behind us, or they were on too high
+ground to get the range. The line gradually advanced, creeping forward
+little by little until it reached a partial shelter afforded by the
+contour of the ground where it sloped sharply into a sort of ditch that
+was cut through the field parallel with the line of battle. Here it
+halted and the battle went on in this manner for a long time, possibly
+for hours. In the meantime, Chapman's brigade, of Wilson's division, had
+come into position on the left of the Sixth Michigan, thus prolonging
+the line and protecting our flank which till then had been in the air
+and much exposed. Off to the left, in front of Chapman, the lay of the
+land was more favorable. There were woods, the ground was more nearly
+level. The confederate position was not so difficult of approach and
+gradually his left began to swing forward and threaten the right flank
+of Lomax's position or, more accurately, the confederate center.
+
+Thus for several hours the lines faced each other without decisive
+results. At length Sheridan determined upon an assault by mounted troops
+supported by those on foot. To Custer was assigned the important duty of
+leading this assault. It was toward four o'clock when Sergeant Avery who
+had as quick an intuitive perception in battle as any man I ever knew,
+and whose judgment was always excellent and his suggestions of great
+value, called my attention to what appeared to be preparations for a
+mounted charge over to the right where General Custer was with his
+colors. "They are going to charge, major," said Avery, "and the instant
+they start will be the time for us to advance." That is what was done.
+The regiment forming for the charge was the First Michigan. Two
+squadrons under Major Howrigan led the vanguard. The bugles sounded,
+"forward," "trot," "charge." Heaton's battery farther over was served
+with splendid effect. Custer's staff passed the word along for the
+entire line to advance. There was no hesitation. The Fifth and Sixth and
+Chapman's regiments sprang forward with a shout. There was a gallant
+advance up the slope. Fitzhugh Lee's men held on grimly as long as they
+could, but there was no check to the charge. Howrigan kept on till he
+was among the guns sabering the cannoneers, capturing the two pieces in
+the road with their limbers and ammunition. In a few minutes Custer and
+Chapman were in possession of the ridge and the entire line of the enemy
+was in full retreat. Back about 500 yards the enemy attempted to make a
+stand and the Seventh Michigan was ordered to charge. This charge led by
+Major Granger resulted in his death. He was killed just before he
+reached the enemy's position, causing a temporary repulse of the
+regiment, but the entire line came on and the enemy was put to flight in
+all directions.
+
+Stuart was mortally wounded while trying in person with a few mounted
+men of the First Virginia cavalry to stem the tide of defeat which set
+in when the First Michigan captured the battery. There is a controversy
+as to how he met his death. Colonel Alger claimed that Stuart was
+killed by a shot from one of the men on his dismounted line. Captain
+Dorsey, of the First Virginia, who was riding with Stuart at the time,
+quoted by Major McClellan, says that he was killed by a pistol shot
+fired by one of the men who had been unhorsed in the charge on the
+battery and who was running out on foot. In that case it must have been
+a First Michigan[25] man who, very likely, paid the penalty of his life
+for his temerity. It does not matter. One thing is certain. Stuart's
+death befell in front of Custer's Michigan brigade and it was a Michigan
+man who fired the fatal shot.
+
+Stuart was taken to Richmond, where he died, leaving behind him a record
+in which those who wore the blue and those who wore the gray take equal
+pride. He was a typical American cavalryman--one of the very foremost of
+American cavaliers and it is a privilege for one of those who stood in
+the line in front of which he fell in his last fight to pay a sincere
+tribute to his memory as a soldier and a man.
+
+It fell to that other illustrious Virginian--Fitzhugh Lee--to gather up
+the fragments and make such resistance as he could to the further march
+of the union cavalry.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII
+
+YELLOW TAVERN TO CHESTERFIELD STATION
+
+
+Daylight, May 12, found the entire corps concentrated south of the
+Meadow bridges, on the broad table-land between Richmond and the
+Chickahominy river. Sheridan still kept his forces well together. Having
+accomplished the main purpose of the expedition--the defeat of
+Stuart--it remained for him to assure the safety of his command, to
+husband its strength, to maneuver it so as to be at all times ready for
+battle, offensive or defensive as the exigency might demand.
+
+The next stage in the march of his ten thousand was Haxall's Landing, on
+the James river, where supplies would be awaiting him. By all the
+tokens, he was in a tight place, from which all his great dexterity and
+daring were needed to escape with credit and without loss. His plan was
+to pass between the fortifications and the river to Fair Oaks, moving
+thence to his destination. Its futility was demonstrated when Wilson's
+division attempted to move across the Mechanicsville road. It was found
+that all the ground was completely swept by the heavy guns of the
+defenses, while a strong force of infantry interposed. Reinforcements
+had been poured into Richmond, where the alarm was genuine, and it was
+clear that an attempt to enter the city or to obtain egress in the
+direction of Fair Oaks would bring on a bloody battle of doubtful issue.
+Either course would at least, invite discomfiture. To return by the
+Brook turnpike or Telegraph road, even if that course could have been
+considered as an alternative, was alike impracticable. The cavalry force
+which had been trailing the command all the way from the North Anna
+river still maintained a menacing attitude in that direction. The only
+gateway out, either to advance or retreat, was by the Meadow Bridge,
+over the Chickahominy, unless fords could be found. The river had to be
+crossed and, owing to the recent rains it was swollen.
+
+All the signs pointed to a sortie in force from the fortifications. The
+defenders emboldened by the hope, if not belief, that they had Sheridan
+in a trap; inspired by the feeling that they were fighting for their
+homes, their capital and their cause; and encouraged by the presence at
+the front of the president of the confederacy--Jefferson Davis--were
+very bold and defiant, and even the lower officers and enlisted men knew
+that it was a question of hours at most when they would march out in
+warlike array and offer battle. Sheridan decided to await and accept it.
+Indeed, he was forced to it whether he would or not, as the sequel
+proved.
+
+He sent for Custer and ordered him to take his brigade and open the way
+across the Chickahominy at the Meadow bridges. Where work was to be done
+that had to be done, and done quickly and surely, Custer was apt to be
+called upon. The vital point of the entire affair was to make absolutely
+sure of that crossing, and Sheridan turned confidently to the "boy
+general" as he had done before and often would do again.
+
+The Michigan men were just beginning to stretch their limbs for a little
+rest--having fought all day the day before and ridden all night--when
+called upon to mount. They had not had time to prepare their breakfast
+or cook their coffee, but they rode cheerfully forward for the
+performance of the duty assigned to them, appreciating highly the honor
+of being chosen.
+
+The road leading to Meadow bridge descended to low ground and across the
+river bottoms. The wagon road and bridge were at the same level as the
+bottoms. Some distance below was the railroad. The grade for the track
+must have been at least twenty feet above the level where it reached the
+bridge which spanned the river. So the approach by the railroad was
+along the embankment.
+
+When Custer reached the river he found that the bridge was gone. The
+enemy had destroyed it. The railroad bridge alone remained. A force of
+dismounted cavalry and artillery had taken a position on the other side
+which commanded the crossing. Their position was not only strong but its
+natural strength had been increased by breastworks. Two pieces of
+artillery were posted on a slight hill less than half a mile back. In
+front of the hill were the breastworks; in front of the breastworks
+woods. A line of skirmishers firing from the edge of the woods kept the
+pioneers from proceeding with the work.
+
+But Custer could not be balked. His orders were imperative. He was to
+make a crossing and secure a way for the entire corps to pass "at all
+hazards." He ordered the Fifth and Sixth Michigan to dismount, cross by
+the railroad bridge on foot and engage the enemy. The enemy's artillery
+swept the bridge, and as soon as it was seen that the Michigan men were
+climbing the railroad embankment to make the crossing they trained their
+pieces upon it. Yet the two regiments succeeded. The Fifth led, the
+Sixth followed. One man, or at most two or three, at a time, they
+tip-toed from tie to tie, watching the chance to make it in the
+intervals between the shells. Though these came perilously near to the
+bridge none of them hit it, at least while we were crossing. They went
+over and struck in the river or woods below. It looked perilous, and it
+was not devoid of danger, but I do not remember that a single man was
+killed or wounded while crossing. It may have been a case of poor
+ammunition or poor marksmanship or both. The worst of it was the nature
+of the ground was such that our artillerists could not bring their guns
+to bear.
+
+Once over, the two regiments deployed as skirmishers and advancing with
+their 8-shotted Spencers, drove the confederate skirmishers back through
+the woods and behind their breastworks, where we held them until a
+bridge was built, which must have been for two or three hours. The
+skirmishing in the woods was fierce at times, but the trees made good
+cover. It was here that Lieutenant Thomas A. Edie, troop A, Sixth, was
+killed by a bullet through the head. No attempt was made to assault the
+breastworks. The confederates behind them, however, were kept so fully
+occupied that they were unable to pay any attention to the bridge
+builders, who were left unmolested to complete their work. This was the
+work which the two Michigan regiments were sent over to do and they
+accomplished it successfully--something for which they never received
+full credit. At one stage of this fight my attention was attracted to
+the coolness of a trooper, troop A, Sixth, who was having sort of a duel
+with a confederate. The latter was lying down in his works, the former
+behind a tree. When either one exposed any portion of his anatomy the
+other would shoot. Some of the confederate's bullets grazed the tree.
+The Michigan man would show his cap or something and when the other
+fired, step out, take deliberate aim and return the shot, then jump
+behind his natural fortress and repeat the maneuver. Finally the
+confederate ceased firing and there was little doubt that a Spencer
+bullet had found its mark. Making my way to the tree I asked my man his
+name. His coolness and courage had much impressed me. "Charles Dean," he
+replied. "Report to me when the fight is over," I said. He did so, and
+from that day until the war ended he was my personal orderly. A better,
+braver soldier, or a more faithful friend no man ever knew than Charles
+Dean, troop A, Sixth Michigan cavalry.
+
+After the completion of the bridge the entire division crossed over. The
+Seventh Michigan, two regiments from Devin's brigade, two from
+Gibbs's--which with the Fifth and Sixth Michigan made seven in all were
+put on the line as reinforcements and an assault ordered. The entire
+line advanced and even then it was no child's play. The confederates
+fought well but were finally driven out of their works and routed.
+Pursuit with dismounted men was useless. As soon as the horses could be
+brought over the First Michigan and two of the Reserve brigade regiments
+were sent in pursuit mounted, but were too late, most of the
+confederates having made good their escape.
+
+While this was going on, Gregg had a hard fight with the strong force of
+infantry and artillery which came out full of confidence to crush
+Sheridan. By a brilliant ruse he took them by surprise and whipped them
+so thoroughly that they retreated within their inner fortifications,
+completely discomfited, and Sheridan remained on the ground most of the
+day with no one to molest or make him afraid. Gregg's fight was
+characteristic of that fine officer who never failed to fill the full
+measure of what was required of him. Indeed, it was one of the most
+creditable actions of the war and one for which he never received full
+credit. The feeling throughout the First division, at the time, I know,
+was that the superb courage and steadiness of Gregg and his division
+had extricated Sheridan from a grave peril. The same Gregg who, with the
+help of Custer's Michigan brigade, saved the Union right at Gettysburg,
+stood in the way and stopped a threatened disaster before Richmond.
+
+[Illustration: FITZHUGH LEE AND STAFF (IN CUBA)]
+
+After Gregg's repulse of the infantry, Custer's success in opening the
+way across Meadow bridge and Merritt's rout of Fitzhugh Lee's cavalry,
+the Second and Third divisions remained unmolested for the rest of the
+day on the ground of the morning's operations, the First division going
+to Gaines's Mills.
+
+General Sheridan tells a story of two newsboys who came out after the
+fight, with Richmond papers to sell. They did a thriving business and
+when their papers were disposed of desired to return to the city. But
+they were so bright and intelligent that he suspected their visit
+involved other purposes than the mere selling of papers, and held them
+until the command was across the river and then permitted them to go.
+There is an interesting coincidence between this story and the one told
+to the writer by St. George Tucker, of Richmond, and which appears on
+page 259 of this volume.
+
+Late in the afternoon the entire corps moved to Gaines's Mills and went
+into camp for the night.
+
+The march from Gaines's Mills to the James river was uneventful. When
+the head of the column, on the 14th, debouched on Malvern Hill, a
+gunboat in the river, mistaking us for confederate cavalry, commenced
+firing with one of their big guns, and as the huge projectiles cut the
+air overhead the men declared they were shooting "nail-kegs." The signal
+corps intervened and stopped this dangerous pastime.
+
+Three days were taken here for rest, recuperation, drawing and issuing
+forage and rations, shoeing horses, caring for and sending away the sick
+and wounded, and in every way putting the command on a field footing
+again. It was a brief period of placid contentment. Satisfaction beamed
+from every countenance. Complacency dwelt in every mind. The soldiers
+smoked their pipes, cooked their meals, read the papers, wrote letters
+to their homes, sang their songs and, around the evening camp fires,
+recalled incidents, humorous, thrilling or pathetic, of the march and
+battle-field. There was not a shadow on the scene.
+
+On the 17th the camp was broken and we marched by way of Charles City
+Courthouse, across the Chickahominy at Long bridge to Baltimore
+Crossroads, arriving there on the evening of the 18th when another halt
+was made. May 19, I was sent with the Sixth Michigan to destroy Bottom's
+bridge and the railroad trestle work near it. My recollection is that
+this was accomplished.
+
+The next morning General Custer was ordered with his brigade to Hanover
+Courthouse, the object being to destroy the railroad bridge across the
+South Anna river, a few miles beyond. This necessitating a ride of more
+than twenty miles, an early start was made. The Sixth was given the
+advance and it proved to be one of the most pleasant experiences of the
+campaign. The road led past Newcastle, Hanovertown and Price's; the day
+was clear, there was diversity of scenery and sufficient of incident to
+make it something worth remembering. No enemy was encountered until we
+reached the courthouse. A small body of cavalry was there, prepared to
+contest the approach of the advance guard. The officer in command of the
+advance did not charge, but stopped to skirmish and the column halted.
+Foght, Custer's bugler, rode up and offered to show me a way into the
+station from which the confederates could be taken in flank. Accepting
+his suggestion, I took the regiment and dashed through the fields to the
+left and captured the station, which brought us in on the left and rear
+of the force confronting the advance guard. Seeing this they took to
+flight, the advance guard pursuing them for some distance. A quantity of
+commissary stores were captured here, some of which were issued to the
+men, the balance destroyed. The railroad track was torn up and two
+trestles destroyed where the railroad crossed the creek near the
+station. Custer moved his brigade back to Hanovertown and encamped for
+the night. The next morning he returned to Hanover Courthouse and,
+sending the First and Fifth ahead, left the Sixth and Seventh to guard
+the rear. They advanced to near the South Anna river and found the
+bridge guarded by infantry, cavalry and artillery, which, en route from
+Richmond to Lee's army, had been stopped there for the exigency. Custer
+decided not to take the risk, as he learned that a force was also moving
+on his flank, and returned leisurely to Baltimore Crossroads.
+
+One incident of the first day seems to me worth narrating. The brigade
+bivouacked on a large plantation, where was a colonial house of generous
+proportions. It fronted on a spacious lawn, which sloped from the house
+to the highway and was fringed with handsome old spruce and Austrian
+pines. In front and rear the house had broad porches. A wide hall ran
+through the center of the house from one porch to the other and on
+either side of the hall were well furnished rooms of ample size. In
+rear, in an enclosure as broad as the house, was a well kept flower
+garden. It was a typical southern home of refinement and comfort. There
+were several ladies. The men were, of course, in the army. General
+Custer with several of his officers called upon the ladies to pay his
+respects and assure them of protection. He was received with quiet
+dignity and refined courtesy and for an hour chatted with them about the
+events then transpiring. They knew all the confederate cavalry leaders
+and he was greatly interested in what they had to say about them. Before
+his departure he left with one of the ladies a piquant and chivalric
+message for his "friend Rosser," which she promised to deliver
+faithfully. Custer and Rosser, in war and in peace, were animated by
+the same knightly spirit. Their friendship antedated and outlived the
+war. The message was received and provoked one of a similar tenor in
+reply. He took especial care that no harm was done to the place and
+marched away leaving it as good as he found it.
+
+Upon our return it was found that the Second and Reserve brigades by the
+most extraordinary activity and skill had succeeded in restoring the
+bridge across the Pamunkey at White House on which the entire corps
+crossed over May 22. May 24, Sheridan reported to General Meade at
+Chesterfield station, on the Richmond and Fredericksburg railroad, north
+of the North Anna river, opposite Hanover Station. The two days' march
+from Aylett's was hot and dusty, and marked by nothing worth recalling,
+unless it be that the road after the cavalry had passed over it was
+dotted at regular intervals with the bodies of dead horses, the order
+having been that when horses gave out and had to be abandoned they must
+be shot.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX
+
+HANOVERTOWN AND HAW'S SHOP
+
+
+June 26 the First and Second divisions, followed by Russell's division
+of the Sixth corps started down the north bank of the Pamunkey river to
+secure the crossings, Grant having determined on another movement by the
+left flank, and to throw his entire army across into the territory
+between the Pamunkey and Chickahominy. Feints were made that day at the
+fords near Hanover Courthouse, but after dark both Torbert and Gregg,
+leaving a small force on duty at each of these fords respectively,
+quietly withdrew and made a night march to Dabney's Ferry opposite
+Hanovertown, the First division leading. At daylight Custer in advance
+reached the Ferry and the First Michigan under Colonel Stagg gallantly
+forced the passage, driving away about one hundred cavalrymen who were
+guarding it and making a number of them prisoners. The entire division
+then crossed and moved forward through the town.
+
+General Custer directed me to take the road from Hanovertown and push on
+in advance toward Hanover Courthouse. We had gone but a mile or so when,
+in the midst of a dense wood, a force which proved to be dismounted
+cavalry was encountered, strongly posted behind temporary earthworks
+hastily thrown up. The regiment was dismounted on the right of the road,
+the First Michigan, following closely, went in on the left and the two
+regiments made a vigorous attack, but met with a stubborn resistance and
+did not succeed in carrying the works at once. A band was playing in
+rear, indicating the presence of a brigade, at least.
+
+Noticing that a portion of the enemy's fire came from the right, I sent
+the sergeant major to the rear with word that the line ought to be
+prolonged in that direction. The non commissioned officer returned and
+reported that the message had been delivered to the brigade commander,
+but that it was overheard by the major general commanding the division,
+who exclaimed with a good deal of impatience: "Who in ---- is this who
+is talking about being flanked?" I was mortified at this and resolved
+never again to admit to a superior officer that the idea of being
+flanked had any terrors. But General Torbert, notwithstanding, did
+reinforce the line with a part of General Devin's brigade in exact
+accordance with my suggestion.
+
+Custer, however, did not wait for this, but, taking the other two
+regiments of his brigade (the Fifth and Seventh Michigan) made a detour
+to the left by way of Haw's Shop, and came in on the flank and rear of
+the force which the First and Sixth, with Devin's help were trying to
+dislodge from its strong position, and which held on tenaciously so
+long as it was subjected to a front attack only. But, as soon as Custer
+made his appearance on the flank, the enemy, Gordon's brigade of North
+Carolinians, abandoned the earthworks and fled, the First and Sixth with
+Devin's regiments promptly joining in the pursuit.
+
+Custer's approach was heralded by an amusing incident. The band that had
+been challenging us with its lips of brass stopped short in the midst of
+one of its most defiant strains, and the last note of the "Bonnie Blue
+Flag" had scarcely died on the air, when far to the left and front were
+heard the cheery strains of "Yankee Doodle."[26] No other signal was
+needed to tell of the whereabouts of our Michigan comrades, and it was
+then that the whole line moved forward, only to see as it emerged into
+the open, the Tar-heels of the South making swift time towards Crump's
+Creek, closely followed by Custer and his Michiganders. The latter had
+accomplished without loss by the flanking process what he had tried in
+vain to do by the more direct method.
+
+The charge of the Fifth and Seventh Michigan, commanded by Captain
+Magoffin and Major Walker respectively, and led by General Custer in
+person, was most brilliant and successful, the Seventh continuing the
+pursuit for about three miles. First Sergeant Mortimer Rappelye of troop
+C, Sixth, and one of his men were killed at the first fire. Rappelye
+was in command of the advance guard and had been slated for a commission
+which he would have received had he lived.
+
+That night the cavalry encamped on Crump's Creek. The next day the army
+was all over and Grant had taken up a new line extending from Crump's
+Creek to the Totopotomoy. Still, he was uncertain of what Lee was doing
+and it became necessary to find out. This led to what was one of the
+most sanguinary and courageously contested cavalry engagements of the
+entire war--the battle of Haw's Shop--in which Gregg and Custer with the
+Second division and the Michigan brigade, unassisted, defeated most
+signally, two divisions under the command of Wade Hampton in his own
+person. Indeed it is not certain that it was not even a more notable
+victory than that over Stuart on the right flank at Gettysburg. It was
+won at a greater sacrifice of life than either Brandy Station or Yellow
+Tavern.
+
+After the death of Stuart, though so short a time had elapsed, the
+confederate cavalry had been reorganized into three divisions, commanded
+by Wade Hampton, Fitzhugh Lee, and W.H.F. Lee, the first named being the
+ranking officer. His division had been largely reinforced, notably by a
+brigade of South Carolinians under M.C. Butler who, after the war, was
+the colleague of Hampton in the United States senate. This brigade
+consisted of seven large regiments, numbering in all about four
+thousand men. It was a brigade that honored the state which produced
+Sumter, Marion, the Rutledges and the Hamptons.
+
+All this cavalry had joined the army of Northern Virginia and was in
+position to cover the movements which Lee was making to confront the
+army of the Potomac. Sheridan's corps, now that it had returned to the
+army, was once more somewhat dispersed. Wilson was still north of the
+Pamunkey, covering the transfer of the several infantry corps and
+guarding the fords. The First division, as we have seen, led the
+crossing on the 27th and was covering the front and right of the
+infantry along Crump's Creek. Gregg, who had followed Torbert, was at
+Hanovertown.
+
+On the morning of May 28, Gregg was sent out by Sheridan to discover the
+movements of Lee, who was skilfully masking his designs behind his
+cavalry. Gregg had advanced but a short distance beyond Haw's Shop when,
+in a dense wood, protected by swamps, behind breastworks of logs and
+rails, and with batteries advantageously posted, he found the enemy's
+cavalry dismounted and disposed in order of battle. He promptly
+attacked, notwithstanding the disparity in numbers and in position,
+Davies going into action first, followed by Irvin Gregg, and the entire
+division was quickly engaged. Gregg was resolute, Hampton determined,
+and for hours the battle was waged with the most unyielding bravery on
+both sides. The list of killed and wounded was unexampled in any
+other cavalry contest of the Civil war, aggregating in the Second
+division alone two hundred and fifty-six officers and men. Davies's
+brigade lost twenty-three officers. The First New Jersey cavalry had two
+officers killed and nine wounded. The enemy's losses were even greater.
+
+[Illustration: M.C. BUTLER]
+
+It was an unequal contest--one division against two, two brigades
+against four--with the odds in favor of the confederates. Hampton who,
+in the beginning, maintained a posture of defense, began to assume a
+more aggressive attitude and showed a disposition to take the offensive.
+In the afternoon, towards four o'clock, he brought up Butler's brigade
+to reinforce the center of his line. These troops were armed with long
+range rifles and many of them had not been under fire before. This was
+their first fight. They came on the field with the firm purpose to win
+or die, and preferred death to defeat or surrender, as the sequel
+proved.
+
+Then, and not till then, it began to look as though the hitherto
+invincible Gregg might have the worst of it. There was danger that the
+center of his line would be compelled to yield. It was in front of this
+new and valorous foe that the First New Jersey suffered its fearful
+losses. The attack was such that only the bravest men could have
+withstood it.
+
+At this critical juncture, Sheridan ordered Custer to the front to
+reinforce Gregg. It was time. The Michigan men were having a rest,
+thinking it was their turn for "a day off." But, as in the "Wilderness"
+and at Meadow Bridge, they were instantly in the saddle and en route.
+Marching by fours along a country road, hearing the sounds, but not yet
+within sight of the conflict, lines of federal infantry were seen
+marshaled for action, and a knot of officers of high rank gazing toward
+the front. Passing to the right of these, the column turned to the right
+into the road leading past Haw's Shop, and through the woods where the
+two lines were fiercely contending, and which road bisected the
+battle-field. An impressive scene came into view. Beyond the wood, less
+than a mile away, which extended on both sides of the road, one of
+Hampton's batteries was firing shell with the utmost rapidity. These
+shells were exploding both in the woods and in a broad plain behind them
+and to the right of the column as it advanced. Hundreds of non
+combatants were fleeing to the rear across this open space. The woods,
+like a screen, hid the battery from view. Only the screaming and
+exploding shells could be seen. When the head of the Michigan column
+came into their line of vision, the confederate cannoneers trained one
+of their guns on the road and the shells began to explode in our faces.
+A right oblique movement took the column out of range.
+
+Gregg's men had been gradually forced back to the very edge of the
+woods, and were hanging on to this last chance for cover with bull dog
+tenacity. The enemy were pressing them hard and, apparently conscious
+that reinforcements for them were coming, seemed to redouble their fire
+both of artillery and small arms. It was a fearful and awe inspiring
+spectacle.
+
+Custer lost no time. Massing the brigade close behind Gregg's line of
+battle he dismounted it to fight on foot. Every fourth man remained with
+the horses which were sent back out of danger. The line formed in two
+ranks like infantry. The Sixth was to the right, its left resting on the
+road; the Seventh to the left, its right on the road. The First formed
+on the right of the Sixth, the Fifth on the left of the Seventh. The
+time for action had come. It was necessary to do one thing or the other.
+No troops in the world could have been held there long without going
+forward or back.
+
+Custer, accompanied by a single aide, rode along the line from left to
+right, encouraging the men by his example and his words. Passing the
+road he dashed out in front of the Sixth and taking his hat in his hand,
+waved it around his head and called for three cheers. The cheers were
+given and then the line rushed forward. Custer quickly changed to the
+flank but, though thus rashly exposing himself, with his usual luck, he
+escaped without a scratch. Christiancy, his aide, had his horse shot
+under him and received two wounds, one a severe one through the thigh.
+
+Gregg's men permitted the Michigan men to pass. In a moment the
+Wolverines and the Palmetto men were face to face and the lines very
+close. Michigan had Spencers. South Carolina, Enfields. Spencers were
+repeaters, Enfields were not. The din of the battle was deafening. It
+was heard distinctly back where the infantry was formed and where Grant,
+Meade, and Sheridan anxiously were awaiting the event. The Spencers were
+used with deadly effect. The South Carolinians, the most stubborn foe
+Michigan ever had met in battle, refused to yield and filled the air
+with lead from the muzzles of their long range guns as fast as they
+could load and fire. The sound of their bullets sweeping the undergrowth
+was like that of hot flames crackling through dry timber. The trees were
+riddled. Men began to fall. Miles Hutchinson, son of my father's
+foreman, who had left home to go to the war with me, fell dead at my
+side. "Jimmie" Brown, the handsome and brave sergeant, dropped his piece
+and falling, died instantly. Corporal Seth Carey met his fate like a
+soldier, his face to the foe. A member of troop H, shot through the
+breast, staggered toward me and exclaiming, "Oh, major," fell literally
+into my arms, leaving the stains of his blood upon my breast.
+
+This strenuous work did not last long. It may have been ten minutes from
+start to finish--from the time we received the South Carolinians' fire
+till the worst of it was over and they began to give way. But, in that
+brief ten minutes eighteen brave men in the ranks of the Sixth Michigan
+had been either killed or mortally wounded; and as many more were
+wounded but not fatally. The enemy suffered even more severely. The
+brigade lost forty-one killed--eighteen in the Sixth; thirteen in the
+Fifth; five in the First and five in the Seventh. The losses of the
+Fifth in officers and men wounded but not fatally were larger than those
+in the Sixth, the total of killed and wounded aggregating something like
+fifty in the regiment. The First, though it did not meet with so sturdy
+a resistance in its immediate front, was able to work around the flank
+of the enemy, thus materially aiding in breaking their spirit and
+putting them to rout.
