From the diary of Osborn H. Oldroyd
MAY 29TH.–”The early bird catches the worm.” We tried the truth of that adage this morning, but failed to make the catch. A few graybacks were seen afar off, but we failed to get within range of them. Where, O where, is General Johnston and the grand army he was to bring against us ? We have looked for him in vain. I have the utmost confidence in Grant’s judgment and the prestige of his army which has never yet known defeat, but I confess, till now, I have been afraid of some attack in our rear. And why such a thing does not occur is a mystery to me–at least an attempt at it. Day by day Grant is intrenching and pushing nearer to the enemy’s works, planting heavy guns and receiving fresh troops, so the opportunity for a saving stroke by the enemy is fast disappearing.
Camped again at dark, within two miles of Mechanicsville, through which we passed, finding all quiet after our cavalry had driven a few rebs beyond the town.