+
+Some of the South Carolina men exhibited a foolhardy courage never seen
+anywhere else so far as my knowledge extends.
+
+"Surrender," said Sergeant Avery to one of them who had just discharged
+his piece and was holding it still smoking in his hands.
+
+"I have no orders to surrender, ---- you," returned the undaunted
+confederate.
+
+He surrendered, not his person, but his life. Such a fate befell more
+than one of those intrepid heroes. It was a pity but it was war and "war
+is hell." The enemy's line, at that time, had been driven beyond the
+woods into a clearing where was a house. While crossing a shallow ravine
+before reaching the house it was noticed that shots were coming from the
+rear. An officer with a troop was ordered back to investigate. It was
+found that at the first onset the regiment had obliqued slightly to the
+right, thus leaving an interval between the left flank and the road in
+consequence of which about fifteen confederates had been passed
+unnoticed. Some of them had the temerity to begin giving us a fire in
+the rear. They were all made prisoners.
+
+The force in front was driven from the field, leaving their dead and
+wounded. Eighty-three dead confederates were counted by those whose duty
+it was to bury the dead and care for the wounded in the field and woods
+through which the Michigan men charged. Those who were killed in front
+of the Sixth Michigan were South Carolinians from Charleston and
+evidently of the best blood in that historic city and commonwealth. They
+were well dressed and their apparel, from outer garments to the white
+stockings on their feet, was clean and of fine texture. In their pockets
+they had plenty of silver money.
+
+In this engagement, as well as in that at Hanovertown the day before,
+the Fifth Michigan was commanded by Captain Magoffin, Colonel Alger
+having remained at White House for a few days on account of illness.
+Colonel Stagg and Major Alexander Walker led the First and Seventh,
+respectively.
+
+General Sheridan narrates that when he called upon Mr. Lincoln in
+Washington the president made a facetious reference to General Hooker's
+alleged fling at the cavalry, when he asked: "Who ever saw a dead
+cavalryman?" It is perhaps doubtful whether Hooker uttered so pointless
+a saying, devoid alike of sense and of wit. If such a question was ever
+seriously propounded by him or by any one else, its sufficient answer
+could have been found upon the battle field of Haw's Shop. And not there
+alone. The First Michigan cavalry had sixteen killed including its
+colonel at the second Bull Run and twelve at Gettysburg. The Fifth
+Michigan lost fifteen killed at Gettysburg; the Sixth Michigan
+twenty-four at Falling Waters and the Seventh Michigan twenty-two at
+Gettysburg--all of these before General Sheridan had that interview with
+Mr. Lincoln in the White House. This record was enough of itself, to
+render the cavalry immune to ironical disparagement. If there were any
+honest doubts as to the efficiency and fighting qualities of the Potomac
+cavalry, they were dissipated by the campaign of 1864. After Todd's
+Tavern, Yellow Tavern, Haw's Shop, Cold Harbor and Trevilian Station no
+slurring remarks aimed at the cavalry were heard. Its prestige was
+acknowledged in and out of the army by all those who had knowledge of
+its achievements and were willing to give credit where credit was
+deserved.
+
+An all night march followed the battle, after the dead had been buried
+and the wounded cared for. The morning of May 29 found the two divisions
+in the neighborhood of Old Church and thence in the afternoon of May 30
+Custer and Merritt marched out toward Cold Harbor, the Reserve brigade
+in advance, to reinforce Devin, who was having a hot fight at Matadequin
+Creek with Butler's South Carolinans, posted on the opposite side in a
+strong position. The entire division became engaged, the fighting being
+mostly dismounted and the opposing force was driven in great confusion
+from the field. The Sixth Michigan was held in reserve mounted and
+expected to be ordered in for a mounted charge but for some unexplained
+reason the order did not come. The First, Fifth and Seventh were in the
+thickest of it and rendered excellent service. The pursuit was kept up
+for several miles and the enemy retreated to Cold Harbor, leaving his
+dead and wounded on the field, as at Haw's Shop. Butler's men behaved
+with great gallantry, but were ready to surrender when the logic of the
+situation demanded it. They made no such resistance as in the former
+action.
+
+May 31, in the afternoon, the First division advanced on Cold Harbor,
+Merritt in advance, on the road leading from Old Church. Custer followed
+Merritt. Devin was sent by another road to the left with the intention
+of having him attack in flank the force which the other two brigades
+were engaging in front. The Sixth Michigan moved by a country road to
+make connection between the First and Second brigades. Gregg's division
+followed Torbert as a reserve and support but did not become engaged.
+
+Cold Harbor was a very important strategic point, as can be seen by a
+glance at the map, roads radiating from it in all directions. It was
+strongly held by Hampton's and Fitzhugh Lee's cavalry, supported by a
+brigade of infantry. They had thrown up breastworks of rails and logs,
+and made preparations for a stout resistance.
+
+I reached the intersection of the country road with the left hand road
+before Devin appeared. My orders being to connect with him, I awaited
+his arrival, sending a few men out to keep watch in both directions.
+When Devin's advance came up they saw these men and appeared to be
+suspicious of them, and did not advance very promptly. As soon as I
+could I gave them to understand who we were and what we were there for.
+Devin then moved along the main road and the Sixth deployed through the
+woods until touch with its own brigade was obtained.
+
+In the meantime, a hard fight was in progress. Torbert, not hearing from
+Devin, changed his plans and attacked the enemy's left flank with the
+Reserve brigade and the First and Fifth Michigan. This was most
+skilfully and successfully done. The flanking movement was led by the
+First and Second United States, and the Fifth Michigan, still under
+Captain Magoffin. The final blow was struck by Major Melvin Brewer with
+one battalion of the First Michigan, whose charge mounted at the
+critical moment decided the fate of the field. The enemy who had been
+putting up a very hard fight did not await this charge but threw down
+their arms and fled, the pursuit being followed up to a point a mile and
+a half beyond the town. The Sixth took little part except to fill the
+gap between Custer and Devin. The latter found the confederate right
+flank too strong to circumvent, and added one more to the long list of
+lost opportunities.
+
+Thus, Cold Harbor, the key to the maneuvers of the two armies, came into
+possession of the Union cavalry, but there was no infantry support
+within ten miles, the result having been unexpected by Meade, and
+Sheridan decided that it would not be safe for his command to try to
+hold it, unsupported. He, however, notified the general of the army what
+he had done and withdrew his cavalry after dark to the position of the
+night before. Grant, realizing the importance of the capture, directed
+Sheridan to return and hold Cold Harbor at all hazards, until the
+infantry could get up. The march was retraced and, reaching the position
+before daylight, the breastworks which the enemy had thrown up were
+brought into service, strengthened as much as possible and the division
+dismounted placed in line behind them. Ammunition boxes were distributed
+on the ground by the side of the men so they could load and fire with
+great rapidity. This was a strong line in single rank deployed thick
+along the barricade of rails. Behind the line only a few yards away were
+twelve pieces of artillery equally supplied with ammunition. The brigade
+was thus in readiness to make a desperate resistance to any attack that
+might be made. The only mounted man on the line was General Custer, who
+rode back and forth giving his orders. The Sixth was lying down behind
+the rails and directly in front of the artillery, the pieces being so
+disposed as to fire over our heads. I do not remember any other
+engagement in which so many pieces of artillery were posted directly on
+a skirmish line with no line of battle behind it and no reserves. It was
+an expedient born of a desperate emergency.
+
+In front of the line was open ground. Two hundred yards to the front
+were woods. In the woods the confederate infantry was in bivouac.
+Kershaw's division was in front of the Michigan brigade. Before the
+first streaks of dawn began to appear in the east, their bugles sounded
+the reveille, and there was immediate commotion in the confederate
+camps. So close to us were they that the commands of the officers could
+be heard distinctly. Soon after daybreak an attack was made on the right
+of the line. As soon as the enemy emerged from the woods General Custer
+ordered all the twelve pieces of artillery to fire with shell and
+canister which they did most effectively. So furious was the fire that
+the confederate infantry did not dare to come out of the woods in front
+of Custer's left where the Sixth was, the artillery and the fire from
+the Spencers from behind the rails keeping them back. An attempt was
+made to charge the part of the line where the First Michigan was posted
+but each time it was repulsed. Here Captain Brevoort, one of the
+bravest and best officers in the brigade, was killed. Captain William M.
+Heazlett, another fine officer, was wounded. They both belonged to the
+First Michigan.
+
+During the progress of the engagement, when the first attempt of
+Kershaw's infantry to come out of the woods had been repulsed, and there
+was a temporary suspension of the firing, General Custer riding along
+the line, in rear of the artillery, noticed that several of us who were
+lying down behind the barricade, were directly in front of one of the
+brass pieces. Though these pieces were firing over our heads, they were
+very nearly, if not quite, on the same level as the barricades. He, with
+characteristic thoughtfulness, called my attention to the danger of
+remaining where we were and I moved away from in front of the gun to a
+position in front of the interval between two of them, directing the
+others to do likewise. The three men who were with me were Lieutenant
+William Creevy, Corporal John Yax, and private Thomas W. Hill of troop
+C. Hill moved to the right when I moved to the left, but Creevy and Yax
+were slow about it. The very next time the gun was fired, there was a
+premature explosion, which killed Yax and wounded Creevy. Hill was a boy
+only seventeen years of age, one of the recruits of 1863-64. He survived
+the war and is now cashier of the Cleveland national bank, of Cleveland,
+Ohio, and one of the most influential and respected business men of that
+city. Another one of those young recruits of 1863-64 was A.V. Cole,
+corporal in the same troop as Hill. He was badly wounded in the
+action at Haw's Shop, May 28. For many years he was adjutant general of
+the state of Nebraska.
+
+[Illustration: THOMAS W. HILL]
+
+This line was successfully held, a most meritorious performance, by the
+cavalry until nearly noon, when the Sixth corps came on the ground and
+relieved it.
+
+Never were reinforcements more cordially welcomed. Never did the uniform
+and arms of the infantry look better than when the advance of the Sixth
+corps made its appearance at Old Cold Harbor. In solid array and with
+quick step they marched out of the woods in rear of the line, and took
+our places. The tension was relaxed and for the first time since
+midnight the cavalryman drew a long breath.
+
+This was the beginning of the intimate association of the First cavalry
+division with the Sixth corps. So close a bond did it become that its
+hold was not released until the war closed. It was a bond of mutual
+help, mutual confidence and respect. The Greek cross and the cross
+sabers were found together on all the battle fields of the Shenandoah
+valley and we shall see how at Cedar Creek they unitedly made a mark for
+American valor and American discipline unexcelled in all the annals of
+war. There, side by side, Wright and Ricketts, Getty and Wheaton stood
+with Merritt and Custer in the face of an enemy flushed with success,
+and refused to be beaten until Sheridan came on the field to lead them
+to victory.
+
+The division then moved back near Old Church and went into camp. June 2
+went into camp at Bottom's bridge, where we remained skirmishing with
+cavalry across the river. June 6 found the First and Second divisions in
+camp at Newcastle Ferry on the Pamunkey river, in readiness for what is
+known in the records and in history as the Trevilian raid, conducted by
+General Sheridan in person.
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX
+
+THE TREVILIAN RAID
+
+
+The contents of this chapter constitute the latest contribution of the
+author to the literature of the events recorded in this book. Much of
+that which has gone before and all of what follows was written many
+years ago. But in this final draft, every line has been revised. Time
+and the ripeness of years have tempered and mellowed prejudice; the
+hasty and sometimes intemperate generalizations of comparative youth
+have been corrected by maturer judgment; something of ill-advised
+comment and crudity has been eliminated. Many of his conclusions and
+even the accuracy of some of his statements of fact, he realizes fully,
+may not remain unchallenged; yet it has been his honest endeavor and
+purpose to give, so far as in him lies, a truthful and impartial recital
+of those salient memories that remain to him of the stirring experiences
+of the youthful days when, as a boy he "followed the fortunes of the boy
+general" in the campaigns of 1863-64, in the great civil war.
+
+The outlines of the sketches herein made have been drawn from the
+official "records of the rebellion" which have been carefully consulted;
+the details for the most part have been taken from the storehouse of a
+somewhat retentive memory; something of color and atmosphere necessarily
+has been left to the imagination. It is a picture that he would present,
+rather than a dry recital of dates and places, or a mere table of
+statistics. The importance of these things need not be lessened by
+seeking to give them an attractive form.
+
+The writer must confess, also to an ambition to contribute something,
+albeit but a little, toward giving to the Michigan cavalry brigade the
+place in history which it richly earned; so that it may receive in its
+due proportions the credit which it deserves for the patriotic and
+valiant services rendered on so many battle fields. And especially does
+it seem to be to him a duty to do this for the regiment in which it was
+his privilege and good luck to serve.
+
+This ambition, however, was nearly stifled, soon after its birth, by an
+experience very galling to the pride of a well meaning, if sensitive and
+fallible historian.
+
+It was something like twenty years ago that a paper on the battle of
+Cedar Creek, prepared with conscientious care and scrupulous fidelity to
+the facts as the writer understood them, was mailed to General Wesley
+Merritt, with the request, couched in modest and courteous phrase, that
+he point out after having read it any inaccuracies of statement that he
+might make a note of, as the article was intended for publication.
+
+The distinguished cavalry officer replied, in a style that was bland,
+that he had "long since ceased to read fiction;" that he no longer read
+"even the Century war articles;" that an officer one month would give
+his version of things which another officer in a subsequent number of
+the same magazine would stoutly contradict; and that he was heartily
+tired of the whole business.
+
+General Merritt was, however, good enough to give in detail his reasons
+for dissenting from the writer's account of a certain episode of the
+battle, and his letter lent emphasis to the discussion in one of the
+early chapters of this volume concerning men occupying different points
+of view in a battle. This particular matter will be more fully treated
+in its proper place. One must not be too sure of what he sees with his
+own eyes and hears with his own ears, unless he is backed by a cloud of
+witnesses.
+
+Moreover this was notice plain as holy writ, that no mere amateur in the
+art of war may presume, without the fear of being discredited, to have
+known and observed that which did not at the time come within the scope
+of those who had a recognized status as professional soldiers and find
+its way into their official reports. Indeed, a very high authority as
+good as told the writer in the war records office in Washington that no
+man's memory is as good as the published record, or entitled to any
+weight at all when not in entire harmony therewith.
+
+It is evident that this rule, though perhaps a proper and necessary
+one, to protect the literature of the war against imposition and fraud,
+may very easily bar out much that is valuable and well worth writing, if
+not indispensable to a fair and complete record, provided it can in some
+way be accredited and invested with the stamp of truth.
+
+It was quite possible for brigade and even regimental commanders, not to
+draw the line finer still, to have experiences on the battle field of
+which their immediate superiors were not cognizant; nor is it necessary
+to beg the question by arguing that all commanding officers were allowed
+to exercise a discretion of their own within certain limits.
+
+Official reports were oftentimes but hastily and imperfectly sketched
+amidst the hurry and bustle of breaking camp; or on the eve of battle,
+when the mind might be occupied with other things of immediate and
+pressing importance. Sometimes they were prepared long afterwards, when
+it was as difficult to recall the exact sequence and order of events as
+it would be after the lapse of years. Some of the "youngsters" of those
+days failed to realize the value their reports would have in after years
+as the basis for making history. Others were so unfortunate as to have
+them "lost in transit" so that, although they were duly and truly
+prepared and forwarded through the official channels, they never found
+their way into the printed record.
+
+Attention already has been called to the absence of reports of the
+commanders of the Michigan cavalry brigade regiments for the Gettysburg
+campaign. General George B. Davis, U.S. army, when in charge of the war
+records office in Washington, told the writer that he had noticed this
+want and wondered at it. He could not account for it. A like misfortune
+befell the same regiments when they participated in the Kilpatrick raid.
+Only a part of their reports covering the campaign of 1864, including
+the Trevilian raid, were published. In this respect the Sixth Michigan
+suffered more than either of the others. Not a single report of the
+operations of that regiment for that period, appears in the record,
+though they were certainly made as required. General Custer's reports
+cover that regiment, of course, as they do the others in the brigade,
+but it is unfortunate that these are not supplemented by those of the
+regimental commander. Until the volumes successively appeared, he was
+not aware of this defect; nor did he ever receive from any source an
+intimation of it, or have opportunity to supply the deficiency. Hence,
+it appeals to him as a duty to remedy, so far as it can be done at this
+late day, the omissions in the record as published of this gallant
+regiment.
+
+From the beginning to the end of the campaign of 1864, in Virginia--from
+the Wilderness, May 4, to Cedar Creek, October 19--except for a single
+month when he was in command of the brigade, the writer was present with
+and commanded the Sixth Michigan cavalry. Not a single day was he
+absent from duty, nor did he miss a battle or skirmish in which the
+regiment was engaged. Reports were made, but as we have shown they did
+not find their way into the war department. No copies were retained, so
+there is a hiatus in the record. There are numerous cases of a similar
+kind. Some officers, there is reason to believe, were smart enough to
+seek and were given the opportunity to restore the missing links.
+
+The Trevilian raid resulted from the seeming necessity of drawing the
+confederate cavalry away from the front of the army of the Potomac while
+the movement of the latter from the Chickahominy to the James was in
+progress. Sheridan was ordered to take two divisions and proceed to
+Charlottesville, on the Virginia Central railroad. Incidentally he was
+to unite there with the force operating under General Hunter in the
+direction of Lynchburg. He decided to take the First and Second
+divisions (Gregg and Torbert). Wilson with the Third division was to
+remain with the army, taking his orders directly from General Meade.
+
+As we have seen, the expeditionary force, before making the start, was
+at Newcastle Ferry, on the south bank of the Pamunkey river. Three days'
+rations to last five days were ordered to be taken in haversacks; also
+two days' forage strapped to the pommels of the saddles; one hundred
+rounds of ammunition--forty on the person, sixty in wagons; one medical
+wagon and eight ambulances; Heaton's and Pennington's batteries; and a
+pontoon train of eight boats. The brigade commanders were: Custer,
+Merritt, Devin, Davies and Irvin Gregg. In the Michigan brigade there
+had been some changes since Cold Harbor. Colonel Alger had returned and
+resumed command of his regiment. Major Melvin Brewer, of the First
+Michigan, had been promoted to lieutenant colonel and assigned to
+command of the Seventh Michigan, his appointment dating June 6.
+
+There is a certain something about the events of that war that makes
+them stand out in bold relief, like architectural images on the facade
+of an edifice. They throw all other recollections of a lifetime into the
+shade. As I sit at my desk writing, with memory at elbow as a prompter,
+it is difficult to believe that today (May 7, 1908) it lacks but one
+short month of being forty-four years since those preparations were
+making on the banks of the Pamunkey river for a cavalry expedition in
+some respects more strenuous, more difficult than any which had preceded
+it. Yet those incidents are burned into the memory, and it seems that,
+after all, it may have been but yesterday, so deep and lasting were the
+impressions then produced. As the well focused optical image is
+transferred to a sensitized surface, reproducing the picture, so were
+those scenes fixed in the mind with photographic certainty, to be
+retained as long as memory lasts, somewhat faded by time, it may be, but
+complete in outline if not in details.
+
+The campaign of the previous month had been a hard one for the cavalry.
+Aside from the fact that he was leaving one third of his force behind,
+Sheridan's corps had been decimated. A large number of his troopers had
+been killed and wounded, or rendered hors de combat in other ways. The
+horses had suffered terribly and many of them had been shot. So only
+about half the number of mounted men fit for duty that followed the
+colors of the cavalry corps out of the Wilderness, May 8, marched across
+the Pamunkey on the pontoon bridge, June 6. Readers who have followed
+this narrative through the preceding chapters will readily understand
+this.
+
+Sheridan's plan[27] was to move along the north bank of the North Anna
+to a point opposite Trevilian Station, on the Virginia Central railroad;
+then cross the North Anna by one of the bridges or fords, and by a rapid
+movement capture the station, destroy the railroad from Louisa
+Courthouse to Gordonsville, and proceed thence to Charlottesville, where
+the expected junction with Hunter was to be made. If this plan should
+succeed, the two forces thus united were to advance on Lynchburg and do
+what, as a matter of fact, Sheridan did not accomplish until the spring
+of 1865. Instead of marching to Charlottesville, Hunter went the other
+way, and that feature of the expedition was a failure. Breckinridge's
+corps of infantry was sent to Gordonsville, the confederate cavalry
+succeeded in interposing between that place and Trevilian Station and
+Sheridan advanced no farther than the latter point.
+
+[Illustration: WADE HAMPTON]
+
+Sheridan's march began on the morning of June 7. Passing between the
+Pamunkey and the Mattapony rivers, he reached Polecat station on the
+Richmond and Potomac (Fredericksburg) railroad the evening of June 8,
+and encamped there for the night. The next day the march was resumed,
+passing through Chilesburg to the North Anna, and along the bank of that
+river to Young's Mills, where the entire command bivouacked. June 10, he
+journeyed to Twyman's store and crossed the North Anna at Carpenter's
+Ford, near Miner's bridge, between Brock's bridge and New bridge,
+encamping for the night on the road leading past Clayton's store to
+Trevilian Station.
+
+In the meantime, as soon as Sheridan's movement was discovered two
+divisions of confederate cavalry (Hampton's and Fitzhugh Lee's) under
+Hampton--the latter's division commanded by Butler--started by the
+direct road between the Annas for Gordonsville, for the purpose of
+intercepting Sheridan. Breckinridge timed his movements to make his line
+of march parallel with that of Sheridan. Hampton, having the shorter
+distance to cover, although he started two days later than his
+adversary, was able to anticipate the latter in arriving, and was
+between Gordonsville and Trevilian Station the night that Sheridan
+crossed the North Anna. Fitzhugh Lee at the same time was near Louisa
+Courthouse, the two confederate commanders thus being separated by a
+distance of some six or seven miles on the evening of June 10. The
+federal cavalry was all together and in position favorable for
+preventing a union of the confederate forces by a sudden movement in the
+morning. Both commanders were looking for a battle on the following day
+and had made their plans accordingly.
+
+Hampton had with him the three brigades of Rosser, Butler and Young;
+while the other division consisted of the brigades of Lomax and Wickham.
+It will thus be seen that, while the federal commander had a much
+smaller force than that which followed him on the raid of the previous
+month, his opponent was able to meet him with nearly twice the relative
+strength with which Stuart confronted him at Yellow Tavern. In other
+words, while Stuart fought him with the three brigades of Lomax, Wickham
+and Gordon (Hampton not being present) the latter at Trevilian Station
+had five brigades, including the big South Carolina brigade which fought
+so gallantly at Haw's Shop. More than that, Breckinridge's infantry was
+behind the cavalry, ready to reinforce it, if needed.
+
+Sheridan's camp was in the woods north of Clayton's store, and extending
+eastward as far as Buck Chiles's farm, Gregg on his left, Torbert on the
+right. His plan was to advance on Trevilian Station, at an early hour on
+the morning of June 11, by the direct road from Clayton's store. It was
+given to Gregg to look out for Fitzhugh Lee, who was expected to come
+into the action from the direction of Louisa Courthouse.
+
+Hampton planned to advance from Trevilian Station with his own division
+and attack Sheridan at Clayton's store. Lee was to take the road from
+Louisa Courthouse to the same point and form on Hampton's right. A
+glance at the map will show that the two roads intersect. Still another
+country road runs from Louisa Courthouse to Trevilian Station.
+
+Sheridan formed his line of battle with Merritt on the right, Devin to
+Merritt's left, Custer and Gregg, en echelon, still farther to the left.
+Custer covered the road toward Louisa Courthouse. The Seventh Michigan
+picketed that road during the night. At a very early hour the pickets of
+that regiment were attacked by Lee's advance. The First Michigan was
+sent to reinforce the Seventh. One brigade of Gregg's division was also
+sent out to meet Lee. The other one was formed on Devin's left. Sheridan
+then advanced and attacked Hampton instead of awaiting his attack.
+
+Hampton moved from Trevilian Station with the two brigades of Butler and
+Young, Butler on the left. Rosser was sent to guard a road farther to
+the left, protecting that flank. Thus Rosser was isolated when the
+battle began and Hampton came into action with but two brigades on the
+line. Fitzhugh Lee was headed off by the First and Seventh Michigan and
+Gregg's brigade, so that, instead of coming to Hampton's assistance as
+intended, he was finally compelled to take the road leading directly to
+Trevilian Station instead of the one to Clayton's store. It will be seen
+later that he arrived there at an opportune moment to prevent the
+complete destruction of Hampton's division.
+
+The entire country between the North Anna river and the railroad was
+covered with timber and a dense undergrowth, except where there were
+occasional patches of cleared farm lands. When Torbert with his two
+brigades came into contact with Hampton, his line was found strongly
+posted in woods so dense that it was difficult to make headway against
+the defense. From the start, however, Sheridan was the aggressor and
+Hampton was forced to fight a defensive battle.
+
+In view of the rule laid down by General Sheridan himself (quoted in a
+footnote on page 241) a criticism might be made on the tactics of the
+battle. But whether the error, if it was an error, should be laid at the
+door of the chief of cavalry or of General Torbert there is no way of
+finding out, though there is reason to believe that the former left the
+tactics on the field to be worked out by the division commanders. Custer
+was ordered to take a country road and pass around the flank to the rear
+of the enemy confronting Torbert. The exact location of this road was
+unknown and Torbert states in his report that he was under a
+misapprehension about it; that it did not come out where he supposed it
+did; and that Custer by taking it lost touch with the other brigades
+which he was not able to regain until it was too late to accomplish the
+best results.
+
+Such "combinations rarely work out as expected" and Custer should have
+been put into action on the left of the line of battle; should have
+advanced with the division, keeping touch to the right, all the brigades
+in position to support each other. Then, by directing the entire
+movement in person, it is probable that Sheridan might have thrown his
+left forward, completely enveloping Hampton's right and crushing it
+before there was any possibility of receiving reinforcements. In that
+event, this turning movement would have been Custer's part of the
+battle, his regiments would have been kept together, under his eye, and
+well in hand for a combined movement at the right moment. Complete
+success must have followed.
+
+The road which Custer took leaves the North Anna river at New bridge,
+and runs to Trevilian Station. It crosses the Louisa Courthouse and
+Clayton store road east of Buck Chiles's farm. It intersects the direct
+road from Louisa Courthouse to Trevilian Station at a place designated
+on the map as "Netherland."
+
+When Custer started out in the morning the chances were that he would
+have a hard fight with Fitzhugh Lee at the outset. But it has been shown
+how, by the interposition of the First and Seventh Michigan and one of
+Gregg's brigades, that officer was obliged to abandon the plan of
+reaching Clayton's store and take the other road. So Custer, being
+relieved from pressure in that direction, started with the Fifth
+Michigan in advance, followed by Pennington's battery, to carry out his
+orders to get in Hampton's rear, at or near Trevilian Station. The
+advance guard was led by Major S.H. Hastings, one of the most daring
+officers in the brigade. At some point beyond the crossroads, east of
+Buck Chiles's farm, the exact location being a matter of great
+uncertainty, upon which the official reports shed no light whatever,
+Hastings discovered a train of wagons, caissons, led horses and other
+impedimenta, which he reported to the brigade commander and received
+orders to charge upon it, the charge to be supported by the entire
+regiment under Colonel Alger. This charge resulted in the capture of the
+outfit, but was continued for a long distance beyond the station, this
+being necessary in order to head off the train, which made a desperate
+effort to escape in the direction of Gordonsville. Custer's order to the
+Fifth did not contemplate continuing the pursuit beyond the station,
+since he was supposed to make a junction there with the other brigades
+of the First division. But those two brigades were still fighting with
+Hampton, and the Fifth Michigan was directly in the latter's rear.
+
+When this tumult arose in his rear, Hampton immediately recalled
+Rosser's brigade posted to protect his left flank, thereby leaving the
+way open for this foray around his right. Rosser, coming quickly upon
+the scene, not only intercepted Alger's retreat, but proceeded to
+contest with the Fifth Michigan the possession of the captures which
+that regiment had made.
+
+But, I am outrunning my story:
+
+The charge of the Fifth Michigan left Custer's front uncovered, and a
+force of confederates which belonged to Young's brigade and had probably
+been looking out for Hampton's right flank and rear, threw itself across
+his path and boldly challenged his right to advance. This was not a
+large body of troops, probably the Seventh Georgia cavalry, but it made
+up in audacity what it lacked in numbers. At that time--immediately
+after the charge of the Fifth Michigan--and before Rosser had begun his
+interference, Custer had with him only his staff and escort, and behind
+them was Pennington's battery which had no opportunity to come into
+action. The situation was apparently critical in the extreme.
+
+The only available regiment at the time to throw into the breach was the
+Sixth Michigan and that was just starting to move out of the woods where
+it had been encamped during the night. It was not supposed then that the
+battle was joined and, indeed, the expectation was that the march was to
+be a continuation of that of the previous day, although the picket
+firing in the early morning indicated the close proximity of the enemy.
+But that had been the case for a morning or two before. Before mounting,
+the officer in command had thoughtlessly acceded to the request of a
+brother officer to ride a spirited and nervous black horse belonging to
+the latter, as he expressed it, "To take the ginger out of him." In
+place of the regulation McClellan saddle the horse was equipped with one
+of those small affairs used by jockeys in riding race horses. This had
+been picked up en route. Horse and saddle certainly made an attractive
+looking mount, but not such an one as a cavalry officer with a sound
+mind would select for close work on the battle line. The narration of
+these circumstances will enable the reader to judge of how little the
+subordinate officers knew of the real impending situation. It can be
+stated with absolute certainty that the officers of the Sixth were
+innocent of any knowledge of the fact that Custer had started out for a
+fight, up to the moment when they were ordered to mount and move out of
+the woods into a road running along the east side.
+
+The commander of the regiment, mounted as described, and leading the
+column of files, not having yet formed fours, on account of the woods
+and brush, had barely reached the edge of the woods by the road, when a
+member of the brigade staff brought the order to, "Take the gallop and
+pass the battery." It is probable that this order was sent at the same
+time that the Fifth was sent forward to capture the train. Custer of
+course supposed that the Sixth was in column of fours in the road behind
+the battery. The commanding officer of the Sixth had moved out in
+compliance with orders and knew nothing about the conditions in front.
+The command, "Form fours, gallop, march" was given and a touch of the
+spur sent the black steed flying toward the front, followed as quickly
+as possible by the leading squadron of the regiment. A regimental staff
+officer remained to repeat the order to the other squadrons as they came
+into the road, successively.
+
+Approaching the crossroads, the conditions were revealed as described in
+a previous paragraph. Custer and his escort were exchanging shots with
+their revolvers, at short range, with the confederates in their front.
+The most remarkable coolness and courage were being displayed on both
+sides. The enemy certainly was commanded by an officer of resources who
+realized to the fullest extent the responsibility resting upon him to
+delay our further advance as long as possible. Custer never lost his
+nerve under any circumstances. He was, however, unmistakably excited.
+"Charge them" was his laconic command; and it was repeated with
+emphasis.
+
+Looking back to see that the leading squadron was pretty well closed up
+I gave the command, "Draw sabers" and, without waiting to form front
+into line, or for the remainder of the regiment, the column of fours
+charged straight at the line of confederates, the black horse leading.
+In a moment we were through the line. Just how it was done is to this
+day more or less of a mystery. The enemy gave way--scattered to the
+right and left--and did not await the contact. On down the road, one
+hundred, two hundred--it may have been five hundred--yards, but not more
+than that, at breakneck speed, the charge continued. Then it was seen
+that there was no enemy in front of us. Where was the enemy?
+
+Custer says in his report that Alger's orders were to stop at the
+station. The single word "charge" comprehended his order to me. Nothing
+was said about stopping. No warning was given that the Fifth had already
+charged and was ahead of us. Nor did I know it. The order had been
+obeyed to the letter. The enemy had apparently been dispersed. At all
+events he had disappeared from our front. At such times the mind acts
+quickly. The obvious course was to halt, rally, reform, see what was
+going on in rear, rejoin the brigade commander, get the regiment all
+together, for work where we were most needed. Finding that both hands
+were required to curb the excited steed which, up to that moment had not
+allowed another horse to come up with him, I returned my revolver to the
+holster and, when his speed began to slacken, and Captain Vinton,
+commander of the charging squadron, came alongside, gave the command,
+"Halt" which was twice repeated. My horse swerved to the right and, when
+brought to a standstill, was a little way in the woods. The clatter of
+hoofs behind had told me that I was followed, and I supposed it was by
+my own troopers. Not so, however. Vinton either did not hear, or was too
+much "under the influence of a pardonable excitement and zeal" to heed
+the order to halt, and continued on down the road to and beyond the
+station, where he overtook the rear of the Fifth and proceeded to assist
+in the endeavor to bring away the captured property. He was attacked by
+Rosser who made a lot of his men prisoners. The detachment that went
+with him did not rejoin the regiment until late in the afternoon and
+then less the men who had been captured.
+
+The word, "Surrender" uttered in imperious tones saluted my ear and,
+glancing over my left shoulder to find whence it came, I found that a
+well mounted and sturdy confederate officer had come up from my left
+rear and, addressing me in language both profane and apparently designed
+to cast reflections on my ancestry, declared that if I did not comply
+instantly with his polite request he would complete the front cut on my
+head. His men circling around in front with their carbines in the
+position of "ready" seemed to hint that they considered his demand a
+reasonable one and expressed a purpose to assist in enforcing it. Now,
+it is a maxim that no cavalry officer may surrender so long as he is not
+unhorsed. But in the situation in which I found myself there did not
+seem to be an available alternative. I surrendered, gave up the black
+horse and the jockey saddle, and never saw either of them afterwards.
+After the experience described I was glad to be rid of them on most any
+terms. Several others were captured at the same time and in the same
+way. One of them after being dismounted tried to run away but was
+quickly brought to a halt by a shot from a confederate's gun which
+wounded him.
+
+It appears that when we went through their line the rascally
+confederates rallied and, leaving Custer's front charged our rear.
+Custer says in his report that after "the Sixth Michigan charged the
+rebels charged that regiment in rear." When he wrote that report he had
+forgotten that it was only a portion--less than a third of the Sixth
+which charged. Two-thirds of the regiment was still back where he was
+and not yet in the action. There were two squadrons, one commanded by
+Captain Manning D. Birge, the other by Captain Don G. Lovell in reserve.
+In using the term squadron here I mean what in the civil war was known
+as a battalion (four troops). Vinton's squadron did not all take part in
+the charge.
+
+Four confederate cavalrymen undertook the duty of escorting myself and a
+young Sixth cavalryman who had been trapped in the same way to the rear
+through the woods. Anticipating that our attack would be followed up, we
+managed to delay our guards as much as possible, and had gone not more
+than a hundred yards when a yelling in the road proclaimed that the
+curtain had risen on the second scene of our little drama. Custer had
+ordered Birge to charge. Birge's advance put the confederates to flight,
+what there were left of them. The noise of the pursuit disconcerted our
+captors so that we took the chances and made our escape under cover
+of the thick undergrowth. They fired at us as we ran but did not succeed
+in making a hit. Fortunately Birge directed his course through the woods
+out of which the enemy had come and into which they had gone in their
+flight. In a minute we met him coming with a squad of men. He was
+greatly rejoiced to find that he had rescued me from my disagreeable
+predicament and, looking back across the years, I can see and freely
+acknowledge that to no man on this earth am I under greater obligations
+than to Manning D. Birge. But for his approach it might not have been
+possible for us to successfully make our break for freedom. That was the
+only time I ever was a prisoner of war and then only for about ten
+minutes. Custer, referring to my capture, says that I was rescued by a
+charge of my own regiment led by Captain Birge.
+
+[Illustration: MANNING D. BIRGE]
+
+Bidding Birge to follow my late captors I hurried out to the road and
+thence to the crossroads from which we had started so short a time
+before. Custer was still there. His battery was there. Most of the Sixth
+was halted there. My recollection is that the First and Seventh about
+that time joined Custer, after finding that Fitzhugh Lee had withdrawn
+from their front looking toward Louisa Courthouse. Birge's charge had
+cleared the road of the enemy, for the time being. Custer ordered that a
+rail barricade be thrown up across the road leading to the right, from
+which direction the attacks had been made on him. Putting the men of
+Vinton's and Birge's squadrons who were available at work, Lovell's
+squadron of four troops which was intact and well in hand under as good
+an officer as there was in the brigade, was posted in line mounted,
+parallel with the road, and behind a screen of timber, in readiness to
+repel any further attack.
+
+In a few minutes Sergeant Avery, one of the men who had gone with Birge
+in pursuit of the enemy from whom I had escaped, came in with a
+confederate prisoner splendidly mounted. Avery with cocked revolver was
+making his prisoner ride ahead of him and thus brought him in. Receiving
+orders to dismount, the man gave the horse a caress and with something
+very like a tear in his eye said:
+
+"That is the best horse in the Seventh Georgia cavalry."
+
+The horse, with Avery's consent was turned over to me to take the place
+of the captured black. He proved to be a prize. Handsome as a picture,
+kind and well broken, sound, spirited but tractable, with a glossy coat
+of silky luster, he was a mount that a real cavalryman would become
+attached to and be proud of. I rode him and he had the best of care
+until he succumbed to the cold weather and exposure near Winchester in
+the winter following. He was a finely bred southern horse and could not
+endure the climate.
+
+Birge was not so fortunate. When he went after his prisoners he caught a
+Tartar, or came very near it. The barricade was only partially
+completed, when yelling in front,--that is in the road leading to the
+right,--caused every one to look in that direction. Birge and a few of
+his men were seen coming at full speed with what looked like a good big
+squadron of the enemy at their heels. Mounting the Seventh Georgia
+horse, I rode around the barricade and into the field where Lovell was
+with his battalion. He had been placed there for just such an emergency.
+Birge did not stop until he had leaped his mare over the barricade. When
+the confederate column came up, Lovell surprised them with a volley
+right in their teeth, which sent them "whirling" back into the woods out
+of which they had come.
+
+This was the end of the fighting at that point. Taking with him the
+Seventh, under Lieutenant Colonel Brewer, and the battery Custer then
+moved on toward Trevilian Station, leaving the First under Lieutenant
+Colonel Stagg and the Sixth to bring up and look out for the rear. The
+affray at the crossroads had occupied less time than it takes to tell
+it. In giving the story it has been difficult to steer into the middle
+course between a seeming desire to give undue prominence to one's own
+part in the action, on one hand, and affectation of undue modesty, on
+the other. The only course appeared to be to narrate the incidents as
+they befell and leave it to the kind reader to judge the matter on its
+apparent merits.
+
+When Custer approached the station he found Rosser in his way on his
+front and right flank. Fitzhugh Lee, coming from Louisa Courthouse, also
+attacked his left flank. For a time there was a melee which had no
+parallel in the annals of cavalry fighting in the civil war, unless it
+may have been at Brandy Station or Buckland Mills. Custer's line was in
+the form of a circle and he was fighting an enterprising foe on either
+flank and both front and rear. Fitzhugh Lee charged and captured a
+section of Pennington's battery. The Seventh Michigan led by Brewer
+recaptured it. Fragments of all the regiments in the brigade rallied
+around Custer for the mounted fighting, of which there was plenty, while
+the First and Sixth dismounted took care of the rear. Custer was
+everywhere present giving directions to his subordinate commanders, and
+more than one mounted charge was participated in by him in person.
+
+Torbert's attack with Merritt's and Devin's brigades was at length
+successful in routing Hampton, whose men were driven into and through
+Custer's lines. Many of them were made prisoners. An officer and twelve
+men belonging to the Seventh Georgia cavalry, making for the rear as
+they supposed, came into the arms of the Sixth Michigan skirmishers at
+one time. The officer gave up his revolver to me and it proved to be a
+very fine five shooting arm of English make.
+
+In the final stages of the battle, Gregg concentrated against Fitzhugh
+Lee, Torbert effected his junction with Custer, and the latter was
+extricated from his difficult and dangerous predicament, after
+performing prodigies of valor. The lines changed front and the
+confederates were driven across the railroad, Hampton towards
+Gordonsville, Lee to the eastward. The two did not succeed in coming
+together that night, and Lee was obliged to make a wide detour in order
+to reunite with his chief on the afternoon of the next day, Sunday, June
+12.
+
+The entire command encamped on the battle field in the neighborhood of
+Trevilian Station for the night. The next morning Gregg was set at work
+tearing up the railroad toward Louisa Courthouse. The First division was
+given a rest until the afternoon when, at about three o'clock, although
+it was Sunday, the order came for the First division to proceed in the
+direction of Gordonsville. In the meantime, the forces of Hampton and
+Lee had united and, as will be seen, had planned to stop Sheridan's
+further progress at all hazards. There is some reason to believe that a
+part of Breckinridge's infantry had come out from Gordonsville to
+reinforce Hampton. Such was the impression at the time, and one at
+least, of Sheridan's commanders, states in his report that he was
+confronted by infantry. The writer is of the opinion that the "infantry"
+was Butler's dismounted cavalry which, when in a good position as they
+were that day, could do as good fighting as any infantry in the
+confederate service.
+
+The Michigan brigade moved out first and the Sixth had the advance. The
+order was to proceed to a certain point named and then halt until the
+division closed up. Memory does not recall what the place was, but is
+quite clear as to that being the specific direction given by General
+Custer to the officer in command of the advance regiment. We had gone
+but a short distance, not more than a mile or two at most, when the
+advance guard reported the enemy entrenched across the way. Skirmishing
+began at once between our mounted men in front and dismounted
+confederates behind breastworks of considerable strength. A squadron was
+deployed and Sergeant Avery was directed to make his way far enough into
+the woods to find, if possible, what we had in our front. He came back
+in about ten minutes and reported that the breastworks in our immediate
+front were thoroughly manned, and that he had seen a column of at least
+a thousand men moving into the entrenchments on the enemy's right, in
+front of our left flank. He was sent back to give Custer this
+information, and the general came up and ordered the entire regiment to
+be dismounted to fight on foot. The Sixth was put in on the right of the
+road and directly thereafter the Seventh was sent in on the left. It did
+not take long to demonstrate that two regiments were not enough and the
+First and Fifth went into the action on the right of the Sixth. Then
+Torbert reinforced the line with the Reserve brigade and a portion of
+the Second, all under Merritt. The entire division became engaged.
+Several assaults were made upon the confederate line but without
+success. They were in each instance repulsed. Fitzhugh Lee got in on the
+right flank of the division and inflicted severe damage upon the Reserve
+brigade. We have never been able to understand why, if it was intended
+to break the enemy's line, Gregg's division was not brought into the
+engagement to protect that flank. General Merritt in his report
+intimates that he had to do more than his share of fighting; that when
+the Reserve brigade advanced to the assault on the right it was supposed
+that the attack would be pressed on the left; that it was not so pressed
+and that his brigade suffered unduly on that account. This is another
+case of a man being unable to see all that is going on in a battle. The
+Michigan brigade was on the left of the line. It was the first brigade
+engaged. It began the fight and stayed in it till the end. Harder
+fighting has rarely been done than that which fell to the Michigan men
+in that battle. Several attempts were made to drive the enemy from their
+front. The First Michigan especially made a charge across an open field
+in the face of a terrible fire from behind breastworks, going half way
+across before they were repulsed. When the First Michigan could not
+stand before a storm of bullets, no other regiment in the cavalry corps
+need try. That is a certainty. The losses in killed and wounded were
+very severe, as will be shown in a table printed at the end of this
+chapter.
+
+[Illustration: SERGEANT AVERY]
+
+The fighting continued till ten o'clock that night, when Sheridan
+decided to withdraw and abandon the expedition. It is worthy of remark
+that the entire division was unable to advance one inch beyond the place
+where the advance guard first encountered the enemy and where Sergeant
+Avery made the reconnoissance which revealed to General Custer the true
+situation. Poor Avery was killed while doing his duty as he always did
+in the very front of the battle in the place of greatest danger. Captain
+Lovell and Lieutenant Luther Canouse of the Sixth were wounded; Captain
+Carr, and Lieutenants Pulver and Warren of the First Michigan were
+killed, and Captain Duggan and Lieutenant Bullock of the same regiment
+wounded. Captains Hastings and Dodge of the Fifth were wounded; also
+Lieutenant Colonel Brewer of the Seventh was wounded on the eleventh.
+
+The casualties in the two days' fighting at Trevilian Station were very
+severe. The losses in killed and died from wounds received in the action
+aggregated in the brigade forty one, as follows:[28]
+
+   First Michigan                            13
+   Fifth Michigan                             8
+   Sixth Michigan                            17
+   Seventh Michigan                           3
+                                            ---
+   Total                                     41
+
+Of prisoners lost there were in all two hundred and forty-two,
+distributed as follows:
+
+   First Michigan                            39
+   Fifth Michigan                           102
+   Sixth Michigan                            58
+   Seventh Michigan                          43
+                                            ---
+   Total                                    242
+
+Of those who were captured and held as prisoners of war, eighty-eight
+died in southern prisons--most of them in Andersonville--as follows:[29]
+
+   First Michigan                            12
+   Fifth Michigan                            35
+   Sixth Michigan                            26
+   Seventh Michigan                          15
+                                            ---
+   Total                                     88
+
+The battle of Trevilian Station practically ended the fighting which was
+done by the Michigan brigade in the campaign from the Rapidan to the
+James. Sheridan's retreat was skilfully conducted but was not especially
+eventful. A tabulated statement of the losses in the command, beginning
+in the Wilderness, May 6, and ending at Trevilian Station June 12, is
+appended hereto. By losses I mean killed in action or died of wounds
+received in action. It is not possible to give a reliable statement of
+the wounded, reports of regimental commanders being very deficient in
+that particular. The table is compiled from the official records in the
+office of the adjutant general of Michigan and is believed to be
+approximately correct:
+
+                        First   Fifth    Sixth   Seventh
+                      Michigan Michigan Michigan Michigan Total
+
+   Wilderness             2        3        4       --      9
+   Todd's Tavern          3       --       --        1      4
+   Beaver Dam Station     1       --       --       --      1
+   Yellow Tavern         14        7        3        9     33
+   Meadow Bridge         --       --        2       --      2
+   Hanovertown           --       --        3       --      3
+   Haw's Shop             5       13       18        6     42
+   Old Church             2       --       --        1      3
+   Cold Harbor            5        1        1        3     10
+   Trevilian Station     13        8       17        3     41
+                       ----     ----     ----     ----    ----
+   Total                 45       32       48       23    148
+
+Recapitulation--Killed and died of wounds, the Rapidan to the James:
+
+   First Michigan                            45
+   Fifth Michigan                            32
+   Sixth Michigan                            48
+   Seventh Michigan                          23
+                                            ---
+   Total                                    148
+
+In General Merritt's official report[30] for the period May 26 to June
+26, he makes the following statement:
+
+   "The losses in killed and wounded, (in the Reserve brigade,) are
+   annexed in tabular statement. As they number more than the loss of
+   the entire rest of the command they sufficiently attest the severe
+   services of the brigade."
+
+When General Merritt says "the entire rest of the command" we shall
+assume that he means "the entire rest" of the First division. We have no
+desire to make invidious comparisons, and have avoided doing so
+throughout these recollections. The Reserve brigade was a fine brigade
+and always fought well, and never better than at Trevilian Station and
+in the battles immediately preceding that engagement. To prove that his
+comparison was not warranted it is necessary only to refer to the
+official records. On page 810 of the same volume,[31] appended to the
+report of General Torbert, for the same period covered by General
+Merritt's report, we find:
+
+    Reserve Brigade--
+      Officers killed               6
+      Officers wounded             17
+                                 ----
+      Officers killed and wounded       23
+
+    Reserve Brigade--
+      Men killed                   57
+      Men wounded                 275
+                                 ----  332
+                                      ----
+    Total officers and men killed and wounded   355
+
+    Second Brigade--
+      Officers killed                   2
+      Officers wounded                 15
+                                     ----
+      Officers killed and wounded            17
+    Second Brigade--
+      Men killed                       42
+      Men wounded                     163
+                                     ----
+      Men killed and wounded                205
+                                           ----
+      Total officers and men killed and wounded  222
+
+    First Brigade--
+      Officers killed                   3
+      Officers wounded                 12
+                                     ----
+      Officers killed and wounded            15
+
+    First Brigade--
+      Men killed                       62
+      Men wounded                     192
+                                     ----
+      Men killed and wounded                254
+                                           ----
+      Total officers and men killed and wounded  269
+    Total killed and wounded First and Second Brigades  491
+    Total killed and wounded Reserve Brigade            355
+
+The Reserve brigade comprised five regiments, two of volunteers and
+three of regulars. The Michigan brigade consisted of four regiments, of
+course, all volunteers. One third of the losses in killed and wounded at
+Trevilian Station in the Reserve brigade were in the single regiment,
+the First New York dragoons. My authority for this is still the official
+records. See page 186 of the volume already quoted and referred to in
+the footnote. Close analysis, therefore, shows that there are
+inconsistencies in the official records, and unguarded statements in the
+official reports.
+
+The rest of the month of June was consumed in the return march to the
+army. Owing to the necessity of caring for a large number of wounded and
+of guarding several hundred prisoners, to say nothing of an army of
+colored people of all ages and of both sexes who joined the procession,
+it was necessary to take a tortuous course which traversed the
+Spottsylvania battle ground, touched at Bowling Green, followed the
+north bank of the Mattapony river, reaching King and Queen Courthouse
+June 18. From this place the sick, wounded and prisoners were sent to
+West Point. On the 19th we marched to Dunkirk, on the Mattapony river,
+which was crossed on a pontoon bridge and thence to the Pamunkey,
+opposite White House. June 21, the entire command crossed the Pamunkey
+at White House and marched the next day (June 22) to Jones's bridge on
+the Chickahoming. June 25 reached the James river and on the 28th
+crossed that river to Windmill Point. From here the First and Second
+divisions were sent to Reams's Station to the relief of the Third
+division under Wilson which had run into a situation similar to, if not
+more serious than that which Custer faced on the 11th at Trevilian.
+Finding that officer safe, we returned to Lighthouse Point and settled
+down--after having fought and marched for fifty-six consecutive
+days--for a period of rest and recuperation. During the entire march
+from Trevilian to the James, Hampton hovered on the flank of Sheridan's
+column, watching for a favorable opportunity to inflict a blow, but
+avoiding a general engagement. In crossing from the Pamunkey to the
+James, Sheridan was charged with the duty of escorting a train of 900
+wagons from the White House to Douthat's Landing on the James. General
+Gregg was entrusted with the responsibility of protecting the right
+flank, which placed him in the post of danger, and the brunt of the
+fighting as well as the greater part of the honors of the movement fell
+to his share. Indeed, General Sheridan in his official report, written
+in New Orleans a year after the war closed, gave Gregg credit for saving
+the train.
+
+The time from July 2, when we returned to Lighthouse Point on the James
+river, to July 26 was quiet and uneventful. Many hundred convalescent
+wounded and sick men returned from hospital to duty; many also who had
+been dismounted by the exigencies of the campaign returned from
+dismounted camps. A fine lot of new horses were received. During the
+month the condition of the animals was very much improved, good care and
+a plentiful supply of forage contributing to the result. The duty
+performed was to picket the left flank of the army, the Michigan
+regiments connecting with Crawford's division of the Fifth corps.
+
+The story of the participation of the cavalry with the Second corps in
+the movement to the north side of the James, which began on the forenoon
+of July 26, has been so fully and so well told by General Sheridan in
+his reports and in his memoirs that nothing is left to be added. In fact
+there is little, if anything, in the part taken by any portion of the
+force taken across by Sheridan and Hancock to differentiate it from that
+played by the whole. The object of the movement was to draw the enemy's
+attention away from the lines around Petersburg preparatory for the
+explosion of the mine which was to take place on the 30th. In this it
+was successful. General Lee mistook the attack on his left for real
+instead of a feint, and detached enough troops to meet it to not only
+assure the success of the attack on Petersburg, if it had been made with
+determination, but to seriously menace the safety of the two corps
+engaged in the movement. General Sheridan truthfully says that, "The
+movement to the north side of the James for the accomplishment of our
+part of the plan connected with the mine explosion, was well executed,
+and every point made; but it was attended with such anxiety and
+sleeplessness as to prostrate almost every officer and man in the
+command."
+
+This was the last incident of importance connected with the services of
+the First cavalry division with the army of the Potomac in the year
+1864. August 1, Sheridan was ordered to the Shenandoah Valley and
+selected the First and Third cavalry divisions to go with him.
+
+Since this is in some sort a personal narrative it may be of interest to
+mention that while at Lighthouse Point I received my commission as
+colonel and, July 9, was mustered out of the United States service as
+major--with which rank I had been commanding the regiment--and was
+mustered in in the new grade. The promotion, which was unsought, was due
+to a request made to the governor, signed by all the officers of the
+regiment serving in the field, and recommended by General Custer. On the
+original petition, on file in the adjutant general's office in Lansing,
+is an endorsement in the general's own handwriting.[32]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI
+
+IN THE SHENANDOAH VALLEY
+
+
+When Grant sent Sheridan to take charge of things in the Shenandoah
+Valley, and close that gateway to the north, he gave him one corps of
+infantry (Sixth) and two divisions of cavalry (First and Third) from the
+army of the Potomac. The Michigan cavalry brigade, still commanded by
+General George A. Custer, was a part of that force. It embarked on
+transports at City Point, Virginia, August 3, 1864, and proceeded to
+Washington, D.C., thence by the way of Poolesville, Maryland, to
+Halltown, Virginia, in front of Harper's Ferry, arriving there August
+10, in time to join in the advance of the new army of the Middle
+Military Division,[33] under its new commander.
+
+Gregg with the Second division was left behind, under the immediate
+direction of General Meade, and thus, much to their regret, the Michigan
+men parted finally with that fine officer and his superb command, with
+whom they had been associated so intimately and honorably at Gettysburg,
+Haw's Shop, and in many other places. When they rejoined the army of
+the Potomac, in the spring of 1865, he had retired from the service.
+They never saw him again but, from the eventful days of 1863 and 1864 to
+the present time, they have never ceased to respect him as a soldier and
+a man; and he always had their entire confidence as a commander of
+cavalry.
+
+Sheridan wanted Early to cross into Maryland or to fight him in and
+around Winchester, but was in the dark as to his adversary's intentions
+or movements, so at daylight, August 11, he started a reconnoissance in
+force. Custer led the way across the Opequon creek, toward Winchester,
+and soon ran into Early's infantry. A sharp fight followed which showed
+that Early was retreating up the valley. Ransom's regular battery,
+attached to the brigade, was charged by confederate infantry, which was
+met and repulsed by a countercharge of one battalion of the Sixth
+Michigan cavalry led by Captain James Mathers, who was killed. Sheridan
+had left the gateway via the fords of the Potomac river open, but Early
+was too foxy to take the lure. He was getting away as fast as he could
+to a place of safety.
+
+The pursuit was instantly taken up and the next day (12th) found us up
+against infantry again at Fisher's Hill, between Cedar Creek and
+Strasburg, a position impregnable against direct assault. For three days
+we remained face to face with Early's infantry, constantly so close as
+to draw their fire and keep them in their intrenchments.
+
+On the 16th we marched to Front Royal. Sheridan had information that a
+force of infantry and cavalry had been despatched from Richmond to
+reinforce Early and, incidentally, to strike Sheridan in flank or rear,
+if he could be caught napping. The force consisted of Kershaw's division
+of infantry and Fitzhugh Lee's division of cavalry, all commanded by
+General R. H. Anderson. The route by which they were supposed to be
+approaching was through Chester Gap and Front Royal. If they could have
+reached the Shenandoah river and effected a crossing undiscovered, a
+short march would have brought them to Newtown, directly in rear of our
+army.
+
+Custer crossed and marched through Front Royal but no enemy was found.
+He then recrossed and took position on commanding ground half a mile or
+so back from the river, and ordered the horses to be unsaddled and fed
+and the men to cook their dinner. Headquarters wagons were brought up,
+mess chests taken out, and we were just gathering around them to partake
+of a hastily prepared meal, when Fitzhugh Lee's cavalry, which had
+stealthily approached the ford, charged across and made a dash at our
+pickets. Major H.H. Vinton, of the Sixth Michigan was in command of the
+picket line and promptly rallying on his reserves, he courageously met
+Lee's attack and checked it. That dinner was never eaten. Custer's
+bugler sounded "to horse." As if by magic, the men were in the saddle.
+Custer dashed out with his staff and ordered the Fifth Michigan
+forward, to be followed by the other regiments, I supposed he would
+charge in the direction of the ford, where Fitzhugh Lee's cavalry was
+still contending with the Sixth Michigan. He did nothing of the kind.
+Moving diagonally to the left, he reached the crest overlooking the
+river just in time to surprise Kershaw in the act of crossing. The Fifth
+Michigan deployed into line in fine style and opened such a hot fire
+with their Spencers, that the head of Kershaw's column was completely
+crushed. Every confederate who was across was either killed or captured.
+Many of those who were in the water were drowned and those on the other
+side were kept there. Just then, Devin's brigade came up, and helped to
+drive the cavalry across the river. The prisoners, all infantry,
+numbered from three to five hundred.
+
+This rencounter at Front Royal was one of the most brilliant affairs of
+the war and it illustrated well the marvelous intuition with which
+General Custer often grasped the situation, in an instant of time. He
+did not anticipate Kershaw's movement or he would not have given the
+order to unsaddle. It was a surprise but he was alert, and equal to the
+emergency. He was as bold to act as his perceptions were keen, and the
+incident recalls the intrepidity with which he met Rosser in the
+Wilderness under somewhat similar circumstances. Had he charged the
+cavalry, Anderson would have effected a crossing, and in a very short
+time might have had the Michigan brigade at such disadvantage that it
+would have required all of Custer's boldness and skill to extricate it.
+Custer divined that the dash of Lee's advance was a mask for the
+infantry, and by a movement that would have done credit to Murat or Ney,
+caught Kershaw astride the river and trapped him completely. The
+behavior of the Fifth Michigan was never more "superb." I do not believe
+that a single regiment, on either side, at any time, during the entire
+war, performed a more brilliant deed. Major Vinton and his detachment
+also earned especial praise by interrupting without aid, the first onset
+of Fitzhugh Lee's advance. The First and Seventh Michigan supported the
+Fifth in a most gallant manner. General Custer had a lock of hair shot
+away from his temple and Lieutenant Granger of his staff was killed.
+Lieutenant Lucius Carver of the Seventh also lost his life in the
+engagement.
+
+After this fight it was found that Sheridan had begun a retrograde
+movement down the valley to take a defensive position in front of
+Halltown. The brigade brought up the rear, the Sixth Michigan acting as
+rear guard.
+
+From the 16th to the 25th of August, it was marching and
+countermarching, picketing, reconnoitering and skirmishing, continually.
+Both armies were maneuvering for position and advantage. Anderson's
+reinforcement had joined Early and, with the esprit of the Army of
+Northern Virginia, was constantly pushing close up to our lines and
+harassing us. The Michigan brigade was mostly engaged with infantry and
+did not once, I believe, come into contact with the confederate cavalry.
+It was a lonesome day, indeed, when their mettle was not put to the
+proof in a skirmish with either Kershaw or Breckinridge. But one
+incident occurred to break the monotony. A part of the Fifth Michigan
+sent out to destroy some buildings supposed to contain supplies, was
+surprised by Mosby's command and fifteen men were killed outright. They
+were caught in a field where escape was impossible and shot without
+mercy. The Sixth was sent out to reinforce the Fifth and we searched far
+and near for the dashing partisan but did not succeed in coming up with
+him. He departed as swiftly as he came and made his escape to the
+mountains.
+
+Sheridan had, in his turn, been reinforced by Wilson's division of
+cavalry (Third) and, on the 25th, Torbert[34] was sent out with
+Merritt's and Wilson's divisions, to hunt up Fitzhugh Lee, who was
+reported to have gone in the direction of the fords leading into
+Maryland. At or near Kearneysville, a small force of cavalry was
+encountered which was driven rapidly along the road toward Leetown.
+Nearing the latter place, the inevitable infantry was found and it
+turned out to be Breckinridge's corps, going north along the Smithfield
+and Shepherdstown pike. Shepherdstown is on the Potomac river, opposite
+Sharpsburg and the Antietam battle ground.
+
+It never will be known what Breckinridge was intending to do, for he
+turned on Torbert and did not resume his journey. The collision was a
+complete surprise to both parties, but Early's design, whatever it may
+have been, was disarranged, the movement was discovered and, though the
+cavalry had rather the worst of it, the information gained was worth all
+it cost. If Early had been contemplating an invasion of Maryland, he
+relinquished the design and did not revive it.
+
+Torbert, finding that he had more than he could handle, fell back toward
+Halltown, leaving Custer with his brigade for a rear guard. Custer,
+coming to a piece of woods south of Shepherdstown, neither the enemy nor
+our own cavalry being in sight, halted and had his men dismount to rest,
+they having been in the saddle since early morning. We were all sitting
+or lying down with bridle reins in hand, taking our ease with more or
+less dignity, when a small body of confederate horse made its appearance
+in the direction of Shepherdstown. The brigade mounted and started in
+pursuit but had hardly been put in motion when a line of infantry
+suddenly appeared in the woods we were vacating and opened fire upon us.
+The confederate horsemen were driven away by the First and Seventh and,
+when General Custer rallied his brigade to confront the new danger, he
+found that Breckinridge had intercepted his retreat in the direction
+the rest of the cavalry had gone, and was closing in with a line that
+threatened to envelop the brigade. In a few moments, the enemy's right
+and left flanks began to swing in towards the river and he found himself
+face to face with two alternatives: To cut his way through, or fall back
+and take the risky chance of fording the river, with Breckinridge close
+at his heels. Of course there was no thought of surrender and Custer was
+not much given to showing his heels. Torbert left Custer to shift for
+himself. So far as I ever was able to learn, he made no effort to save
+his plucky subordinate and the report that the Michigan brigade had been
+captured was generally credited, in and around Harper's Ferry.
+
+Custer, with surprising coolness, put his brigade into line, the Sixth
+on the right, the First, Fifth and Seventh to the left of the Sixth, the
+battery in the center, with backs to the river and faces to the enemy,
+and presented so bold a front that the infantry did not charge, but
+moved up slowly, maneuvering to get around and obtain possession of the
+ford in rear. Custer had the men cheer and dared them to come on. With
+characteristic audacity, he actually unlimbered his pieces and gave them
+a charge or two right in their teeth; then limbering to the rear he took
+successive new positions and repeated the performance.
+
+While holding one of these points, a squadron of the First New York
+dragoons, of Devin's brigade, which also in some way had been separated
+from its command, was driven in from the right, and, riding up to where
+I was, the commanding officer, Captain Brittain, saluted and said:
+
+"Colonel, I am cut off from my own regiment and wish to report to you
+for duty."
+
+"Form your men to the right," I said. "It looks as if your aid would be
+very acceptable."
+
+"I have no cartridges. We have shot them all away."
+
+"You have sabers."
+
+"Yes, and by ---- they are loaded," he retorted, as he brought his men
+front into line on the right.
+
+Captain Brittain survived the war and came to Michigan to live. He often
+has sent me kindly reminders of his remembrance of the circumstances as
+narrated above. For many years he had a home in Wexford county, and I
+last heard of him as prospering on the Pacific coast.
+
+At that moment, the thing had a critical look. We were inside a
+horseshoe of infantry, the extremities of which very nearly reached the
+river. We had to go through that line, or through the river, or
+surrender. Breckinridge's line was in plain sight, not a half mile away,
+in the open and moving up in splendid order. So far as I am informed,
+Custer was the only man in the command who knew that there was a ford
+and that we were making for it. The rest were screwing their courage up
+to the task of breaking through. I never have ceased to admire the
+nerve exhibited by Captain Brittain, when I told him it looked as if
+that was what we would have to do. He was an excellent officer and
+belonged to an excellent regiment.
+
+"My sabers are loaded."
+
+The greatest coolness was displayed by General Custer and his entire
+command. There was not a hint of weakness or fear in any quarter. The
+brigade, at each falling back, ployed from line into column and deployed
+into line again, as if on parade, with Breckinridge and his corps for
+the spectators. Every movement was at a walk. There was no haste--no
+confusion. Every officer was on his mettle and every man a hero.
+
+Presently, Custer finally withdrew his battery, then the regiments one
+at a time, and slipped away into Maryland before the enemy realized what
+he was doing.
+
+The delicate duty of bringing up the rear was entrusted to Colonel Alger
+with his own regiment and the Sixth. I was ordered to report to him. The
+battery crossed first, then the First and Seventh, the brigade staff and
+general commanding.
+
+The two regiments stood in line, watching the enemy closing in closer
+and closer until this was accomplished. Then Colonel Alger told me to
+go. He followed leisurely and, as the Fifth and Sixth were marching up
+the Maryland bank, a line of confederates came up on the other side, and
+so astounded were they to see how we had escaped from their grasp, that
+some of them actually cheered, so I have been informed. They had been
+deceived by the audacity of Custer and his men in the first place and by
+the cleverness with which they eluded capture in the second.
+
+The battle of Shepherdstown was the last in which Colonel Alger was
+engaged. While the brigade was lying in camp on the Maryland side
+awaiting orders, he was taken sick and was sent to hospital by order of
+the brigade surgeon. He was assigned to special duty by order of
+President Lincoln and did not rejoin. The esteem in which he was held by
+General Custer and the confidence which that officer reposed in him to
+the last moment of his service in the brigade is amply evidenced by the
+selection of him to lead the attack on Kershaw at Front Royal and to
+bring up the rear at Shepherdstown. The coolness and ability of the
+officers and the intrepidity of the men in the Michigan cavalry brigade
+were never more thoroughly tested than in those two battles. Custer was
+the hero of both and Alger was his right arm. At Meadow Bridge, at
+Yellow Tavern and in all the battles of that eventful campaign, wherever
+they were associated together, wherever the one wanted a man tried,
+true, trained and trustworthy, there he would put the other. No
+misunderstandings that arose later can alter the significance or break
+the force of these cold facts.
+
+In the battle of Shepherdstown Captain Frederick Augustus Buhl, of the
+First Michigan was mortally wounded, dying a few days later. He was a
+Detroit boy, and a classmate of mine in Ann Arbor when the war broke
+out. I was deeply grieved at his death as I had learned to love him like
+a brother. He was conspicuous for his gallantry in all the engagements
+in which he participated, especially at Front Royal and Shepherdstown.
+
+For two days the brigade was lost. For a time the report of its capture
+was generally credited. That it escaped, no thanks were due to General
+Torbert, the chief of cavalry. It is not likely that he knew anything
+about what a predicament he had left Custer in. The latter was, as
+usual, equal to the emergency.
+
+I must pass now rapidly over a period of nearly a month, devoted, for
+the most part, to reconnoitering and retreating, to the eve of the
+battle of Winchester.
+
+September 18, about 8 o'clock in the evening, I went to headquarters to
+consult Dr. Wooster, brigade surgeon, about the condition of my health.
+I was very feeble, unable to eat, my eyes and skin the color of certain
+newspapers during the Spanish-American war. The doctor told me I must go
+home and insisted on making out a certificate of disability, on which I
+might obtain a "leave of absence." General Custer and most of his staff
+were present. I recall the circumstances very well, for a conversation
+in which the general asked me confidentially certain questions, was
+incautiously repeated by some one who was present and returned to vex me
+after many years. I returned to my own camp about nine or half past
+nine, much cast down over the doctor's diagnosis of my case. I mention
+all this to show how secretly the preparations for the eventful next day
+had been made. Not a word was dropped during my long interview with the
+general and his staff to arouse the suspicion that the army was about to
+attack Early. Yet, at midnight, orders were received to be ready to move
+at two o'clock in the morning. Before that hour, horses were in line
+saddled, the men ready to mount. My cook made a cup of tea and a slice
+of toast. I drank half of the tea but could not eat the toast. At three
+o'clock I mounted my favorite saddle horse "Billy" and by order of
+General Custer, led my regiment in advance of the division, toward
+Locke's Ford on the Opequon creek. Nothing was said, but every one knew
+that the army was in motion and that great things were in store for us.
+
+[Illustration: BATTLE FIELD OF WINCHESTER VA.]
+
+We neared the ford about daylight. There was a faint hope that the enemy
+might be taken by surprise and the ford captured without resistance, as
+it was a difficult crossing when bravely defended. In this, however, we
+were doomed to disappointment, for an alert foe was found awaiting the
+attack. Indeed, they must have known of the federal approach. Halting an
+eighth of a mile back and out of sight, Custer directed me to dismount
+the regiment and move in column of fours through a ravine at right
+angles with the creek. This ravine ran out at the top, where it reached
+the edge of a plowed field. This field extended some 100 or 150 yards to
+the crest overlooking the ford. Along the crest were fences,
+outbuildings, and the farm house. Thence, there was an abrupt descent to
+the bed of the Opequon Creek. This side hill slope consisted of cleared
+fields divided by fences. The hill where the house and barns were, also
+sloped off to the left. The road to the ford skirted the hill to the
+left till it reached the bank, then ran parallel with the creek to a
+point about on a line with the farm house, where it turned to the left
+and, crossing the stream, took a serpentine course up the opposite
+slope. This latter was wooded and dotted on both sides of the road with
+piles of rails behind which were posted infantry sharpshooters.
+
+The leading files had barely reached the summit, at the edge of the
+plowed ground, when the enemy opened fire on the head of the column of
+fours, before the regiment had debouched. There was momentary confusion,
+as the sharpshooters appeared to have the exact range. The regiment
+deployed forward into line under fire, and with General Custer by my
+side we charged across the field to the crest. Custer was the only
+mounted man in the field. Reaching the houses and fences, the Sixth
+proceeded to try to make it as uncomfortable for the confederates as
+they had been doing for us. General Custer had gone back to direct the
+movements of the other regiments which were still under cover in the
+rear.
+
+The charge prostrated me. I succeeded in getting across the field,
+cheered on by the gallant Custer, who rode half way, but then fell down
+and for a minute or two could not stand on my feet. I suppose my pale
+face and weak condition made a very fair presentment of a colonel
+demoralized by fright. It was a case of complete physical exhaustion.
+While it is probably for the most part moral rather than physical
+courage that spurs men into battle, it is equally true that good health
+and a sound body are a good background for the display of moral courage.
+If any of my friends think that jaundice and an empty stomach are a good
+preparation for leading a charge across a plowed field in the face of an
+intrenched foe I hope that they never may be called upon to put their
+belief to the proof.
+
+Custer then sent orders to engage the enemy as briskly as possible and
+directed the Twenty-fifth New York[35] followed by the Seventh Michigan,
+to take the ford mounted. The attempt was a failure, however, for the
+head of the New York regiment after passing the defile around the left,
+when it reached the crossing, instead of taking it, kept on and,
+circling to the right, came back to the point from which it started;
+thus, in effect, reversing the role of the French army which charged up
+a hill and then charged down again. The Seventh Michigan having received
+orders to follow the other regiment, obeyed and did not see the mistake
+until too late to rectify it, much to the chagrin of that gallant
+officer, Lieutenant Colonel Brewer, who commanded it, and who later in
+the day, laid down his life.
+
+The First Michigan was then ordered up to make the attempt. That
+regiment moved in column down the road to the foot of the hill at the
+left and halted. Two squadrons, commanded by Captain George R. Maxwell,
+an officer of the most undoubted courage, were detailed as an advance
+guard to lead the charge. Some minutes passed and the sharpshooters
+began to annoy the mounted men of the First. Major Howrigan, of that
+regiment, thinking that the Sixth ought to occupy the attention of the
+enemy so completely as to shield his men from annoyance, galloped up to
+where I was, and excitedly asked if we could not make it hotter for
+them.
+
+"They are shooting my men off their horses," he shouted. As he halted to
+deliver this message, a bullet struck the saddlebag in rear of his left
+leg. Reaching back he unbuckled the strap, lifted the flap, and pulling
+out a cork inserted in the neck of what had been a glass flask,
+exclaimed: "Blankety blank their blank souls, they have broken my whisky
+bottle." Saying which, he wheeled and galloped back through a shower of
+whistling bullets.
+
+General Custer then sent orders by a staff officer for the Sixth to
+advance dismounted and support the charge of the First. The Seventh was
+also brought up mounted to charge the ford at the same time.
+Preparations for this final attack were just about completed when it was
+discovered that the confederates were leaving their cover and falling
+back. Lowell had effected a crossing at another ford and was threatening
+the flank of the force in our front. The Sixth moved forward with a
+cheer. All the regiments advanced to the attack simultaneously, and the
+crossing of the Opequon was won. A sharp fight followed on the other
+side with Early's infantry in which a portion of the First Michigan led
+by the gallant Captain Maxwell made a most intrepid charge on infantry
+posted in the woods behind a rail fence.
+
+The cavalry soon had the force opposed to it fleeing toward Winchester,
+but making a stand from time to time, so that it took from daylight in
+the morning until nearly three o'clock in the afternoon to cover the
+distance of three or four miles between the crossing of the Opequon and
+the outskirts of the town after which the battle has been named, though,
+perhaps, it is more correctly styled "The battle of the Opequon."
+Breckinridge's infantry and Fitzhugh Lee's cavalry, the same gallant
+adversaries who hustled us over into Maryland in such lively fashion
+during the previous month, stood in the way and made vigorous efforts to
+stop our progress. It was a case of hunted turned hunter and the
+Wolverines more than balanced the account charged up against
+Breckinridge for the affair at Shepherdstown, August 25. To borrow an
+illustration from the Rugby game, the cavalry kept working around the
+end for gains until a touchdown and goal were scored at five o'clock in
+the afternoon.
+
+The battle was fought along the Martinsburg pike, the enemy being
+flanked or driven from one position to another until all the brigades of
+Merritt's and Averell's[36] divisions, which had been converging toward
+a common point, came together about a mile out of Winchester.
+
+As that place was approached, the signs and sounds of a great battle
+became startlingly distinct. The roar of artillery and the rattle of
+small arms saluted the ear. Within sight of the fortifications, around
+that historic town, a duel was raging between the infantry of the two
+armies. The lines of blue and gray were in plain sight off to the left.
+Puffs of smoke and an angry roar told where the opposing batteries were
+planted. Dense masses of smoke enveloped the lines. From the heights to
+the front and right, cannon belched fire and destruction.
+
+The Union cavalrymen were now all mounted. The Michigan brigade was on
+the left of the turnpike; to its left, the brigades of Devin and Lowell;
+on the right, Averell's division of two brigades--five brigades in
+all--each brigade in line of squadron columns, double ranks. This made a
+front of more than half a mile, three lines deep, of mounted men. That
+is to say, it was more than half a mile from Averell's right to
+Merritt's left. At almost the same moment of time, the entire line
+emerged from the woods into the sunlight. A more enlivening and imposing
+spectacle never was seen. Guidons fluttered and sabers glistened.
+Officers vied with their men in gallantry and in zeal. Even the horses
+seemed to catch the inspiration of the scene and emulated the martial
+ardor of their riders. Then a left half wheel began the grand flanking
+movement which broke Early's left flank and won the battle.
+
+When the Michigan brigade came out of the woods, it found a line of
+confederate horse behind a stone fence. This was the last stand that
+Fitzhugh Lee, who commanded Early's cavalry, attempted to make. Indeed,
+it was here, probably, that he received the wound which rendered him
+hors de combat. General Wickham succeeded him. In the stone fence there
+were places where the stones had fallen or had been thrown down, making
+openings through which horses could pass one, or at most two, at a time.
+The Union cavalrymen made for these openings, not halting or hesitating
+for an instant. The fence was taken and breaking through they put to
+flight the confederate cavalrymen who did not stop until they found
+refuge behind their infantry lines.
+
+The union line was broken up too. The country for a mile was full of
+charging columns--regiments, troops, squads--the pursuit taking them in
+every direction where a mounted enemy could be seen. The cavalry
+disposed of, the infantry was next taken in hand. Early's lieutenants,
+finding their flank turned, changed front and tried hard to stem the
+tide of defeat. The brigade became badly scattered. Custer with a
+portion of it charged right up to a confederate battery, but failed to
+get it, not having force enough at that point. The portion of the
+command with which I found myself followed Lee's cavalry for a long
+distance when, reaching the top of a slope over which they had gone in
+their retreat, we found ourselves face to face with a strong line of
+infantry which had changed front to receive us, and gave us a volley
+that filled the air with a swarm of bullets. This stopped the onset for
+the time, in that part of the field, and the cavalry fell back behind
+the crest of the hill to reform and, to tell the truth, to get under
+cover, for the infantry fire was exceedingly hot. They were firing at
+just the right elevation to catch the horses, and there was danger that
+our cavalrymen would find themselves dismounted, through having their
+mounts killed.
+
+As my horse swerved to the left, a bullet struck my right thigh and,
+peeling the skin off that, cut a deep gash through the saddle to the
+opening in the center. The saddle caused it to deflect upwards, or it
+would have gone through the other leg. At the moment I supposed it had
+gone through the right leg. Meeting General Custer I told him with some
+pride that I was wounded and needed a surgeon. Not finding one I
+investigated for myself and found that it was one of those narrow
+escapes which a pious man might set down to the credit of providence or
+a miracle. The wound was not serious and I proceeded to assist in
+rallying as many men of the regiment as possible to report to General
+Custer who was preparing for what proved to be the final charge of the
+battle. This was made upon a brigade of infantry which was still
+gallantly trying to make a stand toward Winchester and in front of a
+large stone house. The ground descended from Custer's position to that
+occupied by this infantry. Custer formed his men in line and, at the
+moment when the enemy began a movement to the rear, charged down upon
+them with a yell that could be heard above the din of the battle. In a
+brief time he was in their midst. They threw down their arms and
+surrendered. Several hundred of them had retreated to the inside of the
+stone house. The house was surrounded and they were all made prisoners.
+
+This charge, in which the Michigan brigade captured more prisoners than
+it had men engaged, was for perhaps an eighth of a mile within range of
+the batteries on the heights around Winchester, and until it became
+dangerous to their own men, the artillery enfiladed our line.
+
+A fragment of one of those shells struck my horse, "Billy," in the nose,
+taking out a chunk the size of my fist and he carried the scar till the
+day of his death (in 1888). This last charge finished the battle. Early
+retreated through Winchester up the valley and nothing was left but to
+pursue. Sheridan broke Early's left flank by the movement of the cavalry
+from his own right. It was the first time that proper use of this arm
+had been made in a great battle during the war. He was the only general
+of that war who knew how to make cavalry and infantry supplement each
+other in battle. Had the tactics of the battle been reversed,--that is
+to say, if Sheridan had moved against Early's right flank instead of his
+left,--nothing could have prevented the capture or destruction of
+Early's army, as his retreat would have been cut off. But the way to the
+south was left open, and Early escaped once more to Fisher's Hill, where
+he was found the next day with the remnant--a very respectable
+remnant--of his army.
+
+It may be of interest to some of my medical friends to remark here in
+passing, that the battle of Winchester cured my jaundice. After crossing
+the Opequon I began to be ravenously hungry, and begged and ate hardtack
+until there was some danger that the supply would be exhausted. The men
+soon saw the situation and when one saw me approaching he would "present
+hardtack" without awaiting the order. So I went into the mounted part of
+the engagement with a full stomach and in more ways than one with a
+"better stomach for a fight."
+
+I regret that it is impossible to give a complete list of casualties in
+the brigade. In the appendix to this volume may be found a roll of honor
+of all those who were either killed or died of wounds received in
+battle.
+
+[Illustration: MELVIN BREWER]
+
+Of the officers, Lieutenant Colonel Melvin Brewer was mortally wounded.
+The bullet which killed him coming from the stone house in which the
+confederates had taken refuge. Colonel Brewer went out in the First, of
+which regiment he had risen to be a major. With that rank he was
+assigned to command the Seventh and only in the previous June had been
+promoted to lieutenant colonel. He was an officer modest as he was
+brave; cool and reliable on all occasions. Lieutenant Albert T. Jackson,
+of the First, killed early in the action, was a young officer of much
+promise. Captain William O. North of the Fifth, who lost his life in the
+melee near Winchester, was also a most excellent officer. Captain A.S.
+Matthews, of the First was wounded. The casualties on the whole were not
+so numerous as in some other less historic engagements, most of them
+befalling in the attacks on infantry, early and late in the day.
+Breckinridge's infantry seems to have fired low when resisting the
+mounted cavalry, for the havoc among horses was very great. I find by my
+official report made to the adjutant general at the time, that seven
+officers in the Sixth alone had their horses shot, and there is no
+reason to suppose that this record exceeded that of the other regiments.
+
+For the next three days, the brigade was in front of infantry at
+Fisher's Hill, so close to their lines as to draw their fire and keep
+them in their intrenchments.
+
+On the 22nd, Torbert was sent to Milford in the Luray Valley, taking
+Wilson's and Merritt's divisions. His orders were to break through one
+of the passes in the Massanutten mountains and come out in rear of
+Early's army when Crook's flanking movement on the other side would have
+driven the confederates out of the strong position at Fisher's Hill.
+Crook's attack was completely successful and Early was soon "whirling up
+the valley" again. Torbert made a fiasco of it. He allowed Wickham, who
+succeeded Fitzhugh Lee after the latter was wounded, with, at most, two
+small brigades, to hold him at bay and withdrew without making any fight
+to speak of. I remember very well how the Michigan brigade lay in a safe
+position in rear of the line listening to the firing and was not ordered
+in at all. If Custer or Merritt had been in command it would have been
+different. When Sheridan found that Torbert had retreated, he gave him a
+very peremptory order to retrace his steps and try again. Custer,
+followed by Lowell, was sent to the front and in the forenoon of the
+24th Wickham's troopers were scattered in flight and the way opened for
+Torbert to carry out his instructions. Even then the march was
+leisurely, and the two big divisions arrived in Newmarket on the 25th
+only to find that it was too late. Early had escaped again.
+
+On the 26th at Harrisonburg, Custer assumed command of the Second
+division in place of Averell and I succeeded to the command of the
+brigade.
+
+On the same day, the brigade was ordered to Port Republic and seeing a
+wagon train on the other side, the Sixth and Seventh were sent across
+the south fork of the Shenandoah river to attack it. It turned out to
+be Kershaw's division, which had been shuttle-cocked back and forth
+between Lee's army and the valley all summer and which, once more on the
+wing to reinforce Early, was just coming from Swift Run Gap. The two
+regiments were driven back, but retired in good order and recrossed the
+river. Sheridan then withdrew to Cross Keys, hoping to lure Early to
+that point, but was unsuccessful. The next day Port Republic was
+reoccupied and the brigade established a picket line extended thence to
+Conrad's Ferry, a distance of twenty miles.
+
+While occupying this position, the discovery was made that there were
+several good grist-mills along the river that were also well stored with
+grist. There were plenty of men in the brigade who were practical
+millers, and putting them in charge, I had all the mills running very
+early in the morning, grinding flour and meal which the commissaries
+were proceeding to issue to the several regiments, according to their
+needs, and we all flattered ourselves that we were doing a fine stroke
+of business. This complacent state of mind was rudely disturbed when,
+about seven o'clock (the mills had been running some two hours, or more)
+General Merritt accompanied by his staff, dashed up and, in an angry
+mood which he did not attempt to conceal, began to reprimand me because
+the mills had not been set on fire.
+
+The fiat had gone forth from General Grant himself, that everything in
+the valley that might contribute to the support of the army must be
+destroyed before the country was abandoned. Sheridan had already decided
+on another retrograde movement down the valley and it was his purpose to
+leave a trail of fire behind, obeying to the letter the injunction of
+the general in chief to starve out any crow that would hereafter have
+the temerity to fly over the Shenandoah valley. The order had gone out
+the day before and the work was to begin that morning. Custer was to
+take the west and Merritt the east side and burn all barns, mills,
+haystacks, etc., within a certain area. Merritt was provoked. He pointed
+to the west and one could have made a chart of Custer's trail by the
+columns of black smoke which marked it. The general was manifestly
+fretting lest Custer should appear to outdo him in zeal in obeying
+orders, and blamed me as his responsible subordinate, for the delay. I
+told him, with an appearance of humility that I am sure was unfeigned,
+that those mills would never grind again, after what had passed.
+
+The wheels were not stopped but the torch was applied and the crackling
+of flames intermingled with the rumbling of the stones made a mournful
+requiem as the old mills went up in smoke and General Merritt's loyalty
+was vindicated.
+
+It was a disagreeable business and--we can be frank now--I did not
+relish it. One incident made a lasting impression on the mind of every
+man who was there. The mill in the little hamlet of Port Republic
+contained the means of livelihood--the food of the women and children
+whom the exigencies of war had bereft of their natural providers and,
+when they found that it was the intention to destroy that on which their
+very existence seemed to depend, their appeals to be permitted to have
+some of the flour before the mill was burned, were heartrending. Worse
+than all else, in spite of the most urgent precautions, enjoined upon
+the officers in charge, the flames extended. The mill stood in the midst
+of a group of wooden houses and some of them took fire. Seeing the
+danger, I rode across and ordered every man to fall in and assist in
+preventing the further spread of the flames, an effort which was,
+happily, successful. What I saw there is burned into my memory. Women
+with children in their arms, stood in the street and gazed frantically
+upon the threatened ruin of their homes, while the tears rained down
+their cheeks. The anguish pictured in their faces would have melted any
+heart not seared by the horrors and "necessities" of war. It was too
+much for me and at the first moment that duty would permit, I hurried
+away from the scene. General Merritt did not see these things, nor did
+General Sheridan, much less General Grant.
+
+The army began to fall back on the 6th of October, the cavalry bringing
+up the rear, as usual, Merritt on the valley pike, Custer by the back
+road, along the east slope of the Little North mountain. The work of
+incineration was continued and clouds of smoke marked the passage of
+the federal army. Lomax with one division of cavalry followed Merritt,
+while Rosser with two brigades took up the pursuit of Custer on the back
+road. The pursuit was rather tame for a couple of days but the sight of
+the destruction going on must have exasperated the confederate troopers,
+many of whom were on their native heath, and put them in a fighting
+mood, for on the 8th they began to grow aggressive and worried the life
+out of our rear guard. The Michigan brigade had the rear. The Seventh
+was sent ahead to see that nothing escaped that came within the scope of
+Grant's order; the Fifth acted as rear guard; the First and Sixth in
+position to support the Fifth if needed. The pike formed the main street
+of the little town of Woodstock, the houses coming close to it on either
+side. On nearing that place, it was found that a fire started in some
+small barns and haystacks in the outskirts, had caught in the adjoining
+buildings and the town was in flames. Dismounting the two regiments, and
+sending the lead horses beyond the village, orders were given to have
+the fires put out. The men went to work with a will, but were
+interrupted in their laudable purpose by Lomax, who charged the rear
+guard into the town, and there was some lively hustling to get to the
+horses in time. The brigade was then formed in line in a good position
+facing Woodstock and awaited, indeed invited attack by the confederates.
+Lomax, however, kept at a respectful distance until the march was
+resumed, when he took up the pursuit again. Thus it went, alternately
+halting, forming and facing to the rear, and falling back, until Tom's
+Brook was reached late in the afternoon. Then General Merritt directed
+me to send one regiment to reinforce Custer, who was being hard pressed
+by Rosser on the back road, and take the others and drive Lomax back.
+The Seventh was sent to Custer and the First, Fifth and Sixth, the Sixth
+leading, drove the cavalry that had been annoying our rear at a jump
+back to Woodstock, a distance of about six miles. By that time, Lomax
+had his entire division up and when we started to fall back again, gave
+us a Roland for our Oliver, following sharply, but always declining the
+invitation to come on, when we halted and faced him. It was particularly
+annoying to the Fifth which brought up the rear and distinguished itself
+greatly by the stubborn resistance which it offered to the attacks of
+the enemy. Captain Shier's squadron of the First, supported the Fifth
+with much spirit.
+
+On the morning of the 9th, Sheridan told Torbert to go out and whip the
+cavalry that was following us or get whipped himself. It was a short job
+and the battle of Tom's Brook is regarded as one of the humorous
+incidents of the war. With slight loss, in a very brief engagement,
+Rosser and Lomax were both routed and the pursuit of the latter on the
+pike was continued for about twenty miles. The battle known in history
+as that of "Tom's Brook," was facetiously christened "The Woodstock
+Races," and the confederate cavalry cut little figure in Virginia
+afterwards. The Michigan brigade had a prominent part in the battle,
+being in the center and forming the connecting link between the First
+and Third divisions. In the opening attack the confederate center was
+pierced by the mounted charge of the Fifth, Sixth and Seventh Michigan,
+assisted by the Twenty-fifth New York. The First being on picket during
+the previous night had not returned to the command. I believe I am right
+in claiming that the first impression made on the enemy's line of battle
+was by these regiments, though the line was rather thin, for the reason
+that the heaviest part of Rosser's force had been massed in front of
+Custer and on the pike, making the center an especially vulnerable
+point. When the flight began, they took to the roads, and the Michigan
+men being in the woods did not get very far into the "horse race," as it
+was called. The First, coming from the picket line, trailed the leaders
+along the pike and managed to get a good deal of sport out of it with
+very little danger.
+
+I must now pass over the few intervening days to the crowning glory of
+the campaign, The Battle of Cedar Creek.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII
+
+THE BATTLE OF CEDAR CREEK
+
+
+The engagement which took place in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, on
+the nineteenth day of October, 1864, will take its place high up in the
+list of the decisive battles of history. Like Blenheim and Balaklava,
+Cedar Creek will be remembered while literature lasts. One of its
+dramatic incidents furnished the theme for the poet's song, and
+"Sheridan's Ride," like Horatius, will remain until the imagination can
+no longer be thrilled by the recital of the record of heroic deeds. Thus
+doth poesy erect monuments, more enduring than bronze or marble, to the
+memory of the brave.
+
+Yet, the events of that day have been greatly misconceived.[37] The
+imagination, inflamed by the heroic verse of Read, and unaided by the
+remembrance of actual personal experiences in the battle, sees only the
+salient points--Gordon's stealthy march along the Massanutten mountain;
+the union troops, in fancied security, sleeping in their tents; the
+absence of their great leader; the morning surprise; the rout; the mass
+of fleeing fugitives; the victors in exultant pursuit; Sheridan's ride
+from Winchester; the magic influence of his arrival on the field, in
+arresting the headlong flight of the panic stricken mob; the rally; the
+reflux tide of enthusiasm; the charge back into the old camps; the
+glorious victory that succeeded humiliating defeat.
+
+With all due allowance for poetical license, the conception of this
+battle which long ago became fixed in the public mind, does a cruel
+injustice to the gallant men who were maimed or killed on that hard
+fought field. Enveloped in the mists of receding years; obscured by the
+glamour of poetry; belied by the vivid imagination of stragglers and
+camp-followers who, on the first note of danger, made a frantic rush for
+Winchester, seeking to palliate their own misconduct by spreading
+exaggerated reports of disaster, the union army that confronted Early at
+Cedar Creek, for many years made a sorry picture, which the aureole of
+glory that surrounded its central figure made all the more humiliating.
+
+It is due to truth and justice that every detail of that famous fight
+should be told, to the end that no undeserved shadow may rest upon the
+fame of the men and officers who took part in it--no unjust stain upon
+their record.
+
+History, so called, has been misleading. It is true that Sheridan's
+narrative sheds much new light upon his part in the battle, and General
+Merritt, one of the leading actors, wrote a paper upon it for the
+Century series though I doubt if it has been generally read, or if
+read, effective in modifying preconceived notions. An idea of that which
+has been written in the name of history may be gained from an extract
+taken from the American cyclopedia (vol. xvi) which says:
+
+   "He (Sheridan) met the fugitives a mile and a half from town,
+   (Winchester), and with a brigade which had been left in Winchester,
+   moved upon the enemy, who had begun to intrench themselves."
+
+The absurdity of such "history" ought to be self evident. Imagine, if
+you can, a brigade of infantry following Sheridan on his wild ride of
+"twenty miles" and then rushing to attack an army which, according to
+the tradition of which I have spoken, had just whipped four army corps.
+Of course, the statement is an absurd one. No brigade came from
+Winchester. No brigade could have come from Winchester; and had such a
+thing been possible, it would have constituted but a slight factor in
+the contest.
+
+There were in the federal army on that eventful morning, seven brigades
+of infantry (the Sixth corps) seven brigades of cavalry, not to mention
+one division (Grover's) of the Nineteenth corps, (four brigades), making
+eighteen brigades in all, that were neither surprised in their camps,
+nor in the slightest degree demoralized at any time during the progress
+of the battle; and which had forced Early to stop short in his headlong
+career of victory long before the famous black charger brought his fiery
+rider to the field. The Eighth corps which was surprised was a small
+corps of only five brigades, and although after Kershaw's onset,
+conducted by General Early in person, it was practically eliminated,
+there was a fine army left which, crippled as it was, was fully equal to
+the task of retrieving the disaster, and which, as the event proved,
+needed only the guiding hand of Sheridan to put it in motion and lead it
+to victory.
+
+It is not, however, the purpose of this paper to give all the details of
+that great battle, but to narrate what a single actor in it saw; to make
+a note in passing of some things that do not appear in the official
+records, that are not a part of the written history of the war; some
+incidents that are important only as they throw light on that which is
+bathed in shadow, though having for one of Custer's troopers an interest
+in themselves; to do justice to the splendid courage displayed by the
+cavalry, especially the Michigan cavalry, on that occasion; to pay a
+tribute of admiration to the gallantry and steadfastness of the old
+Sixth corps; and to the courage and capacity of the gallant Colonel
+Lowell, who was killed.
+
+Cedar Creek is a small stream that rises in the Blue Ridge, runs across
+the valley, at that point but four miles wide, and pours its waters into
+the Shenandoah near Strasburg. It is very crooked, fordable, but with
+steep banks difficult for artillery or wagons, except where a way has
+been carved out at the fords. It runs in a southeasterly course, so that
+its mouth is four miles or more south of a line drawn due east from the
+point where it deserts the foot-hills on the west side of the valley.
+The valley, itself, is shut in between the Blue mountains, on one side,
+and the Massanutten, a spur of the Great North mountain, on the other.
+It is traversed, from north to south, by a turnpike road, a little to
+the left of the center, which road crosses Cedar Creek between
+Middletown and Strasburg.
+
+On the night of October 18, 1864, the federal army was encamped on the
+left bank of Cedar Creek, Crook's Eighth corps on the left flank, east
+of the pike and nearly in front of Middletown; Emory's Nineteenth corps
+to the right and rear of Crook and west of the pike; then, successively,
+each farther to the right and rear, the Sixth corps, temporarily
+commanded by General James B. Ricketts; Devin's and Lowell's brigades of
+Merritt's (First) cavalry division; the Michigan cavalry brigade; and
+last, but not least, Custer with the Third cavalry division. All faced
+toward the south, though posted en echelon, so that, though Crook was
+some three or four miles south of Middletown, a line drawn due east from
+Custer's camp, intersected the pike a little north of that place. For
+this reason, Early's flanking movement, being from the left through the
+camp of Crook, could not strike the flank of the other corps,
+successively, without shifting the line of attack to the north, while
+the Sixth corps and the cavalry were able to confront his troops, after
+their first partial success, by simply moving to the left, taking the
+most direct route to the turnpike. The position which the Michigan
+cavalry occupied was somewhat isolated. Although belonging to the First
+division, it was posted nearer the camp of the Third.
+
+The brigade consisted of the four Michigan regiments and Captain
+Martin's Sixth New York independent horse battery. The First Michigan
+was commanded by Major A.W. Duggan, a gallant officer who was wounded at
+Gettysburg; the Fifth by Major S.H. Hastings; the Sixth by Major Charles
+W. Deane; the Seventh by Lieutenant Colonel George G. Briggs, the latter
+officer having only just been promoted to that position. The New York
+battery had been with us but a short time, but Captain Martin and his
+lieutenants ranked among the best artillery officers in the service.
+
+For a few days, only, I had been in command of the brigade. General
+Custer, who had led it from the time he was made a brigadier, in June,
+1863, was promoted to the command of the Third division and, hastily
+summoning me, went away, taking his staff and colors with him. I was
+obliged while yet on the march, to form a staff of officers as
+inexperienced as myself. It was an unsought and an unwelcome
+responsibility.
+
+For two or three days before the battle, our duty had been to guard a
+ford of Cedar Creek. One regiment was kept constantly on duty near the
+ford. The line of videttes was thrown out across the stream, connecting
+on the left with the infantry picket line and on the right with Custer's
+cavalry pickets. The Seventh Michigan was on duty the night of October
+18, the brigade camp back about a mile from the ford.
+
+No intimation of expected danger had been received--no injunction to be
+more than usually alert. It was the habit of the cavalry, which had so
+much outpost duty to perform, to be always ready, and cavalry officers
+were rarely taken by surprise. Early's precautions had been carefully
+taken and no hint of his purpose reached the union headquarters, and no
+warning of any immediate or more than usually pressing danger was given
+to the army.
+
+But, somehow, I had a vague feeling of uneasiness, that would not be
+shaken off. I believe now and have believed, for many years, that there
+was in my mind a distinct presentiment of the coming storm. I could not
+sleep and at eleven o'clock, was still walking about outside the tents.
+
+It was a perfect night, bright and clear. The moon was full, the air
+crisp and transparent. A more serene and peaceful scene could not be
+imagined. The spirit of tranquility seemed to have settled down, at
+last, upon the troubled Shenandoah. Far away, to the left, lay the army,
+wrapped in slumber. To the right, the outlines of the Blue mountains
+stood out against the sky and cast dark shadows athwart the valley.
+Three-quarters of a mile away the white tents of Custer's camp looked
+like weird specters in the moonlight. Scarcely a sound was heard. A
+solemn stillness reigned, broken only by the tread of the single sentry,
+pacing his beat in front of headquarters. Inside, the staff and brigade
+escort were sleeping. Finally, a little before midnight, I turned in,
+telling the guard to awaken me at once, should there be firing in front,
+and to so instruct the relief.
+
+I cannot give the exact time; it may be I did not know it at the time;
+but it was before daylight that the sentinel awoke me. Not having
+undressed, I was out in an instant, and listening, heard scattering
+shots. They were not many, but enough to impel me to a quick resolve.
+Rousing the nearest staff officer, I bade him have the command ready to
+move at a moment's notice.
+
+In an incredibly short space of time, the order was executed. The tents
+were struck, the artillery horses attached to the gun carriages and
+caissons, and the cavalry horses saddled. No bugle call was sounded. The
+firing grew heavier, and from the hill where Custer was, rang out on the
+air the shrill notes of Foght's bugle, telling us that our old commander
+had taken the alarm. Rosser had attacked the pickets at the fords and
+was driving them in. He had done the same on one or two mornings before,
+but there was an unwonted vigor about this attack that boded mischief.
+The federal cavalry had, however, recovered from their earlier habit of
+being "away from home" when Rosser called. They were always "in" and
+ready and willing to give him a warm reception. He found that morning
+that both Merritt and Custer were "at home." In a moment, a staff
+officer from General Merritt dashed up with orders to take the entire
+brigade to the support of the picket line. Moving out rapidly, we were
+soon on the ground. The Seventh Michigan had made a gallant stand alone,
+and when the brigade arrived, the enemy did not see fit to press the
+attack, but contented himself with throwing a few shells from the
+opposite bank which annoyed us so little that Martin did not unlimber
+his guns.
+
+[Illustration: CHARLES R. LOWELL]
+
+A heavy fog had by this time settled down upon the valley. The first
+streaks of dawn began to appear, and it soon became evident that the
+cavalry attack upon the right flank was but a feint and that the real
+danger was in another quarter. Far away to the left, for some time,
+volleys of musketry had been heard. With the roll of musketry was
+intermingled, at intervals, the boom of cannon, telling to the practiced
+ear, the story of a general engagement. The sounds increased in volume
+and in violence, and it was no difficult matter to see that the union
+forces were falling back for, farther and farther to the left and rear,
+were heard the ominous sounds. From the position we occupied no infantry
+line of battle was to be seen.
+
+Soon after the Michigan brigade had taken its position at the front,
+Colonel Charles R. Lowell rode up at the head of the Reserve brigade.
+Colonel Lowell was a young man, not much past his majority, and looked
+like a boy. He was a relative of James Russell Lowell, and had won
+distinction as colonel of the Second Massachusetts cavalry. He had
+succeeded Merritt as commander of the Reserve brigade. He had a frank,
+open face, a manly, soldierly bearing, and a courage that was never
+called in question. He was a graduate of Harvard, not of West Point,
+though he had been a captain in the Sixth United States cavalry.
+
+Colonel Lowell informed me that his orders were to support the Michigan
+men if they needed support. No help was needed at that time. I told him
+so. The enemy had been easily checked and, at the moment, had become so
+quiet as to give rise to the suspicion that he had withdrawn from our
+front, as indeed he had. A great battle was raging to the left, and in
+response to the suggestion that the army seemed to be retreating, he
+replied:
+
+"I think so," and after a few moments reflection, said:
+
+"I shall return" and immediately began the countermarch.
+
+I said to him: "Colonel, what would you do if you were in my place?"
+
+"I think you ought to go too" he replied and, presently, turning in his
+saddle, continued: "Yes, I will take the responsibility to give you the
+order," whereat, the two brigades took up the march toward the point
+where the battle, judging from the sound, seemed to be in progress. How
+little either of us realized that Lowell was marching to his death. It
+was into the thickest of the fight that he led the way, Michigan
+willingly following.[38]
+
+A startling sight presented itself as the long cavalry column came out
+into the open country overlooking the battle-ground. Guided by the
+sound, a direction had been taken that would bring us to the pike as
+directly as possible and at the same time approach the union lines from
+the rear. This brought us out on a commanding ridge north of Middletown.
+This ridge as it appears to a participant looking at it from memory,
+runs to and across the pike. The ground descends to the south a half
+mile, or more, then gradually rises again to another ridge about on a
+line with Middletown. The confederate forces were on the last named
+ridge, along which their batteries were planted, and their lines of
+infantry could be seen distinctly. Memory may have lost something of the
+details of the picture, but the outlines remain as vivid, now as then.
+The valley between was uneven, with spots of timber here and there and
+broken into patches by fences, some of them of stone.
+
+The full scope of the calamity which had befallen our arms burst
+suddenly into view. The whole battle field was in sight. The valley and
+intervening slopes, the fields and woods, were alive with infantry,
+moving singly and in squads. Some entire regiments were hurrying to the
+rear, while the confederate artillery was raining shot and shell and
+spherical case among them to accelerate their speed. Some of the enemy's
+batteries were the very ones just captured from us. It did not look like
+a frightened or panic stricken army, but like a disorganized mass that
+had simply lost the power of cohesion. A line of cavalry skirmishers[39]
+formed across the country was making ineffectual efforts to stop the
+stream of fugitives who had stolidly and stubbornly set their faces to
+the rear. Dazed by the surprise in their camps, they acted like men who
+had forfeited their self-respect. They were chagrined, mortified, mad at
+their officers and themselves--demoralized; but, after all, more to be
+pitied than blamed.
+
+But all these thousands, hurrying from the field, were not the entire
+army. They were the Eighth corps and a part of the Nineteenth only, a
+fraction of the army. There, between ourselves and the enemy--between
+the fugitives and the enemy--was a long line of blue, facing to the
+front, bravely battling to stem the tide of defeat. How grandly they
+stood to their work. Neither shot nor shell nor volleys of musketry
+could break them. It was the old Sixth corps--the "ironsides" from the
+Potomac army, who learned how to fight under brave John Sedgwick.
+Slowly, in perfect order, the veterans of the Wilderness and
+Spottsylvania were falling back, contesting every inch of the way. One
+position was surrendered only to take another. There was no wavering, no
+falling out of ranks, except of those who were shot down. The next
+morning, one passing over the ground where those heroes fought, could
+see where they successively stood and breasted the storm by the dead men
+who lay in line where they had fallen. There were two or three lines of
+these dead skirmishers. The official record shows that the Sixth corps
+on that day lost 255 men killed and 1600 wounded.
+
+The two brigades had reached a point where the entire field was in view,
+and were in position to resume their relation to the line of battle,
+whenever the scattered fragments of the army could be assembled and
+formed for an organized resistance to the enemy.
+
+In the meantime it had been decided to mass all the cavalry on the left
+of the line, opposite to where it had been in the morning. The order
+came from General Merritt to continue the march in that direction, and
+the long column led by Lowell turned its head toward the left of the
+Sixth corps[40] and formed on the other side of the pike. Moving
+across, parallel with the line which had been taken up by that corps,
+the cavalry was exposed to a galling fire of artillery. One shell took
+an entire set of fours out of the Sixth Michigan. Not a man left the
+ranks. The next set closed up the gap. Custer was already there, having
+been transferred from right to left while the two brigades of the First
+division were out on the picket line. Crossing the pike, we passed in
+front of his division. It was formed in line of brigades, each brigade
+in column of regiments, mounted. It is needless to say that they were
+faced toward the enemy. Custer, himself, was riding along the front of
+his command, chafing like a caged lion, eager for the fray. Devin, with
+Taylor's battery had been there for some time and, under the personal
+direction of General Merritt, had been most gallantly resisting the
+advance of the victorious enemy. The Michigan brigade took position in
+front of Custer, Martin's battery next the pike. Lowell with the Reserve
+brigade was stationed still farther in advance toward Middletown. The
+Sixth corps made its final stand on the prolongation of the cavalry
+alignment and from that moment the attacks of the enemy were feeble and
+ineffective, the battle resolving itself, for the time being, into an
+artillery duel in which Martin's battery took a prominent part.
+
+It could not have been much later than nine o'clock when the two
+brigades of cavalry arrived. Their coming was opportune. Who can say how
+much it had to do in stopping the further progress of Early's attack?
+It is now known that Early dreaded a flanking movement by the body of
+horse which he saw massing in front of his right flank. The gallant
+Lowell, who so bravely did his duty and who exhibited in every stage of
+the battle the highest qualities of leadership, a few hours after his
+arrival on the left laid down his life for the cause he so valiantly
+served. He was killed by a bullet from the gun of a sharpshooter in
+Middletown. He did not live to make a report and the story never has
+been told officially of how he marched from right to left at Cedar
+Creek.
+
+Sheridan had not yet come up, but after his arrival, which he states in
+his memoirs was not later than ten o'clock, Custer was moved to the
+right flank, arriving in time to thwart a threatened flanking movement
+by Gordon and Kershaw. It is evident that every strategic attempt of the
+enemy, save the morning surprise, was checkmated by the union cavalry
+and, it must be remembered, that it was the absence of cavalry on the
+left which rendered the morning surprise possible.
+
+The First division was now all together with General Merritt personally
+in command. A part of Lowell's brigade, dismounted, was posted well to
+the front, the Michigan brigade, mounted, in its rear. While in this
+position, having occasion to ride up into the battery to speak to
+Captain Martin, a sharpshooter in Middletown took a shot at us. The
+bullet narrowly missed the captain and buried itself in my horse's
+shoulder. Unlike the shell at Winchester, this wound disabled the old
+fellow, so that he had to go to the rear and give way to a temporary
+remount,--furnished by the commanding officer of the First
+Michigan,--much to the regret of the old hero, for he was a horse who
+loved the excitement of battle and relished its dangers.
+
+Thus, for perhaps an hour (it may have been more) we stood in line
+inviting attack. But the enemy, strongly posted behind fences and piles
+of logs, with two ravines and fences separating us, seemed anxious to
+"let well enough alone." Then Merritt rearranged his line. Devin's
+brigade was posted next the pike, Lowell in the center, the Michigan
+brigade on the extreme left. Martin's battery took position in an
+orchard, on a rising point, which commanded the entire front and sloped
+off to the rear, so that only the muzzles of the pieces were exposed to
+the enemy's fire. Directly in front was a section of a battery which
+Martin several times silenced but which had an aggravating way of coming
+into action again and making it extremely uncomfortable for us. The
+First, Sixth and Seventh were formed in line of squadron columns, the
+Fifth a little to the rear as a reserve and support. A strong line of
+mounted skirmishers held the front. The left was thrown somewhat
+forward, menacing the confederate right.
+
+Soon after the formation was complete and probably not far from eleven
+o'clock, General Merritt with his staff came along inspecting the line,
+and halting near Martin's battery, he expressed the most hearty approval
+of the dispositions that had been made. While he was still talking, a
+round shot from one of the enemy's guns ricochetted and nearly struck
+his horse. He was very cool and gave his view of the situation in a few
+encouraging words.
+
+"The enemy," said he, "is almost as much surprised as we are and does
+not know what to make of his morning's work and in my opinion, does not
+intend to press his advantage, but will retreat as soon as a vigorous
+assault is made upon his line."
+
+These are, I am sure, almost the precise words uttered to me by General
+Merritt before Sheridan came up. At least, if he was with the army at
+the time, certainly General Merritt did not know it. They show what was
+the feeling in that portion of the army which was not surprised, and
+which did not fail, from the moment when the first shot was fired in the
+early morning, to the last charge at dusk, to keep its face to the foe.
+General Merritt also suggested, though he did not order it, that I send
+a regiment to feel of the confederate right flank. He had an impression
+that it might be turned. The Seventh Michigan was sent with instructions
+to pass by the rear to the left, thence to the front, and attempt to get
+beyond the flank of the enemy, and, if successful, to attack. After an
+absence of about an hour, it returned and the commanding officer
+reported that he found a line of infantry as far as he deemed it
+prudent to go. The force in front of the cavalry was Wharton's
+(Breckinridge's) corps, reinforced by one brigade of Kershaw's division.
+Early's fear of being flanked by the union cavalry caused him to
+strengthen and prolong his right. Rosser's cavalry, for some reason, did
+not put in an appearance after the dash in the morning.
+
+There was a lull. After the lapse of so many years, it would be idle to
+try to recall the hours, where they went and how they sped. There was no
+thought of retreat, slight fear of being attacked. All were wondering
+what would be done, when cheering and a great commotion arose toward the
+right. "Sheridan has come; Sheridan has come; and there is to be an
+advance all along the line," sped from right to left, as if an electric
+battery had sent the message, so quickly did it fly.
+
+Sheridan did not pass to the left of the pike where the cavalry was, but
+dashed along in front of the infantry for the purpose of letting the
+army know that he was there and give it the inspiration of his presence.
+History puts in his mouth the words: "It is all right, boys; we will
+whip them yet; we will sleep in our old camps tonight." I was not near
+enough to hear and do not pretend to quote from personal knowledge, but
+whatever may have been his exact words, the enthusiasm which they
+aroused was unmistakable. The answer was a shout that sent a thrill
+across the valley and whose ominous meaning must have filled the hearts
+of the confederates with misgivings. This was the first intimation we
+had that Sheridan was on the ground, though he says in his memoirs, that
+it was then after midday and that he had been up about two hours.
+
+But the Sixth corps needed no encouragement. Nobly had it done its duty
+during the entire progress of the battle. Sheridan and his staff,
+therefore, busied themselves reforming and posting the Nineteenth corps
+and strengthening the right where Custer was to be given the post of
+honor in the grand flanking movement about to begin.
+
+An ominous silence succeeded. Even the batteries were still. It was the
+calm that precedes the storm. To those on the left, it seemed that the
+dispositions were a long time in making. When one has his courage
+screwed to the sticking point, the more quickly he can plunge in and
+have it over the better. The suspense was terrible.
+
+The Michigan brigade had ample time to survey the field in its front.
+First, the ground descended abruptly into a broad ravine, or depression,
+through which ran a small creek. Beyond the top of the opposite ascent
+was a wide plateau of rather level ground, then another ravine and a dry
+ditch; then a rise and another depression, from which the ground sloped
+up to a belt of timber stretching clear across the front, almost to the
+pike. In the edge of the timber was the enemy's main line of battle,
+behind piles of rails and logs. Half way down the slope was a strong
+skirmish line along a rail fence. Behind the fence, on a knoll, was the
+battery, which had annoyed us so much. The brigade was formed with the
+First Michigan on the right, the Seventh on the left, the Sixth and
+Fifth in the center, in the order named. Each regiment was in column of
+battalions, making three lines of two ranks each. Martin's battery was
+to continue firing until the cavalry came into the line of fire.
+
+At length, the expected order came. The bugles sounded, "Forward."
+Simultaneously, from the right to the left the movement began. At first,
+slowly, then faster. It was a glorious sight to see that magnificent
+line sweeping onward in the charge. Far, far away to the right it was
+visible. There were no reserves, no plans for retreat, only one grand,
+absorbing thought--to drive them back and retake the camps. Heavens,
+what a din! All along the confederate line, the cannon volleyed and
+thundered. The union artillery replied. The roll of musketry became
+incessant. The cavalry crossed the first ravine and moving over the
+level plateau, came into a raking fire of artillery and musketry.
+Pressing on, they crossed the second ravine and ditch. The slope was
+reached and, charging up to the rail fence, the first line of hostile
+infantry fell back. But the cavalry had gone too fast for the infantry.
+Sheridan says faster than he intended, for his intention was to swing
+his right wing and drive the enemy across the pike into the arms of the
+left wing on the east side; the too swift advance of the First cavalry
+division frustrated the plan. The brigade next to the pike, exposed to a
+galling crossfire, wavered and slowly retired. The entire line then gave
+way and retreated rapidly, but in good order, to the first ravine, where
+it halted and reformed. In a short time the charge was again sounded.
+This time the fence was reached. The right of the Sixth Michigan was
+directly in front of the battery, as was also the First Michigan.
+General Merritt, who was riding by the side of Major Deane, said:
+"Major, we want those guns." "All right, we will get them," gallantly
+responded the major, and through and over the fence rode the brave
+cavalrymen. The First Michigan made a dash for the battery, but it was
+not ours this time for, seeing that the Sixth corps had received a
+temporary check, the cavalry once more fell back to the nearest ravine,
+and whirling into line, without orders, was ready instantly for the last
+supreme effort, which was not long delayed. The charge was sounded. The
+infantry responded with a shout. This time the cavalry pressed right on
+up the slope. The enemy did not stand to meet the determined assault but
+gave way in disorder. The line pushed into the woods and then it was
+every regiment for itself. The First, under Major Duggan, charged toward
+the pike, but Devin, being nearer reached the bridge first. The Seventh,
+under Lieutenant Colonel Briggs, charging through a field, captured,
+seemingly, more prisoners than it had men. The Sixth, under Major
+Deane, who knew the country well, did not pause until it reached
+Buckton's Ford, on the Shenandoah river, returning late at night with
+many prisoners and a battle flag for which Private Ulric Crocker, of
+Troop "M," received one of the medals awarded by act of congress. The
+Fifth, under Major Hastings, charged down a road leading to one of the
+fords of the Shenandoah, Major Philip Mothersill, with one battalion,
+going so far that he did not rejoin the command till the next day.[41]
+
+Thus ended the battle of Cedar Creek. Darkness, alone, saved Early's
+army from capture. As it was, most of his artillery and wagons were
+taken.
+
+It is needless to tell how Sheridan broke Early's left by an assault
+with the Nineteenth corps and Custer's cavalry at the same moment of the
+last successful charge upon his right. It was a famous victory, though
+not a bloodless one. Of the gallant men who went into the fight that
+morning on the union side, 588 never came out alive. Three thousand five
+hundred and sixteen were wounded. Early did not lose so many but his
+prestige was gone, his army destroyed and, from that moment, for the
+confederacy to continue the hopeless struggle was criminal folly.
+
+Cedar Creek was the ending of the campaign in the Shenandoah valley.
+There was some desultory skirmishing, but no real fighting thereafter.
+
+Among the wounded were Captain Charles Shier, jr. and Captain Darius G.
+Maynard, both of the First Michigan cavalry. Captain Shier died on the
+31st of October. He was wounded in the charge on the confederate
+battery. Captain Shier was as gallant an officer as any who periled his
+life on that famous battle field; and not only a fine soldier but a
+polished scholar and an accomplished gentleman as well. He was a
+distinguished son of the state of Michigan and of the noble university
+which bears its name. In his life and in his death he honored both.
+Massachusetts remembers the name and reveres the memory of Charles
+Lowell. Mothers recite to their children the circumstances of his heroic
+death, and in the halls of Harvard a tablet has been placed in his
+honor. Charles Shier is a name which ought to be as proudly remembered
+in Michigan and in Ann Arbor as is that of Charles Lowell in
+Massachusetts and in Cambridge. But fate, in its irony, has decreed that
+the nimbus which surrounds the brow of a nation's heroes shall be
+reserved for the few whom she selects as types, and these more often
+than otherwise idealized types chosen by chance or by accident. These
+alone may wear the laurel that catches the eye of ideality and
+furnishes the theme for the poet's praise. Others must be content to
+shine in reflected light or to be forgotten. The best way is to follow
+William Winter's advice and neither crave admiration nor expect
+gratitude. After all, the best reward that can come to a man is that
+intimate knowledge of himself which is the sure foundation of
+self-respect. The adulation of the people is a fugitive dream, as
+Admiral Dewey knows now, if he did not suspect it before.
+
+In the original manuscript of the foregoing chapter, written in the year
+1886, Lowell was represented as marching "without orders" from right to
+left with his own brigade and the Michigan brigade. In the text the
+words "without orders" have been omitted. This is not because my own
+recollection of the events of that day is not the same now as then, but
+for the reason that I am reluctant to invite controversy by giving as
+statements of fact things that rest upon the evidence of my own
+unsupported memory.
+
+After the manuscript had been prepared, it was referred to General
+Merritt with a request that he point out any errors or inaccuracies that
+he might note, as it was intended for publication. This request elicited
+the following reply:
+
+      "West Point, December 2, 1886.
+
+      "General J.H. Kidd,
+          "My Dear General:
+
+   "So much has been written as to the details of the war that I have
+   stopped reading the war papers in the best magazines, even. An
+   officer writes one month what is to him a truthful account of events
+   and the next month that account is contradicted by three or four in
+   print with dozens of others who content themselves with contradicting
+   it in talk. The account you send me of Cedar Creek is not more
+   accurate than the rest.
+
+   "The morning of the attack Lowell's brigade had been ordered to make
+   a reconnoissance on the 'Middle road.' This order was given by me the
+   evening before. The picket line of the First brigade was attacked
+   before the Reserve brigade moved out, and Lowell was ordered to hold
+   his brigade in hand to help the First brigade if the attack was
+   pressed.
+
+   "Soon after, the fighting on the left of our army was heavy, as shown
+   by the artillery fire, and stragglers commenced coming across towards
+   the back road. These were stopped and formed as far as possible by my
+   headquarters escort--the Fifth U.S. cavalry. About this time Devin's
+   brigade (my Second) was ordered to the left of our line to cover and
+   hold the valley pike.
+
+   "About ten o'clock, the remainder of the First division was moved to
+   the left of the infantry line and disposed so as to connect with the
+   infantry and cover the valley pike. This was soon done, the Second
+   brigade (Devin's) occupying the right, the Reserve brigade (Lowell's)
+   the center, and the First brigade (Kidd's) the left of the division
+   line of battle.
+
+   "This is the account of the first part of the battle taken from my
+   report written at the time. The movement of Lowell's brigade and your
+   own by agreement, and without orders, was impossible. We had all been
+   posted where we were as part of a line of battle, and any soldier who
+   took a command without orders from one part of a line to another
+   subjected himself to the penalty of being cashiered, as such action
+   might jeopardize the safety of an army.
+
+   "The principle of marching to the sound of battle when you are
+   distant and detached and without orders that contemplate the
+   contingency is well defined, but for a commander to leave without
+   orders one part of a line of battle because there appears to be
+   heavier fighting at another is all wrong and could not be tolerated.
+
+   "I should be glad to renew our acquaintance and talk over the war,
+   though as I have intimated I am sick of the fiction written with
+   reference to it.
+
+      "Truly yours,
+
+      W. MERRITT."
+
+General Merritt in his letter omits one clause in his quotation from his
+report written at the time which seems to me to have an important
+bearing upon this question. The clause is as follows:
+
+   "The First brigade was at once ordered to the support of its picket
+   line."
+
+Or to quote the passage in its entirety:
+
+   "About 4 a.m. on the 19th an attack was made on the pickets of the
+   First brigade near Cupp's ford, which attack, coupled with the firing
+   on the extreme left of the infantry line, alarmed the camps, and
+   everything was got ready for immediate action. The First brigade was
+   at once ordered to the support of its picket line, while the Reserve
+   brigade, which had the night before received orders to make a
+   reconnoissance on the Middle road, was ordered to halt and await
+   further orders. This brigade had advanced in the execution of its
+   reconnoissance to the picket line, and subsequently acted for a short
+   time with the First brigade in repelling the attack of the enemy,
+   feebly made on that part of the field. Soon after moving from camp
+   the heavy artillery firing and immense number of infantry stragglers
+   making across the country to the Back road from our left, showed that
+   it was in that direction the heavy force of the enemy was advancing.
+   The Fifth U.S. cavalry attached to the division headquarters was
+   deployed across the field and, together with the officers and
+   orderlies of the division staff did much toward preventing the
+   infantry going to the rear. About the same time the Second brigade
+   (General Devin) was ordered to move to the left of the line, cover
+   and hold the pike, and at the same time deploy men in that part of
+   the field to prevent fugitives going to the rear."
+
+[Illustration: THOMAS C. DEVIN]
+
+The rule about moving toward the sound of battle is succinctly stated by
+General Merritt in his letter and does not admit of controversy. But I
+may in all fairness call attention to the conditions that existed at the
+time when it was asserted that Colonel Lowell took the responsibility to
+move his brigade from the picket line to the rear, if not to the left,
+and order the First brigade to follow. The division line of battle of
+which the three brigades had been a part had been broken up. There was
+no division line of battle. The First brigade had been ordered to
+reinforce its picket line. The Reserve brigade which on the night before
+received the order to make a reconnoissance in the morning was held to
+support the First brigade and had "advanced as far as the picket line."
+Devin's brigade had been ordered to the valley pike to hold it and
+"deploy men to prevent fugitives going to the rear." May it not then be
+said with truth that he was "distant and detached" and "without orders
+that contemplate the contingency?" The enemy that attacked "feebly" had
+disappeared. There was in sight no picket line either of the enemy's or
+of our own. There was visible no line of skirmishers or of battle. The
+"fighting on the left of our army as shown by the artillery fire" was
+not only "heavy," as described by General Merritt, but indicated
+clearly by the sound that the army was falling back. Lowell's movement
+was under the circumstances entirely justifiable. That he moved from the
+picket line to the rear voluntarily, and that he took the responsibility
+to order the Michigan brigade to follow, is as certain as that when the
+moon passes between the earth and the sun it causes an eclipse.
+
+The march from the picket line to the pike was continuous. There was no
+halting for formations of any kind. It is quite possible, however, that
+the staff officer who conveyed the order from General Merritt found
+Lowell in motion in the right direction and delivered the order to him
+to cover the movement of both brigades. I do not remember receiving any
+order except the one from Lowell until after reaching the pike.
+
+One more point and this subject, which has been given more space perhaps
+than it ought to, will be left to the reader. General Merritt's report
+takes up the matter of arranging the division line of battle with the
+formation at "about ten o'clock," with the Second brigade on the right,
+next to the pike, the Reserve brigade in the center, and the First
+brigade on the left. That was some time after the arrival of the two
+brigades. The first position taken by the First brigade was next the
+pike in rear of Lowell and Devin. Martin's battery was posted originally
+close to the pike and it was while there that my horse was shot. I still
+believe that it was not much after nine o'clock when we first formed on
+the left of Getty's division. The subsequent rearrangement of the line
+is referred to in the text and was exactly as described in General
+Merritt's report.
+
+The following table of killed and wounded in the Michigan cavalry
+brigade in the Shenandoah Valley campaign is compiled from the official
+records in the office of the adjutant general of Michigan:
+
+                         First    Fifth    Sixth   Seventh
+                        Michigan Michigan Michigan Michigan Total
+   Winchester             16        8        7        8       39
+   Shepherdstown           1        5        1        0        7
+   Middletown              1       --       --       --        1
+   Smithfield              2        4        2        3       11
+   On Picket               1       --       --       --        1
+   Cedar Creek             3        5        6        2       16
+   By Mosby's Men         --       18       --       --       18
+   Front Royal            --        2       --        2        4
+   Newtown                --        4       --       --        4
+   Tom's Brook            --       --        1        1        2
+   Berryville             --       --       --        1        1
+                        ----     ----     ----     ----     ----
+   Total                  24       46       17       17      104
+
+Recapitulation--Killed and died of wounds, Shenandoah Valley:
+
+   First Michigan                                     24
+   Fifth Michigan                                     46
+   Sixth Michigan                                     17
+   Seventh Michigan                                   17
+                                                    ----
+   Total                                             104
+
+The following table of killed and wounded in the First cavalry division
+in the battle of Cedar Creek is taken from the official war records:[42]
+
+   First Brigade--
+     Officers and men killed                                    10
+     Officers and men wounded                                   43
+                                                              ----
+     Officers and men killed and wounded                        53
+
+   Second Brigade--
+     Officers and men killed                                     3
+     Officers and men wounded                                   16
+                                                              ----
+     Officers and men killed and wounded                        19
+
+   Reserve Brigade--
+     Officers and men killed                                     9
+     Officers and men wounded                                   27
+                                                              ----
+     Officers and men killed and wounded                        36
+
+   Total killed and wounded, First Brigade                      53
+   Total killed and wounded Second and Reserve Brigades         55
+
+It is thus seen that the First brigade lost in killed and wounded within
+two of as many as both the other brigades--almost fifty per cent of the
+entire losses of the division.
+
+Custer's division of two brigades lost 2 killed and 24 wounded.
+
+Powell's division of two brigades lost 1 killed, 8 wounded.
+
+In other words, while the entire of the Second and Third
+divisions--four brigades--lost but 35 killed and wounded, the Michigan
+brigade alone lost 53 in this battle. Thirty-four per cent of the entire
+losses killed and wounded in the cavalry corps were in this one
+brigade.[43]
+
+These figures give point to the statement of General Merritt in a
+communication to the adjutant general of the First cavalry division,
+dated November 4, 1864, that the list of killed and wounded in a battle
+is presumptive evidence of the degree and kind of service performed.[44]
+General Merritt also gives the Michigan brigade credit for "overwhelming
+a battery, and its supports," in other words capturing the battery.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII
+
+A MYSTERIOUS WITNESS
+
+
+In the latter part of the winter of 1864-65 I was detailed as president
+of a military commission, called to meet in Winchester to try a man
+charged with being a spy, a guerrilla, a dealer in contraband goods, and
+a bad and dangerous man. The specifications recited that the accused had
+been a member of the notorious Harry Gilmor's band of partisans; that he
+had been caught wearing citizen's clothes inside the union lines; and
+that he was in the habit of conveying quinine and other medical supplies
+into the confederacy. He was a mild mannered, inoffensive appearing
+person who had been an employe of the Baltimore and Ohio railroad
+company. He appeared under guard, before the commission, at its daily
+sessions, accompanied by his counsel, a leading attorney of Winchester,
+whose learning and ability were not less pronounced than was the quality
+of his whisky, samples of which he, at irregular intervals, brought in
+for the solace, if not for the seduction of the court. It was no more
+like the article commonly called whisky than Mumm's extra dry is like
+the pink lemonade of circus time. It had an oily appearance, an
+aromatic flavor, and the lawyer averred that there was not a headache in
+a barrel of it, though he was the only one who ever had an opportunity
+to test the truth of the statement and there is no doubt that he knew.
+
+The prisoner exhibited a surprising degree of sang froid considering the
+grave crimes with which he was charged, the penalty of conviction for
+any one of which was death. This attitude of the accused puzzled the
+commission not a little, for he acted like either a very hardened
+criminal, or a man who was both conscious of innocence and confident of
+acquittal, and he did not look like "a very bad man."
+
+The case was on trial when the army moved. General Sheridan seemed to
+lay much stress on the matter for he refused the request of the
+president of the commission to be relieved in order to rejoin his
+regiment. A personal letter from General Merritt to General Forsythe,
+chief-of-staff, making the same request was negatived and an order
+issued directing the commission to remain in session until that
+particular case was disposed of and providing that such members as
+should then desire it, be relieved and their places filled by others.
+
+During the progress of the trial the commission was informed that a very
+important witness had been detained under guard, by order of General
+Sheridan, in order that his testimony might be taken. On the witness's
+first appearance it was noticed that the guard detail was very careful
+to give him no opportunity to escape. He proved to be a person of most
+noticeable appearance. Rather above than under six feet, well-built,
+straight, athletic, with coal-black hair worn rather long, a keen,
+restless black eye, prominent features, well-dressed, and with a
+confident, devil-may-care bearing, he was altogether, a most striking
+figure. His name was Lemoss; his testimony to the point and unequivocal.
+He acknowledged having been a guerrilla, himself. He had, he said, been
+a member of Gilmor's band and of other equally notorious commands. He
+had deserted and tendered his services as a scout and they had been
+accepted by General Sheridan. He swore that he knew the prisoner; had
+seen him serving with Gilmor; and knew that he had been engaged in the
+practices charged.
+
+After this witness had given his testimony the court saw no more of him,
+but he left a very bad impression on the minds of the members and there
+was not one of them who did not feel, and give voice to the suspicion
+that there was something mysterious about him which was not disclosed at
+the trial. When news of the assassination of the president came to
+Winchester, all wondered if he did not have something to do with it and
+the name "Lemoss" was instantly on the lips of every one of us. He had,
+in the meantime disappeared.
+
+When I met General Sheridan in Petersburg, after the surrender, and he
+inquired what disposition had been made of that case I told him of the
+distrust of the principal witness and that it was the unanimous opinion
+of the commission that the witness was a much more dangerous man than
+the prisoner. The general smiled and remarked, rather significantly I
+thought, that he kept Early's spies at his headquarters all winter,
+letting them suppose that they were deceiving him, and that before the
+army moved he had sent them off on false scents. The inference I drew
+from the conversation was that Lemoss was one of those spies and that
+the trial was a blind for the purpose of keeping him where he could do
+no harm, without letting him know that he was under suspicion. Nothing
+more was said about the matter, and I presume that, at the time, General
+Sheridan did not know what had become of Lemoss.
+
+Soon after the grand review, my regiment was ordered to the west and,
+while en route to Leavenworth, Kansas, I stopped over night in St.
+Louis. When reading the morning paper at the breakfast table, I came
+upon an item which was dated in some New England city, Hartford or New
+Haven, I think, stating that a man by the name of Lemoss, who had been a
+scout at Sheridan's headquarters in the Shenandoah valley, had been
+arrested by the police in the city in question and papers found on his
+person tending to show that he had been in some way implicated in the
+plot to assassinate President Lincoln. This recalled to my mind the
+surmises in Winchester on the day of the event and also the hint thrown
+out by General Sheridan in reply to my question in Petersburg. I cut
+the slip out, intending to keep it, but before my return to the states a
+long time afterwards, had both lost it and temporarily forgotten the
+circumstance. It was not until many years had elapsed and I began to
+think of putting my recollections of the war into form for preservation,
+that all these things came back to my mind. I have often told the story
+to comrades at regimental or army reunions. The conjectures of the
+members of the military commission; the suggestion of General Sheridan
+that Lemoss was a confederate spy; and the newspaper clipping in St.
+Louis; all seemed so coincident as to form a pretty conclusive chain of
+evidence connecting the Winchester witness with the conspiracy. I never
+learned what was done with him after the arrest in New England.
+
+Recently, when consulting Sheridan's memoirs to verify my own
+remembrance of the dates of certain events in the Shenandoah campaign,
+what was my surprise to find that the purport of a passage bearing
+directly upon this subject had entirely escaped my attention on the
+occasion of a first reading soon after the book appeared.
+
+On page 108, volume 2, appears the following:
+
+   "A man named Lomas, who claimed to be a Marylander, offered me his
+   services as a spy, and coming highly recommended from Mr. Stanton,
+   who had made use of him in that capacity, I employed him. He made
+   many pretensions, was more than ordinarily intelligent, but my
+   confidence in him was by no means unlimited. I often found what he
+   reported corroborated by Young's men, but generally, there were
+   discrepancies in his tales which led me to suspect that he was
+   employed by the enemy as well as by me. I felt however, that with
+   good watching, he could do me very little harm and, if my suspicions
+   were incorrect, he might be very useful, so I held on to him.
+
+   "Early in February Lomas was very solicitous for me to employ a man,
+   who, he said, had been with Mosby, but on account of some quarrel had
+   abandoned that leader. Thinking that with two of them I might destroy
+   the railroad bridge east of Lynchburg, I concluded after the Mosby
+   man had been brought to my headquarters, by Lomas about 12 o'clock
+   one night, to give him employment at the same time informing Colonel
+   Young that I suspected their fidelity and that he must test it by
+   shadowing their every movement. When Lomas's companion entered my
+   room he was completely disguised but on discarding the various
+   contrivances by which his identity was concealed he proved to be a
+   rather slender, dark-complexioned, handsome young man, of easy
+   address and captivating manners. He gave his name as "Renfrew,"
+   answered all questions satisfactorily, and went into details about
+   Mosby and his men which showed an intimacy with them at some time. I
+   explained the work I had laid out for them, * * * * * They assented
+   and it was arranged that they should start the following night.
+   Meantime Young had selected his men to shadow them and, two days
+   later, they reported my spies as being concealed in Strasburg without
+   making the slightest effort to continue on their mission. On the 16th
+   of February, they returned and reported their failure, telling so
+   many lies as to remove all doubt as to their double-dealing.
+   Unquestionably, they were spies, but it struck me that through them I
+   might deceive Early as to the time of opening the spring campaign. I
+   therefore, retained the men without even a suggestion of my knowledge
+   of their true character. Young, meantime, kept close watch over all
+   their doings."
+
+General Sheridan then, after giving a summary of the scattered locations
+of the various portions of Early's army continues as follows:
+
+   "It was my aim to get well on the road before Early could collect
+   these scattered forces and as the officers had been in the habit of
+   amusing themselves during the winter by fox-hunting, I decided to use
+   the hunt as an expedient for stealing a march on the enemy and had it
+   given out that a grand fox-chase would take place on the 29th of
+   February. Knowing that Lomas and Renfrew would spread the
+   announcement south they were permitted to see several red foxes as
+   well as a pack of hounds which had been secured for the spurt and
+   were then started on a second expedition to burn the bridges. Of
+   course, they were shadowed, and two days later were arrested in
+   Newtown. On the way north, they escaped from their guards when
+   passing through Baltimore, and I never heard of them again, though I
+   learned that, after the assassination of Mr. Lincoln, Secretary
+   Stanton strongly suspected his friend Lomas of being associated with
+   the conspirators and it then occurred to me that the good-looking
+   Renfrew may have been Wilkes Booth, for he certainly bore a strong
+   resemblance to Booth's pictures."
+
+There is no doubt that "Lemoss," the witness, and the "Lomas" of General
+Sheridan's narrative, were one and the same person. When he wrote the
+account from which the foregoing is an extract, General Sheridan had,
+probably, forgotten about leaving the spies in Winchester under guard
+where they remained until he was well on his way towards Appomattox.
+After giving his testimony, Lomas and Renfrew were sent north under
+guard by General Hancock, Sheridan's successor as commander of the
+Middle Military Division, and making their escape as explained in
+Sheridan's narrative, Wilkes Booth, alias Renfrew, was able to carry out
+his part of the plot. It is, also, quite probable that Lomas's part in
+the conspiracy was to assassinate either General Sheridan or Secretary
+Stanton, but, that the scheme was interrupted by the detention of the
+two spies in Winchester coupled with the unexpected opening of the
+spring campaign. It is likely that the arrest of the two conspirators
+led to a postponement of the date of the assassination and that the
+scope of the plot as originally conceived in the fertile brain of Booth,
+was very much abridged. There was never in my own mind a particle of
+doubt, from the moment we heard the news of the president's death, that
+the man Lomas or Lemoss had something to do with it. The fact that he
+was on terms of intimacy with Secretary Stanton and contrived to be
+stationed at Sheridan's headquarters, seems to point conclusively to the
+part he was to play in the tragedy. At that time, Sheridan was
+considered, perhaps, the most dangerous enemy the confederacy had to
+fear and his name must have been high up in the list of those marked by
+the conspirators for assassination.
+
+An amusing incident occurred as this trial neared its close. The defense
+asked to have William Prescott Smith, master of transportation of the
+Baltimore and Ohio railroad, summoned as a witness. His residence was
+Baltimore and he was summoned by wire, the telegram bearing the name of
+General Hancock, commander of the department. Mr. Smith did not want to
+come to Winchester and urged the commission to go to Baltimore. Failing
+to secure acquiescence in that proposition, he suggested as a
+compromise, that the commission meet him half-way by going to Harper's
+Ferry. This was agreed to and on the appointed day, the commission took
+passage on a special train consisting of a locomotive and one passenger
+coach taking along the prisoner and a guard. Harper's Ferry was reached
+a little after dark and a messenger from Mr. Smith met us with the
+compliments of that gentleman and a request that we proceed to his
+private car. The invitation was accepted and the party was received by
+the railroad magnate with every manifestation of welcome and a courtesy
+that seemed to be entirely unaffected. It was found that the most
+generous and thoughtful provision had been made for our comfort. The
+colored chef prepared a dinner which would have tickled the palate of an
+epicure, much more those of a quartet of hungry officers directly from
+the front. There were champagne and cigars in abundance of a quality
+such as would have been good enough had General Hancock himself been the
+guest. The host was courtesy itself, an excellent raconteur, a good
+fellow, and a gentleman. He could not have treated the president and his
+cabinet with more distinguished consideration that that with which he
+honored that little party of volunteer officers.
+
+Late in the evening his testimony was taken and he gave the prisoner a
+very good character. We slept in his car and in the morning had a
+breakfast that suitably supplemented the elegant dinner. Some more
+choice cigars, and then Mr. Smith's private car was attached to an
+ingoing train and he departed for Baltimore. At the very last moment
+before his train started, Mr. Smith said:
+
+"Pardon me, gentlemen, but it is too good a joke to keep and I am sure
+that you will appreciate it now better than you would have done last
+night. When you wired me to come, you know, General Hancock's name was
+signed to the telegram. I supposed I was to entertain him and don't mind
+telling you, frankly, that the dinner was provided with especial
+reference to his supposed partiality for the good things of life. I
+don't mean to say I would not have done the same thing for you. I
+certainly would now that I know you, but, all the same, please say to
+the general that I expected him and regret much that he was not one of
+the party so that I might have had the pleasure of entertaining him as
+well as yourselves. And, by the way, he continued, when I urged you to
+come to Baltimore it had been arranged that the mayor and a large number
+of prominent citizens of the city were to meet you at a banquet to have
+been given at the Eutaw House in honor of General Hancock."
+
+The refined courtesy of the gentleman was something that has been rarely
+surpassed.
+
+Mr. Smith was a thoroughbred.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV
+
+A MEETING WITH MOSBY
+
+
+At the time of the surrender of Lee and the fall of Richmond about the
+only confederate force in the Shenandoah Valley was Mosby's band. The
+last of Early's army had been swept away by Sheridan's advance, led by
+Custer, and for the first time since 1860, that beautiful valley was
+free from the movements of armed forces confronting each other in
+hostile array. The bold and dashing partisan was, however, capable of
+doing much mischief and it was thought best by General Hancock to treat
+with him and see if he would not consent to a cessation of hostilities
+and, possibly, take the parole. Accordingly, an agreement was made to
+meet him at Millwood, a little town a few miles distant from Winchester
+and near the mountains. General Chapman, a cavalry officer, was selected
+to conduct the negotiations and with an escort of two regiments left
+early on the morning of the day designated for the rendezvous agreed
+upon. Not yet having been relieved from duty there I readily obtained
+permission to accompany the expedition. I was early in the saddle and
+joining a party of staff officers, struck across country, arriving at
+about the same time as the escort which took the main road.
+
+The region to which we were going was one of the favorite haunts of
+Mosby and his men and it produced a queer sensation to thus ride
+peacefully through a country where for four long years, the life or
+liberty of the union soldier caught outside the lines had been worth not
+a rush, unless backed by force enough to hold its own against an enemy.
+There never had been a time since our advent into this land of the
+philistines (a land literally flowing with milk and honey) when we could
+go to Millwood without a fight, and here we were going without
+molestation, right into the lair of the most redoubtable of all the
+partisan leaders.
+
+But Mosby's word was law in that section. His fiat had gone forth that
+there was to be a truce, and no union men were to be molested until it
+should be declared off. There was, therefore, no one to molest or make
+us afraid. No picket challenged. Not a scout or vidette was seen. The
+country might have been deserted, for all the indications of life that
+could be heard or seen. The environment seemed funereal and the ride
+could hardly be described as a cheerful one. Each one was busy with his
+own thoughts. All wondered if the end had really come, or was it yet
+afar off? Lee had surrendered but Johnson had not. Would he?
+
+The chief interest, for the time being, however, centered in the coming
+interview with Mosby, under a flag of truce. If he could be prevailed
+upon to take the parole there would not be an armed confederate in that
+part of Virginia.
+
+It had been expected that he would be there first but he was not and his
+arrival was eagerly awaited. The escort was massed near a large farm
+house, the owner of which was very hospitable and had arranged to give
+the two commands a dinner.
+
+The officers were soon dispersed in easy attitudes about the porches and
+lawn or under the shade of friendly trees, smoking and chatting about
+the interesting situation. Eager glances were cast in the direction from
+which our old foe was expected to come, and there was some anxiety lest
+he should fail to meet the appointment after all. But, at length, when
+the forenoon was pretty well spent, the sound of a bugle was heard. All
+sprang to their feet. In a moment, the head of a column of mounted men
+emerged from a woody screen on the high ground, toward the east, as
+though coming straight out of the mountain, and presently, the whole
+body of gray troopers came into view.
+
+It was a gallant sight, a thrilling scene, for all the world like a
+picture from one of Walter Scott's novels; and to the imagination,
+seemed a vision of William Wallace or of Rob Roy. The place itself was a
+picturesque one--a little valley nestling beneath the foot-hills at the
+base of the mountains whose tops towered to the sky. Hills and wooded
+terraces surrounded it, shutting it in on all sides, obstructing the
+view and leaving the details of the adjacent landscape to the
+imagination.
+
+Mosby evidently had arranged his arrival with a view to theatric
+effect--though it was no mimic stage on which he was acting--for it was
+to the sound of the bugle's note that he burst into view and, like a
+highland chief coming to a lowland council, rode proudly at the head of
+his men. Finely uniformed and mounted on a thorough bred sorrel mare,
+whose feet spurned the ground, he pranced into our presence. Next came
+about sixty of his men, including most of the officers, all, like
+himself, dressed in their best and superbly mounted. It was a goodly
+sight to see.
+
+General Chapman advanced to meet the commander as he dismounted and the
+two officers shook hands cordially. There were then introductions all
+around and in a few moments, the blue and the gray were intermingling on
+the most friendly terms.
+
+It was difficult to believe that we were in the presence of the most
+daring and audacious partisan leader, at the same time that he was one
+of the most intrepid and successful cavalry officers in the confederate
+service. He was wary, untiring, vigilant, bold, and no federal trooper
+ever went on picket without the feeling that this man might be close at
+hand watching to take advantage of any moment of unwariness. He had been
+known in broad daylight, to dash right into federal camps, where he was
+outnumbered a hundred to one, and then make his escape through the
+fleetness of his horses and his knowledge of the by-roads. On more than
+one occasion, he had charged through a union column, disappearing on
+one flank as quickly as he had appeared on the other. His men, in union
+garb, were often in our camps mingling unsuspected with our men or
+riding by their side when on the march.
+
+We were prepared to see a large, fierce-looking dragoon but, instead,
+beheld a small, mild-mannered man not at all like the ideal. But, though
+small, he was wiry, active, restless and full of fire.
+
+"How much do you weigh, colonel?" I asked as I shook his hand and looked
+inquiringly at his rather slender figure.
+
+"One hundred and twenty-eight pounds," said he.
+
+"Well, judging from your fighting reputation, I looked for a two hundred
+pounder, at least," I replied.
+
+His spare form was set off by a prominent nose, a keen eye and a sandy
+beard. There was nothing ferocious in his appearance but when in the
+saddle he was not a man whom one would care to meet single-handed. There
+was that about him which gave evidence of alertness and courage of the
+highest order.
+
+It was astonishing to see officers of Mosby's command walk up to union
+officers, salute and accost them by name.
+
+"Where did I meet you?" would be the reply.
+
+"There was no introduction. I met you in your camp, though you were not
+aware of it at the time."
+
+Major Richards, a swarthy-looking soldier, remarked to me that he was
+once a prisoner of the Fifth and Sixth Michigan cavalry. He was captured
+near Aldie, in the spring of 1863, and made his escape when the Michigan
+regiments were on the march back to Fairfax Court House, in the night,
+when his guards were not noticing, by falling out of the column and
+boldly ordering his captors to "close up" as they were coming out of a
+narrow place in the road when the column of fours had to break by twos.
+In the darkness and confusion he was mistaken for one of our own
+officers. After he had seen the column all "closed up" he rode the other
+way.
+
+After awhile the farmer called us in to dinner and the blue and the gray
+were arranged around the table, in alternate seats. I sat between two
+members of the celebrated Smith family. One of them, R. Chilton Smith,
+was a relative of General Lee, or of his chief-of-staff, a young man of
+very refined manners, highly educated and well bred. He sent a package
+and a message by me to a friend in Winchester, a commission that was
+faithfully executed. The other was the son of Governor, better known as
+"Extra Billy" Smith, of Virginia; a short, sturdy youth, full of life
+and animation and venom.
+
+"Mosby would be a blanked fool to take the parole," said he, spitefully.
+"I will not, if he does."
+
+"But Lee has surrendered. The jig is up. Why try to prolong the war and
+cause further useless bloodshed?"
+
+"I will never give up so long as there is a man in arms against your
+yankee government," he replied.
+
+"But what can you do? Richmond is ours."
+
+"I will go and join 'Joe' Johnston."
+
+"It is a question of but a few days, at most, when Sherman will bag
+him."
+
+"Then I will go west of the Mississippi, where Kirby Smith still holds
+the fort."
+
+"Grant, Sherman, Sheridan and Thomas will make short work of Kirby
+Smith."
+
+"Then, if worst comes to worst," he hotly retorted, "I will go to Mexico
+and join Maximilian. I will never submit to yankee rule; never."
+
+I greatly enjoyed the young man's fervor and loyalty to his "cause" and,
+in spite of his bitterness, we took quite a liking to each other and, on
+parting, he was profuse in his expressions of regard and urged me
+cordially not to forget him should fortune take me his way again.
+
+A day or two later, I was ordered to Petersburg, and soon thereafter,
+was in Richmond, Johnston having, in the meantime, surrendered. In the
+evening of the day of my arrival, after having visited the points of
+interest, Libby prison, the burnt district, the state house, etc., I was
+in the office of the Spotswood hotel where were numbers of federal and
+confederate soldiers chatting pleasantly together, when I was saluted
+with a hearty:
+
+"Hello; how are you, colonel!" and, on looking around, was surprised as
+well as pleased to see my young friend of the Millwood conference.
+
+I was mighty glad to meet him again and told him so, while he seemed to
+reciprocate the feeling. There was a cordial shaking of hands and after
+the first friendly greetings had been exchanged I said:
+
+"But what does this mean? How about Mexico and Maximilian? Where is
+Mosby? What has been going on in the valley? Tell me all about it."
+
+"Mexico be blanked" said he. "Mosby has taken the parole and so have I.
+The war is over and I am glad of it. I own up. I am subjugated."
+
+The next day I met him again.
+
+"I would be only too glad to invite you to our home and show you a
+little hospitality," said he, "but your military governor has taken
+possession of our house, father has run away, and mother is around among
+the neighbors."
+
+I assured him of my appreciation of both his good will and of the
+situation and begged him to be at ease on my account. He very politely
+accompanied me in a walk around the city and did all he could to make my
+stay agreeable.
+
+I never saw him afterwards. When in Yorktown in 1881, I made inquiry of
+General Fitzhugh Lee about young Smith and learned that he was dead. I
+hope that he rests in peace, for although a "rebel" and a "guerrilla,"
+as we called them in those days, he was a whole-hearted, generous, and
+courageous foe who, though but a boy in years, was ready to fight for
+the cause he believed in and, in true chivalrous spirit, grasp the hand
+of his former adversary in genuine kindness and good-fellowship.
+
+One other incident of the Millwood interview is perhaps worth narrating.
+
+A bright eyed young scamp of Mosby's command mounted the sorrel mare
+ridden by his chief, and flourishing a roll of bills which they had
+probably confiscated on some raid into yankee territory, rode back and
+forth in front of the lawn, crying out:
+
+"Here are two hundred dollars in greenbacks which say that this little,
+lean, sorrel mare of Colonel Mosby's, can outrun any horse in the yankee
+cavalry."
+
+The bet was not taken.
+
+
+THE END
+
+
+
+
+ROLL OF HONOR
+
+LIST OF KILLED IN ACTION
+
+
+Following is a list of those killed in action, or who died of wounds
+received in action in the four regiments which constituted the Michigan
+cavalry brigade, commanded by General George Armstrong Custer, in the
+civil war of 1861-65. It constitutes a veritable roll of honor:
+
+
+FIRST MICHIGAN CAVALRY
+
+NAME AND POSITION               COMPANY   BATTLE                DATE OF DEATH
+Adams, William, Private           H     Cold Harbor           June 1        1864
+Alcott, Richard, Private          L     Cedar Mountain        August 9      1862
+Altenburg, William, Corporal      B     Bull Run              August 30     1862
+Andrus, John, Private             K     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Anson, Elisha B., Sergeant        E     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Babcock, Edwin H., Private        K     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Bachman, Robert, Sergeant         G     Appomattox            April 9       1865
+Banker, Edward S., Private        C     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Barney, Lorenzo J., Private       A     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Bartlett, Orrin M., Lieutenant    H     Five Forks            April 1       1865
+Bateman, Cyrus A., Corporal       M     Shenandoah Valley     August 11     1864
+Battison, William, Sergeant       H     Piedmont              April 17      1862
+Bell, Charles S., Private         E     Todd's Tavern         April 7       1864
+Beloir, Michael, Sergeant         B     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Bentley, Augustus W., Corporal    I     Gettysburg            July 3        1864
+Brown, Dexter, Corporal           E     Yellow Tavern         June 11       1864
+Blount, Lemuel K., Private        A     Yellow Tavern         June 11       1864
+Bovee, John S., Sergeant          F     Gettysburg            July 3        1864
+Brevoort, William M., Captain     K     Cold Harbor           June 1        1864
+Brewer, Charles E., Private       A     Bull Run              August 30     1862
+Brodhead, Thornton F., Colonel          Bull Run              August 30     1862
+Bucklin, Lyman D., Private        C     Unknown               May 13        1863
+Buhl, Augustus F., Captain        C     Shepherdstown         August 25     1864
+Butler, Abner K., Private         F     Middletown            April 4       1862
+Byscheck, John, Private           C     Dinwiddie Courthouse  March 30      1865
+Campeau, Eli, Private             K     Unknown               Died July 3   1865
+Carr, Alpheus W., Captain         I     Trevilian Station     June 12       1864
+Chatfield, William H., Private    B     Bull Run              August 30     1862
+Chilson, Alphonso W., Sergeant    I     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Chittenden, Adelbert, Private     G     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Cicotte, David, jr., Private      C     Winchester            February 23   1865
+Clarke, John R., Private          K     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Cole, Benjamin, Chief Bugler            Winchester            September 19  1864
+Colles, David W., Private         I     Unknown               May 26        1865
+Crawford, Charles C., Private     M     Todd's Tavern         May 7         1864
+Crosby, Henry, Private            E     Unknown               Died June 1   1864
+Cummings, George W., Private      A     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Cunningham, Barnabas, Private     A     Smithfield            August 29     1864
+Davis, Joseph, Private            I     Unknown               Died June 20  1864
+Davison, Joseph, Private          G     Unknown               Died April 7  1865
+Dibble, Darius, Private           L     Cedar Mountain        August 9      1862
+Dorsay, John, Private             B     Appomattox            April 9       1865
+Durkee, Robert, Private           K     Bull Run              August 30     1862
+Eagle, Ellwood, Private           H     Cold Harbor           June 1        1864
+Eastman, Oscar A, Sergeant        I     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Eaton, William O, Private         H     Accident              October 28    1862
+Edgerton, George W, Private       L     Beaver Dam            May 9         1864
+Elliott, William R, Captain       C     Fairfield Gap         July 4        1863
+Ellis, Henry, Private             L     Cedar Mountain        August 9      1862
+Ensign, Leroy, Private            M     Winchester            May 4         1862
+Fisher, Peter, Private            E     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Follett, Irving B, Sergeant       L     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Foss, Andrew, Private             I     On Picket             December 14   1864
+Frost, Joel, Corporal             L     Cedar Mountain        August 9      1862
+Falcher, John, Private            K     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Gillett, George M, Corporal       B     Hagarstown            July          1863
+Gordon, Alexander, Corporal       H     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Graves, Benjamin F, Private       A     Cold Harbor           June 1        1864
+Grimes, Micah, Private            M     Unknown               Died
+                                                              September 2   1864
+Handy, Lucius F, Private          F     Todd's Tavern         May 7         1864
+Hart, Lorenzo, Corporal           L     Dinwiddie Courthouse  March 30      1865
+Hicks, Charles Eugene, Private    F     Fort Scott            January 12    1863
+Hobbs, David, Private             B     Bull Run              August 30     1862
+Hoffman, Peter, Corporal          B     Trevilian Station     June 12       1864
+Hough, Albert or Robert, Private  H     Unknown               Died April 8  1865
+Hovey, Henry, Private             A     Unknown               Died June 18  1864
+Hughes, Patrick H., Corporal      E     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Hutton, Thomas, Private           C     Snicker's Ferry       March 26      1862
+Hymen, Ralph, Private             I     Bull Run              August 30     1862
+Iott, Harrison, Private           I     Harper's Ferry        August 31     1864
+Irwin, H. II., Private            F     Unknown   Died        September 5   1864
+Irwin, Stephen, H., Sergeant      I     Old Church            May 30        1864
+Jackson, Albert T., Captain       F     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Jackson, William, Private         K     Rapidan River         September 14  1863
+Jacob, Henry, Private             A     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Jacobs, George A., Private        I     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Jayne, William H., Sergeant       G     Unknown               Died September
+                                                              23            1863
+Kidder, Hiram O., Private         A     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Keferly (Keferle) Frank, Private  H     Bull Run              August 30     1862
+Kilbride (Kilride) William,
+  Private                         H     Piedmont              April 17      1862
+Kling, Henry, Private             G     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Kroop, Albert, Private            H     Unknown               Died April 8  1865
+Lambert, Jacob, Private           K     Unknown               Died June 16  1864
+Lewis, Lewis J., (Lucius) Private K     Unknown               Died June 15  1864
+Long (Lozo) Henry, Private        I     Cedar Creek           October 19    1864
+Longdo, Jeremiah, Private         B     Unknown               Died June     1864
+Lyon, James B., Sergeant          L     Unknown               Died June 4   1864
+McDermott, James, Corporal        A     Bull Run              August 29     1862
+McElheny, James S., Captain       G     Fairfield Gap         July 4        1863
+Manuel, Peter, Private            K     Unknown               Died July 29  1864
+Marshner, Frank A., Private       A     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Martin, David, Private            C     Fairfield Gap         July 4        1863
+Mathews, Samuel M., Private       A     Indians               August 13     1865
+Merriam, John G., Private         K     Bull Run              August 30     1862
+Michaels, William H., Private     C     Trevilian Station     June 12       1864
+Miller, John, Private             E     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Moran, Thomas, Private            A     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Morse, Sidney G., First Sergeant  M     Bull Run              August 30     1862
+Moss, Daniel B., Sergeant         A     Dinwiddie Courthouse  March 30      1865
+Murray, Elias M., Private         M     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Nesbit, James, Private            L     Trevilian Station     June 12       1864
+Orth, Adam, Private               A     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Owen, Perry, Private              F     Cedar Creek           October 19    1864
+Phelps, Ralph Z., Battalion
+  Adjutant                              Accident              April 1       1862
+Pierce, Henry C., Sergeant        B     Bull Run              August 30     1862
+Piper, Leo, Sergeant              C     Five Forks            April 1       1865
+Pixley, John, Private             K     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Power (Tower) Mortimer F.,
+  Private                         C     Trevilian Station     June 12       1864
+Pulver, Andrew J., Lieutenant     A     Trevilian Station     June 12       1864
+Price, William H., Private        L     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Ransom, William W., Sergeant      K     Unknown               Died August 3 1864
+Reed, Charles D., Private         K     Smithfield            August 29     1864
+Rennan, Frederick, Private        E     Cold Harbor           June 1        1864
+Reynolds, Samuel W., Private      F     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Rhoades, Willard, Q. M.  Sergeant B     Centerville           November 6    1863
+Robertson, William, Sergeant      I     Wilderness            May 6         1864
+Robins, Charles H., Private       A     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Robinson, George W., Lieutenant   A     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Rose, William L., Com. Sergeant   G     Unknown               Died December
+                                                              25            1864
+Rush, Thomas, Private             K     Unknown               Died July 13  1864
+Ryder, Alfred G., Corporal        H     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Saulsbury, Charles, Private       K     Bull Run              August 30     1862
+Sawyer, Henry O., Private         I     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Schintzler, Leonard, Private      H     Old Church            May 30        1864
+Shanahan, Thomas, Corporal        H     Fountaindale          July 4        1863
+Shaughnessy, William, Private     B     Bull Run              August 30     1862
+Shier, Charles, jr., Captain      K     Cedar Creek           October 19    1864
+Sitts, Charles, Private           L     Fairfield Gap         July 4        1863
+Smith, Marcus, Private            I     Accident              May 20        1864
+Snyder, Charles F., Captain       F     Hagarstown            July 6        1863
+Stanley, Henry C., Private        F     Five Forks            April 1       1865
+Stewart, William, Private         C     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Sterling, Richard, Hospital
+  Steward                               Unknown               Died November
+                                                              6             1864
+Teebles, William H.,
+  Private                         C     Brentsville           June 7        1863
+Thomas, Abel, Private             H     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Thomas, Benjamin, Private         B     Bull Run              August 30     1862
+Thomas, Cassius M., Private       M     Wilderness            May 6         1864
+Thomas, Samuel H., Private        C     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Truesdale, Lewis B., Sergeant     K     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Vance, George, Private            K     Bull Run              August 30     1862
+Vandecar, Thomas H., Private      L     Unknown               Died May 26   1865
+Vashaw, John, Private             K     Bull Run              August 30     1862
+Warren, Robert S., Lieutenant     C     Trevilian Station     June 12       1864
+Waterman, W. E., First Sergeant   H     Unknown               Died June 20  1864
+Watson, Colbert R., Sergeant      L     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Welch, Jay Michael, Private       A     Winchester            August 11     1864
+Welton, Ransom W., Private        E     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Wescott, James M., Private        K     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Whitney, Ambrose, Private         H     By Accident           March 7       1862
+Whitney, George C., Lieutenant    F     Five Forks            April 1       1865
+Wideroder, John C., Private       F     Trevilian Station     June 12       1864
+Wilcox, Alonzo W., Sergeant       H     Brentsville           June 7        1863
+Wilcox, Philip, jr., Private      L     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Williams, Isaac, Private          K     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Winfield, George D., Corporal     D     Salem                 April 1       1862
+Warwick, William, Private         K     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Wieg, Orren, Private              L     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+
+
+FIFTH MICHIGAN CAVALRY
+
+Ackerman, Hiram, Corporal         A     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Allen, Nelson A., Private         D     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Allison, George S., Private       B     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Alverson, Thomas J., Private      G     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Anderson, Alfred C., Private      D     Boonesborough         July 8        1863
+Atherholt, Peter, Private         F     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Axtell, Benjamin F., Captain      F     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Ball, William, Private            M     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Barbour, Frank A., Sergeant       A     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Barse, Horace S., Corporal        E     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Beebe, Henry C., Corporal         A     Morton's Ford         November 27   1863
+Bemis, Andrew J., Private         K     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Benning, John, Private            F     Unknown               Died August 7 1865
+Bishop, Abraham, Private          B     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Bliss, Henry G., Private          I     Raccoon Ford          September 16  1863
+Brennan, William, Sergeant        B     Monterey Gap          July 4        1863
+Brink, Simeon L., Private         B     Buckland Mills        October 19    1863
+Brown, Clifton E., Private        A     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Brown, William, Private           H     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Buell, John, Private              K     Gettysburg            July 3        1864
+Burdick, Reuben, Private          I     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Burnett, Henry, Corporal          D     Shepherdstown         August 29     1864
+Burson, Joseph, Private           L     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Busley, Levi, Private             M     Richmond              March 1       1864
+Cathcart, Albert J., Private      B     Unknown               Died July 5   1864
+Chapman, Edward, Private          E     Buckland Mills        October 19    1863
+Chart (Chant), Private            G     Salem                 October 23    1864
+Clark, Frederick, Private         F     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Clark, Henry, Private             M     Dinwiddie Courthouse  April 4       1865
+Clyde, Charles B., Private        M     Berryville by
+                                          Guerrillas          August 19     1864
+Colf, Levinas, Private            K     Wilderness            May 6         1864
+Comte, Victor E., Wagoner         C     Unknown               Died July 11  1864
+Connor, James, Private            A     Morton's Ford         November 27   1863
+Corcelins, Frederick, Private     K     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Corser, Augustus F., Private      C     Stevensburg           October 30    1863
+Coston, Peter, Private            M     Berryville by
+                                          Guerrillas          August 19     1864
+Craft, Charles, Private           M     Berryville by
+                                          Guerrillas          August 19     1864
+Day, Alpheus  G., Corporal        E     Berryville by
+                                          Guerrillas          August 19     1864
+Dean, Henry J., Private           D    Yellow Tavern          May 12        1864
+Decker, George R., Private        K    Trevilian Station      June 11       1864
+Dell, Martin V., Private          H    Trevilian Station      June 11       1864
+Derwin, Lewis, Private            C    Winchester             September 19  1864
+Dockham, Reuben K., Sergeant      C    Unknown                Died June 18  1864
+Duffey, James, Corporal           F    Falmouth               August 4      1863
+Eggleston, Andrew J., Sergeant    K    Unknown                Died July 1   1864
+Essler, Samuel K., Private        C    Berryville by
+                                         Guerrillas           August 19     1864
+Evans, Andrew R., Private         A    Gettysburg             July 3        1863
+Felt, John, Private               H    Trevilian Station      June 11       1864
+Ferry, Noah H., Major                  Gettysburg             July 3        1863
+Fox, Josiah, Sergeant             M    Trevilian Station      June 11       1864
+Friday, Adolph, Private           F     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Gale, Henry D., Corporal          C     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Garvelink, Herman, Corporal       I     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Gibbs, Levi, Private              G     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Gillett, William H., Corporal     K     Wilderness            May 6         1864
+Granger, Edward G., Lieutenant    C     Front Royal           August 16     1864
+Gudith, John D., Corporal         D     Cedar Creek           October 19    1864
+Hammond, Smith (Noble S.)
+    Sergeant                      G     Brandy Station        October 11    1863
+Hanly, Richard, Private           E     Middletown            August 15     1864
+Harmon, Allen M., Lieutenant      B     By Accident           April 20      1863
+Henry, Alfred A., Private         C     Berryville by
+                                          Guerrillas          August 19     1864
+Hichler, George, Private          E     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Hicks, George H., Corporal        I     Smithfield            August 29     1864
+Higgins, Charles W., Private      D     Cedar Creek           October 19    1864
+Hill, Philip H., Corporal         E     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Hirner, Louis, Private            I     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Hobbs, Levant, Sergeant           C     Unknown               Died June 6   1864
+Hodge, Milton, Private            K     Brandy Station        October 11    1863
+Huff, John A., Private            E     Cold Harbor           June 1        1864
+Jackson, Andrew T., Private       A     Brandy Station        October 11    1863
+James, Aaron B., Sergeant         H     Newtown               November 12   1864
+Johnson, Julius C., Private       D     Newtown               November 12   1864
+Kennedy, Philip, Private          H     Front Royal           August 16     1864
+Kennicut, James C., Private       I     Berryville by
+                                          Guerrillas          August 19     1864
+Kent, Francis P., Private         G     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Lewis, Eaton, Private             M     Berryville by
+                                          Guerrillas          August 19     1864
+Little, John M., Private          M     Brandy Station        October 11    1863
+Lusk, John F., Sergeant           K     Winchester            October 19    1864
+Lutz, John G., Private            C     Berryville by
+                                          Guerrillas          August 19     1864
+McChusen, J. B., Private          G     Buckland Mills        October 19    1863
+McCormick, William J., Private    D     Dinwiddie Courthouse  April 1       1865
+McCrary, Calvin, Private          M     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+McGuire, John, Private            F     Appomattox            April 8       1865
+McIntyre, John D., Private        C     Brandy Station        October 12    1863
+Maguire, Christopher, Private     I     Yellow Tavern         May 12        1864
+Mann, Harvey W., Corporal         I     Shepherdstown         August 25     1864
+Marshall, Norton C., Sergeant     I     Hanovertown (?)       May 27        1864
+Mather, Zelotes H., Sergeant      M     Boonesborough         July 8        1863
+Meyer, George W., Private         M     Luray                 September 24  1864
+Miller, Daniel F., Sergeant       L     Unknown               Died June 14  1864
+Mills, James F., Private          M     Richmond              March 1       1864
+Morgan, Isaac C., Private         E     Newtown               November 12   1864
+North, William O., Captain        F     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Notting, John, Private            I     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+O'Brien, Anthony, Private         A     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+O'Brien, John, Private            A     By Guerrillas         December 2    1864
+O'Brien, Matthew, Private         A     Loudon County         November      1864
+Olaphant, David, Captain          B     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Osborn, Isaac C., Private         M     Berryville by
+                                          Guerrillas          August 19     1864
+Perkins, Isaac, Private           A     Smithfield            August 29     1864
+Phelan, Thomas, Sergeant          L     Cedar Creek           October 19    1864
+Phillips, Edward H., Sergeant     H     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Prouty, Wallace, Private          E     Newtown               November 23   1864
+Purdy, Robert, Private            H     Trevilian Station     June 12       1864
+Ragan, Alexander, Corporal        C     Appomattox            March 31      1865
+Rathburn, Chauncey J., Private    D     Hanover               June 30       1863
+Reed, Arthur, Private             H     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Roberts, Ephraim, Sergeant        E     Cedar Creek           October 19    1864
+Rockwell, Floyd, Private          L     Ashby's Gap           July 21       1863
+Rockwell, William H., Corporal    I     Brandy Station        October 11    1863
+Roe, Alva, Private                B     Smithfield            August 29     1864
+Russell, Major W., Private        M     Summit Point          September 5   1864
+Ryan, Michael, Private            K     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Ryder, Stephen, Sergeant          D     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Scates, Charles, Private          A     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Shafer, Absalom B., Private       C     Berryville by
+                                          Guerrillas          August 19     1864
+Shattuck, Oscar, Private          K     Boonesborough         July 8        1863
+Shrontz, Mortimer J., Sergeant    M     Smithburg             July 5        1863
+Sickman, Simon, Private           F     James City            Died November
+                                                              1             1863
+Skeels, Squire E., Sergeant       M     Berryville by
+                                          Guerrillas          August 19     1864
+Skinner, Irwin M., Private        G     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Smith, Joseph W., Private         H     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Smith, Stephen, Private           B     Brandy Station        October 11    1863
+Spencer, Lucien H., Private       A     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Sprague, Almerin, Private         H     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Stewart, Harrison C., Private     E     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Taggart, Robert G., Private       H     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Taylor, David P., Corporal        I     By Accident           March 27      1863
+Tenney, Wayland, Corporal         H     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Todd, Andrew, Private             F     Newtown               November 12   1864
+Tuller, Calvin, H., Private       H     Shepherdstown         August 25     1864
+Van Bree, Garrett, Private        L     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Vicory, William L., Private       M     Smithfield            August 29     1864
+Warner, Oliver M., Private        C     Berryville by
+                                          Guerrillas          August 19     1864
+Warren, Milan S., Private         K     Newby's Crossroads    July 24       1863
+Watkins, Jarius, Corporal         M     Wilderness            May 6         1864
+Wire, George, Private             M     Berryville by
+                                          Guerrillas          August 19     1864
+Whirehead, Richard H., Sergeant   A     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Withington, Hiram A., Corporal    M     Berryville by
+                                          Guerrillas          August 19     1864
+Wixsom, George, Private           I     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Wood, Edwin W., Sergeant          A     Shepherdstown         August 25     1864
+Wood, Fletcher, Sergeant          A     Cedar Creek           October 19    1864
+Wright, Francis M., Corporal      M     Unknown               Died September
+                                                              10            1864
+Yoek, George, Private             E     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+
+
+SIXTH MICHIGAN CAVALRY
+
+Andrus, James L., Sergeant        H     Smithfield            August 29     1864
+Avery, Marvin E., Sergeant        E     Trevilian Station     June 12       1864
+Bacon, Truman J., Private         F     Falling Waters        June 14       1863
+Barber, George, Private           E     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Barnes, Augustus M., Private      D     On Sultana Explosion  April 26      1865
+Barnum, Andrew, Private           A     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Bass, Nathan B., Private          E     Woodstock             October 8     1864
+Batson, Charles, Private          B     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Beckwith, George, Private         C     Trevilian Station     June 12       1864
+Bolza, Charles E., Lieutenant     B     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Bowman, Lewis, Private            B     Battle Mountain       July 24       1863
+Briggs, George, Private           F     Cedar Creek           October 19    1864
+Brockway, William F., Corporal    H     Cedar Creek           October 19    1864
+Brockway, William M., Private     H     Rapidan River         September 16  1863
+Brown, George F., Private         I     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Brown, James W., Sergeant         E     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Brownell, George H., Private      K     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Buck, Charles, H., Private        D     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Burden, John, Private             B     Cedar Creek           October 19    1864
+Burns, James, Private             D     Trevilian Station     June 12       1864
+Butler, Edward, Private           M     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Campbell, Duncan, Private         M     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Campbell, William P., Private     C     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Carey, Seth, Corporal             E     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Curliss, William, Private         G     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Chandler, George B., Private      D     Somerville Ford       September 16  1863
+Chase, Albert, Teamster           L     Somerville Ford       September 16  1863
+Clark, George, Corporal           G     Boonesborough         July 11       1863
+Clark, Joshua P., Private         F     Muddy Branch          July 21       1864
+Cole, Osmer F., Captain           G     By Indians            August 31     1865
+Coon, Alexander H., Private       A     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Cox, Charles W., Private          C     Hunterstown           July 2        1863
+Cranston, Thomas C., Private      C     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Cryderman, John, Private          E     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Daily, William H., Sergeant       D     Hanovertown           May 27        1864
+Day, John, Private                F     Washington            April 27      1865
+Decker, Almeron, Private          E     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Dexter, Dallas, Private           M     Waterford             August 8      1863
+Dixon, William G., Private        C     Buckland Mills        October 19    1863
+Dudley, Jerry, Private,           I     Cedar Creek           October 19    1864
+Earl, Benjamin F., Private        I     Somerville Ford       September 16  1863
+Edie, Thomas A., Lieutenant       A     Meadow Bridge         May 12        1864
+Edwards, William H., Private      E     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Eldridge, Marvin J., Private      C     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Elmore, Byron A., Private         B     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Fairbanks, Forrest, Private       D     Trevilian Station     June 12       1864
+Farrell, Thomas, Private          M     Harper's Ferry        August 17     1863
+Fay, George W., Private           H     Trevilian Station     June 12       1864
+Finney, Solon H., Lieutenant      E     Beaver Mills          April 4       1865
+Foe, James, Private               C     Hatcher's Mills       April 4       1865
+Foote, Martin W., Private         C     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Francisco, James K., Sergeant     K     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Galusha, Sears E., Corporal       G     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Gooch, Horace N., Private         B     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Griffith, Gilbert D., Private     B     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Gross, Charles H., Private        M     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Hanna, John, Private              A     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Harding, Ira C., Private          D     Somerville Ford       September 16  1863
+Harrison, Henry M., Private       E     High Bridge           April 6       1865
+Hart, Horace, Corporal            D     Hanover               June 30       1863
+Hawkins, Oscar J., Private        K     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Hayes, William O., Private        C     By Indians            September 13  1865
+House, Martin, Private            M     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Hughson, Franklin, Private        K     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Hulet, James H., Private          K     On Sultana Explosion  April 26      1865
+Hutchinson, Miles E., Private     E     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Ingersoll, George B. W., Sergeant G     Shepherdstown         August 28     1864
+Inman, Elisha, Private            K     By Guerrillas         December 4    1864
+Jewell, Leander, Sergeant         A     Hanovertown           May 27        1864
+Jewett, Aaron C., Acting Adjutant       Williamsport          July 6        1863
+Johnson, Warren E., Private       I     Seneca                June 11       1863
+Johnson, William W., Private      M     Unknown               Died October
+                                                              11            1864
+Jolly, Toussaint, Private         I     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Jones, Levi F., Private           D     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Kelsey, Ira, Private              K     Newby's Crossroads    July 24       1863
+Kilbourn, Joseph, Private         C     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Kirkby, Henry, Private            I     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Krauss, Charles C., Private       A     Hunterstown           July 2        1863
+Larime, Joseph, Private           C     Wilderness            May 6         1864
+Livingston, Albert, Private       C     Thornton Gap          July 24       1863
+Livingston, Monroe, Private       F     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Lorsey, Charles, Private          B     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Lyons, James, Private             F     Unknown               July 30       1864
+McClure, Alexander, Private       C     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+McDonald, Jeremiah, Private       F     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+McLean, Peter, Corporal           G     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Martin, Alonzo R., Private        B     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Mathers, James, Captain           L     Winchester            August 11     1864
+Mayfield, Oakland W., Private     B     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Morre, Ezra P., Private           A     Trevilian Station     June 12       1864
+Mosher, Merritt, Corporal         A     Wilderness            May 6         1864
+Morrison, Edwin M., Private       K     Wilderness            May 6         1864
+Moulthrop, Albert, Private        I     Tom's Brook           October 9     1864
+Neal, Flavius J., Private         B     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Nellins, John, Private            H     Winchester            November 18   1864
+Onweller, William, Private        B     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Otis, Albert, Private             D     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Patten, George T., Sergeant       B     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Pelton, Francis, Private          B     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Perkins, William, Private         E     Beaver Pond Mills     April 4       1865
+Pixley, Austin, Private           A     Drowned               June 15       1864
+Potter, Harvey B., Sergeant       B     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Powers, Wesley, Private           I     Seneca                June 11       1863
+Pray, Stephen, Private            C     Trevilian Station     June 12       1864
+Provin, James J., Private         M     Smithfield            February 5    1864
+Rappelye, Mortimer, Sergeant      C     Hanovertown           May 27        1864
+Rodder, John, Private             I     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Richardson, Francis D., Private   F     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Rider, Carlos, Corporal           D     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Rogers, Frederick V., Private     G     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Rogers, Remus, Private            B     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Roney, Charles E., Private        C     Dinwiddie Courthouse  April 9       1865
+Rossell, Abram, Private           D     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Royce, David G., Captain          D     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Ruckel, George, Private           I     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Sliter, Josiah T., Private        B     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Smith, Jonathan W., Private       K     Newby's Crossroads    July 24       1863
+Soule, John W., Corporal          D     Boonesborough         July 8        1863
+Stafford, Ananias, Private        D     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Stanton, Andrew, Private          K     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Stowe, Stephen L., Sergeant       B     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Streeter, Seth, Private           H     Unknown               Died August 2 1863
+Sweet, Lorenzo D., Private        I     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Telling, George, Corporal         D     Boonesborough         July 8        1863
+Trager, George, Private           F     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Tucker, Ephraim, Private          D     Cedar Creek           October 19    1864
+Tucker, Harvey, Sergeant          C     Wilderness            May 6         1864
+Tuttle, Milo, Private             M     Waterford             August 8      1863
+Von Helmerich, Frederick, Private I     Seneca                June 11       1863
+Wadeweitz, Frederick, Private     I     Meadow Bridge         May 12        1864
+Ward, Erastus E., Private         F     Five Forks            April 1       1865
+Weber, Peter A., Captain          B     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Whalen, David, Private            I     Seneca                June 11       1863
+Wheaton, Henry F., Private        H     Unknown               February 2    1865
+White, William C., Private        D     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Wightman, George H., Sergeant     L     Unknown               Died September
+                                                              1             1864
+Williams, Edward L., Sergeant     I     Cedar Creek           October 19    1864
+Williams, John D., Corporal       I     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Winters, John, Private            H     Accident              July 28       1864
+Yax, John, Corporal               C     Cold Harbor           June 1        1864
+Yeoman, Lewis H., Private         E     Brandy Station        October 11    1863
+
+
+SEVENTH MICHIGAN CAVALRY
+
+Adams, Oscar H., Corporal         A     Trevilian Station     June 12       1864
+Adams, William H., Private        D     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Armstrong, Harrison, Private      F     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Baker, George, Private            B     Killed by Indians     August 5      1865
+Bedel, Harlin, Corporal           F     Five Forks            April 1       1865
+Bedel, James T., Private          F     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Bouchard (Bershall), Eli, Private K     Front Royal           August 16     1864
+Brewer, Melvin, Lieutenant Colonel      Winchester            September 19  1864
+Brickwell, Edward J., Private     A     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Brownell, Horace R., Private      A     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Bush, Christian, Corporal         D     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Bush, Frederick, Corporal         D     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Carver, Lucius, Lieutenant        M     Front Royal           August 16     1864
+Chapman, Frank, Private           A     Richmond              March 1       1864
+Cheesman, Jeremiah, Private       F     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Church, Benjamin, Sergeant        C     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Churchill, Alfred W., Corporal    G     Cedar Creek           October 19    1864
+Clark, Edgar A., Private          A     By Accident           July 5        1865
+Clark, Jonas, Private             K     Richmond              March 1       1864
+Cochran, Harlan B., Sergeant      F     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Cochran, William J., Corporal     I     Front Royal           August 16     1864
+Campau, Peter, Private            D     Boonesborough         July          1863
+Cook, Elliott A., Sergeant        C     Robinson River        October 8     1863
+Cooper, Eugene, Private           F     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Cornell, Llewellyn C., Private    B     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Crampton, P. H., Private          G     Hagarstown            July 6        1863
+Croman, William, Private          E     Brandy Station        October 11    1863
+Dann, Daniel, Private             K     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Diehl, Henry, Private             C     Salem Church          June 2        1864
+Delamater, Martin R., Corporal    G     Cold Harbor           June 1        1864
+Dumphrey, Edwin, Sergeant         A     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Edwards, William, Private         C     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Filbern, Owen, Private            I     Buckland Mills        October 19    1863
+Finch, Robert, Private            E     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Firman, Josiah B., Corporal       H     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Fisher, Mathias, Bugler           B     Berryville            September 4   1864
+Fordham, Albert, Corporal         D     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Fox, William H., Corporal         M     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Granger, Henry W., Major                Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Guio, Henry, Corporal             F     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Haines, Henry, Private            D     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Hall (Hull), William, Private     M     Buckland Mills        October 19    1863
+Hamel, Harrison, Private          K     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Haskins, James, Sergeant          B     Duck Pond Mills       April 3       1865
+Hassart, Andrew, Private          B     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Hasty, Robert, Private            I     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Heinck, John, Saddler             A     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Hoag, Robert, Private             F     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Hopkins, Horace, Private          E     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+House, Barnum B., Private         E     Old Church            May 23        1864
+Jackson, Orlando D., Private      D     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Jessup, Charles H., Private       F     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Karcher, Jehial, Private          D     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Keller, Henry H., Private         B     Todd's Tavern         May 7         1864
+Kisner, Samuel, Private           C     By Accident           July 18       1863
+Koster, Frederick, Private        H     Cedar Creek           October 19    1864
+Laird, William J., Sergeant       B     Cedar Creek           October 19    1864
+Lake, John W., Private            A     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Larrue, Hiram J., Private         B     By Guerrillas         March 28      1864
+Long, Edward, Private             B     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Lundy, George W., Private         H     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+McClure, Ralph, Private           H     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+McComber, William, Private        C     Cold Harbor           June 4        1864
+McDonald, John J., Sergeant       C     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+McLaine, Alexander, Private       E     Marselas              May 22        1863
+Martin, Francis D., Private       H     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Matchett, Noel, Private           A     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Mead, Joseph L., Lieutenant       L     Smithfield            August 29     1864
+Mercer, Thomas, Private           F     Smithfield            August 29     1864
+Milbourn, John L., Corporal       D     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Miller, Jacob L., Private         C     Unknown               Died June 21  1864
+Mills, Harry, Private             H     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Miner, Charles E., Sergeant       F     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Moll, Cornelius, Private          F     White Ford            September 22  1863
+Motley, Thomas, Private           G     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Nay, Harmon, Private              E     Hagarstown            July 6        1863
+Nichols, William H., Private      H     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Nolan, Arthur D., Sergeant        I     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+O'Brien, William H., Sergeant     A     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Olin, Oscar O., Private           M     Cedar Creek           October 19    1864
+Page, Truman, Bugler              F     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Parks, Allen C., Private          A     Cedar Creek           October 19    1864
+Paule, Jacob, Sergeant            F     Yellow Tavern         May 11        1864
+Perkins, Myron H., Sergeant       B     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+Ploof, Dewitt C., Private         K     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Pomeroy, David H., Private        L     Trumble Run           June 9        1864
+Ralph, Oscar S., Corporal         F     Falling Waters        July 14       1863
+Richards, William H., Private     H     Emmittsburg           July 4        1863
+Robinson, James B., Teamster      E     Tom's Brook           October 9     1864
+Shafer, Charles F., Private       A     Winchester            September 19  1864
+Smith, Alonzo, Private            C     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Smith, Eli, Private               K     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Smith, Perry W., Private          H     Hagarstown            July 13       1863
+Spear, Truman, Private            G     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Stearns, William A., Sergeant     B     Cold Harbor           June 1        1864
+Stephens, Charles, Private        K     Front Royal           August 16     1864
+Taber, Winfield S., Sergeant      M     Culpeper              September 13  1863
+Thompson, Henry, Private          D     Smithfield            August 29     1864
+Treat, Gordon, Private            K     Front Royal           August 16     1864
+Vancourse, Henry, Private         K     Front Royal           August 16     1864
+Van Duzer, Charles E., Private    M     Unknown               September     1864
+Van Ness, George E., Corporal     M     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Walters, Nelson, Private          A     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Whittaker, William S., Private    B     Trevilian Station     June 11       1864
+Wilcox, Charles, Corporal         A     Gettysburg            July 3        1863
+Williams, Squire, Corporal        I     Haw's Shop            May 28        1864
+
+   TOTAL NUMBER KILLED IN ACTION
+
+   First Michigan Cavalry                         157
+   Fifth Michigan Cavalry                         144
+   Sixth Michigan Cavalry                         141
+   Seventh Michigan Cavalry                       106
+                                                  ---
+           Total                                  548
+
+
+FOOTNOTES:
+
+[Footnote 1: Quoted from "Michigan in the War."]
+
+[Footnote 2: The original roster of the regiment may be found in
+appendix "A" to this volume.]
+
+[Footnote 3: Grand Rapids, Michigan, so named on account of its location
+in the heart of the valley of Grand river. Also known as the "Furniture
+City," referring to its chief industry.]
+
+[Footnote 4: Robert Williams, a Virginian, grandson of James Williams,
+of the Virginia line in the Revolution. He married the widow of Stephen
+A. Douglas.]
+
+[Footnote 5: Third Michigan infantry. It served three years, and was
+then reorganized as the "New Third."]
+
+[Footnote 6: Since the above was written I have become satisfied that
+this man was really taken prisoner and that he died as such in the
+Confederate prison at Andersonville. His name appears on one of the
+markers in the national cemetery there.]
+
+[Footnote 7: September, 1907.]
+
+[Footnote 8: Official Records, Series 1, Vol. XXVII, Part III, page
+276.]
+
+[Footnote 9: The Michigan cavalry brigade was the outgrowth of the
+reorganization of the Federal cavalry that followed Lee's invasion of
+the North and Hooker's consequent movement into Maryland. It consisted
+originally, as has been shown, of three regiments--the Fifth, Sixth and
+Seventh. They were all organized in 1862, spent the winter of 1862-63 in
+camp on Meridian and Capitol Hills, Washington, D. C., and during the
+spring months of the latter year, were engaged in doing outpost duty in
+Fairfax County, Va., within the defenses of Washington. They were,
+therefore, in the language of another, "fresh from pastures green" when
+General Hooker, en route to Maryland in June, 1863, picked them up in
+passing and made them a part of that grand Army of the Potomac which, on
+the battle-field of Gettysburg, won a renown as lasting as history
+itself.
+
+The commanding officer was Brigadier General J.T. Copeland, a Michigan
+man, promoted from the colonelcy of the Fifth. The battalion commanders
+were, respectively, Colonels Russell A. Alger, George Gray and William
+D. Mann. The first had seen service in the Second Michigan as captain
+and major, under Colonels Gordon Granger and P.H. Sheridan; the last in
+the First Michigan, under Brodhead and Town. Colonel Gray was appointed
+from civil life, and was having his first experience of "war's rude
+alarums."]
+
+[Footnote 10: Custer in his report mistook the York for the Hanover
+road.]
+
+[Footnote 11: General Custer mistook the Low Dutch for the Oxford road.]
+
+[Footnote 12: A letter from General Gregg to the writer says: "There is
+no conflict between your recollection and mine as to the events of that
+day."--J.H.K.]
+
+[Footnote 13: A possible solution of this difficulty has come to my
+mind. It is this. That Custer originally wrote "1 o'clock" and that in
+copying the "1" and the "o" were mistaken for "10," and o'clock
+added--J.H.K.]
+
+[Footnote 14: In this connection it may be stated that Colonel Fox's
+history of the casualties in the war shows that there were 260 cavalry
+regiments in the service of the Union. Of these, the First Michigan lost
+the largest number of men killed in action of all save one--the First
+Maine. In percentage of killed, in proportion to numbers the Fifth and
+Sixth Michigan rank all the rest, not excepting the two first named, and
+it must be remembered that the Fifth and Sixth went out in 1862 and did
+their first fighting in the Gettysburg campaign. They stand third and
+fourth in the number killed, being ranked in that respect by the First
+Maine and First Michigan alone. The four regiments in the Michigan
+brigade during their terms of service lost twenty-three officers and 328
+men killed; eight officers and 111 men died of wounds; nine officers and
+991 men died of disease--a grand total of 1470 officers and men who gave
+up their lives during those four years of war.--J.H.K.]
+
+[Footnote 15: It may be proper to state that during the Gettysburg
+campaign the Michigan brigade lost thirty officers killed and wounded,
+whose names are here given.
+
+KILLED
+
+First Michigan--Capt. W.R. Elliott, Capt. C.J. Snyder, Lieut. J.S.
+McElhenny--3.
+
+Fifth Michigan--Major N.H. Ferry--1.
+
+Sixth Michigan--Major P.A. Weber, Capt. D.G. Royce, Lieut. C.E. Bolza,
+Acting Adjutant A.C. Jewett--4.
+
+WOUNDED
+
+First Michigan--Capt. D.W. Clemmer, Lieut. E.F. Baker, Capt. A.W.
+Duggan, Capt. George W. Alexander, Capt. H.E. Hascall, Capt. W.M.
+Heazlett, Capt. G.R. Maxwell, Lieut. R.N. Van Atter--8.
+
+Fifth Michigan--Col. R.A. Alger, Lieut. Col. E. Gould, Lieut. T. Dean,
+Lieut. G.N. Dutcher--4.
+
+Sixth Michigan--Lieut. George W. Crawford; Capt. H.E. Thompson, Capt. J.
+H. Kidd, Lieut. E. Potter, Lieut. S. Shipman--5.
+
+Seventh Michigan--Lieut. J.G. Birney, Lieut. J.L. Carpenter, Lieut. E.
+Gray, Lieut. C. Griffith, Capt. Alex. Walker--5.]
+
+[Footnote 16: Brigadier General Henry E. Davies, formerly colonel Second
+New York cavalry, assigned as permanent successor of Farnsworth, killed
+at Gettysburg.]
+
+[Footnote 17: Attached to the Michigan brigade.]
+
+[Footnote 18: Rosser, Young and Gordon.]
+
+[Footnote 19: Since reporting for duty, October 12, I had been in
+command of the regiment.]
+
+[Footnote 20: Campaigns of Stuart's Cavalry.]
+
+[Footnote 21: Fitzhugh Lee was Custer's instructor in West Point before
+the war broke out.]
+
+[Footnote 22: Kilpatrick's Report, Official Records, series I. vol.
+XXXIII. p. 133.]
+
+[Footnote 23: "Unless the separate commands in an expedition of this
+nature are very prompt in movement, and each equal to overcoming at once
+any obstacle it may meet combinations rarely work out as
+expected."--Personal Memoirs of P.H. Sheridan, vol. I, p. 373.]
+
+[Footnote 24: A small stream crossing the turnpike and after which the
+historical pike was named.]
+
+[Footnote 25: On page 813, Vol. XXXVI, Series I, Part 1, of the War
+Records, in the report of General Merritt appears the following: "A
+charge made, mounted, by one regiment of the First brigade, (the Fifth
+Michigan)." The words in parenthesis should be the First Michigan. It is
+a pity that the official records should thus falsify history.]
+
+[Footnote 26: I am not positive that these were the particular tunes the
+bands played.]
+
+[Footnote 27: Personal Memoirs of P.H. Sheridan, Vol. I: page 417. Also
+Records, Series I, Vol. XXXVI, part 1.]
+
+[Footnote 28: Taken from the official records in the office of the
+adjutant general of Michigan, Lansing, Michigan.]
+
+[Footnote 29: Taken from the official records in the office of the
+adjutant general of Michigan, Lansing, Michigan.]
+
+[Footnote 30: Official Records, Series I, Vol. XXXVI, part I, page 851.]
+
+[Footnote 31: Official Records, Series I, Vol. XXXVI, part I, page 810.]
+
+[Footnote 32:
+
+   "Headquarters 1st Brig. 1st Div. Cavalry Corps,
+   June 3, 1864.
+
+   To His Excellency
+   Governor Blair,
+
+I most cheerfully and earnestly recommend that the foregoing petition
+may be granted. Major Kidd has commanded his regiment for several
+months. He has distinguished himself in nearly all of the late severe
+engagements of the corps. Michigan cannot boast of a more gallant or
+efficient officer than Major Kidd, and I am confident that his
+appointment as colonel of the 6th would not only produce entire
+satisfaction in his regiment, but would serve to increase the already
+high but well earned fame of the Michigan Cavalry Brigade."
+
+   "Very respectfully, etc.,
+   G.A. CUSTER,
+   Brig. Gen'l Comdg."]
+
+[Footnote 33: The title given to the department over which Sheridan was
+to have supreme command, and which included West Virginia.]
+
+[Footnote 34: Torbert had been created "chief of cavalry," and Merritt
+assigned to command of the First division. Colonel Charles R. Lowell,
+Second Massachusetts cavalry succeeded Merritt in command of the Reserve
+brigade.]
+
+[Footnote 35: Attached temporarily to the Michigan brigade.]
+
+[Footnote 36: Second division of cavalry from West Virginia, General
+W.W. Averell.]
+
+[Footnote 37: Written in 1886.]
+
+[Footnote 38: The only order I had received at the time was to support
+the picket line with the entire brigade. See General Merritt's report,
+Official records, Vol. XLIII, series I, part I, page 449.]
+
+[Footnote 39: The Fifth United States cavalry, General Merritt's escort.
+General Merritt's report.]
+
+[Footnote 40: General Sheridan's report states that it was Getty's
+division of the Sixth corps only that was in this position when he came
+up--that the other divisions were farther to the rear but were brought
+up to the alignment.
+
+"On arriving at the front, I found Merritt's and Custer's divisions of
+cavalry, * * * and Getty's division of the Sixth corps opposing the
+enemy. I suggested to General Wright that we would fight on Getty's
+line, and that the remaining two divisions of the Sixth corps, which
+were to the right and rear about two miles, should be ordered up, * *
+before the enemy attacked Getty."--Sheridan's report, Records, Vol.
+XLIII, part I, page 53.]
+
+[Footnote 41: "The First brigade, in column of Regiments in line, moved
+forward like an immense wave, slowly at first, but gaining strength and
+speed as it progressed, overwhelmed a battery and its supports amidst a
+devastating shower of canister and a deadly fire of musketry from part
+of Kershaw's division, at short range from a heavy wood to our left.
+Never has the mettle of the division been put to a severer test than at
+this time, and never did it stand the test better. The charge was made
+on an enemy well formed and prepared to receive it with guns
+double-shotted with canister."--General Merritt's official report,
+Records, Vol. XLIII, Part I, page 450.]
+
+[Footnote 42: Records, Series I, Vol. XLIII, part I, page 136.]
+
+[Footnote 43: Records. Series I, Vol. XLIII, part I. pages 136-37.]
+
+[Footnote 44: Records. Series I, Vol. XLIII, part I. page 453.]
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Personal Recollections of a Cavalryman, by
+J. H. (James Harvey) Kidd
+
+*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK RECOLLECTIONS OF A CAVALRYMAN ***
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