19th. Played some at chess and read a little in Shakespeare. Eyes quite weak. Letters from home and Floy. Quiet. Heavy firing in direction of Petersburg. Rained almost all day.

Decatur, Ga., July 19, 1864.

To-night we are in Decatur, six miles from Atlanta. The Rebels were yet in Atlanta this morning, for they ran a train to this burg this morning, but they may now be gone. Our line of battle crosses the railroad nearly at right angles, facing Atlanta. I think the 23d Corps has swung around in front of us, and the 16th Corps is now on our left. Our cavalry had some fighting after 1 p.m. today. A citizen says there was nearly 4,500 Rebel cavalry here. A small portion of our mounted forces made a half-charge on the Johnnies just this side of town, and the Rebels stampeded. They knew we had a large force, and, of course, could not tell just what number was coming on them. They broke down every fence in town and ran over everything but the houses in their mad panic to get away. Our men, as usual, all stopped in town to flank the onions, potatoes, chickens and sundries, in which they were busily engaged when the Rebels, who had rallied and got a battery in position, opened right lively. Our men drove them away, and then all hands went to foraging again. To-morrow night, I think, will give us Atlanta, or there will be a fair start for a new graveyard near the town. I hear no fighting on the right. We have passed over the same miserable looking country to-day. I caught a small scorpion to-day, also a reddish brown bug not quite as large as a thrush, and as savage as a mad rat. Wish I could preserve some of these bugs and things; I know you’d like ’em

JULY 19th.—A steady, gentle rain from 8 A.M. till 4 P.M.

A dispatch from Gen. Hood, who relieves Gen. Johnston, was received to-day. It was in cipher, and I did not learn the contents.

I strove in vain to-day to buy a few cabbage seed!

The following is a copy of a letter received from Gen. Lee, his locality not indicated, but from the date, he must be near the city:

“HEADQUARTERS, ARMY NORTHERN VIRGINIA,
“17th July, 1864.

“HON. SECRETARY OF WAR, RICHMOND.
———“SIR:—I have received a dispatch from Gen. Early, dated at Leesburg on the 15th inst. On the 8th he crossed South Mountain, leaving Sigel at Maryland Heights. On the 9th he reached Frederick, and in the afternoon attacked and routed the enemy, ten thousand strong, under Wallace, at Monocacy Junction. The next day he moved on Washington, and arrived in front of the fortifications around that city on the 11th. The defenses were found very strong, and were not attacked. After a reconnoissance on the night of the 12th, he withdrew, and crossed the Potomac at White’s Ford on the 14th, bringing off everything safely and in good order. He reports the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad to have been cut in several places, and severely damaged. The bridges over Gunpowder River, Northern Central and Philadelphia Railroads were burned, and the connection between Washington and Baltimore cut by Johnson’s cavalry. The 6th corps (Federal) had arrived at Washington, and it was reported that other parts of Grant’s army had reached there, but of the latter he was not certain. Hunter had passed Williamsport, and was moving toward Frederick. Gen. Early states that his loss was light.
————————————“I am, with great respect,
—————————————————“Your obed’t servant.”

(Not signed.)

Custis walked with Lieut. Bell last evening a mile from Hanover Junction to the battle-field of last month (just a month ago), and beheld some of the enemy still unburied! They fell very near our breastworks.

July 19th. This hot morning finds us at Snicker’s Gap. Everything quiet. The enemy on one side of the river and we the other. Both armies where we see one another. Later in the day batteries were put in position on both sides, and occasionally open fire on one another. One shell from the enemy seemed to go farther than any other, as I saw it explode in the ranks of the 6th Corps. Several were wounded. They were over a hill and supposed to be out of range of the enemy. The batteries in position make us feel a little uneasy. Don’t know when a shell may come over our way, for we are in plain sight of the enemy. Night coming on finds us at Snicker’s Gap. Hope for a quiet night, a good rest, and sleep.

July, Tuesday 19, 1864

A bright and beautiful morning—my heart seems as light and happy as the sunshine is lovely. I am perfectly in love with this charming family. Mrs. Reynolds is so warm hearted and good, though our acquaintance has been so short, it seems we have always been friends, and Miss Lou, ah! how can I express the admiration I have for her, how beautiful, how lovely she is. I have never, since the days of my childhood, met with any Ladie I am so completely in love with—how my heart aches for a friend, just as Miss Lou is—if I only could gain her confidence. There is something about her that reminds me of my dear, dear Mother. We have spent a delightful day. Mrs. James Young called to see us, she sings exquisitely. Mrs. Judivron called also. We all went bathing again. Therese progresses rapidly, though Hal and I are still great cowards. Lou and I had a game of Chess after tea. I cannot but be unhappy about not being at Bro. I know I will be censured by all parties—

Tuesday, 19th–It is the same thing over and over. My fever is broken now and I am getting better. I just learned that there are three others of my company here in the hospital, all in different wards. They are Lieutenant Alfred Carey, Thomas R. McConnoll and John Zitler, all wounded on the skirmish line on June 15th at Noon-day creek at the foot of Kenesaw mountain.

18th. Relieved the 1st N. H. on picket near Cox’s Mills. Major Nettleton, while relieving pickets, had horse shot. Lt. 1st N. H. killed by his side. Guerrilas in ambush. Hdqrs. in a pleasant shady yard.

July 18th. Up and early on the march this fine morning. Pushing on to the south in the direction of Snicker’s Gap, Blue Ridge Mountains, eighteen miles south of Harper’s Ferry. We cannot tell what an hour may bring forth. As we approach Snicker’s Gap we came to a halt. Here we meet a part of the 6th Corps, Army of the Potomac, and a division under Colonel Mulligan, the Colonel of the 23d Illinois Regiment. After a few hours’ halt up the side of the mountains came orders to advance slowly through Snicker’s Gap. Then proceeded slowly down the west side of the mountains on towards the Shenandoah River. A battle seems to be imminent. Ordered to wade the river. At that point the river was waist deep. When over, a line was quickly formed. Ordered to lie down, our clothes being wet. Before our division was all over, the enemy made a furious attack on us from the woods, in our front and on our right. Our regiment had the extreme right of the line. We fought them desperately and were losing many of our boys. We held on as we expected help from the 6th Corps and Mulligan’s division, which did not come. We saw plainly the enemy massing a large force on our right, as our regiment was holding that point. Our Colonel saw the dangerous position that we were trying to hold and no prospect of help, ordered left face, and to re-cross the river under a galling fire of musketry and cannon. It was a fearful thing to re-cross that river, as it was deep in places. Some of our boys who were wounded, drowned as they attempted to re-cross before reaching the ford, or the place where we crossed. In this battle it was claimed the rebs used explosive bullets on us. The opposite bank where I crossed was about eight feet high, very slippery, made so by the men who had climbed up before me. As I made my way almost to the top of the bank, pulling myself up by the bushes, an explosive bullet struck near me. The report and the fire from it caused me to loose my hold on the bushes and slip down the bank into the river. At that time I thought I was a goner. Soaking wet, I made another attempt to reach the top of the bank and was successful.

We were then forced to ascend through a large open field under fire. Shot and shell flew furiously. General Wright finally ordered a battery into position to protect us. As seen by the men in the ranks, it was strange that a small force was ordered over that river to cope with Early’s force, and the 6th Corps near by.

Camp tonight at Snicker’s Gap with the 6th Corps. Discussed the events of the day. Discouraged and mad, saying hard things about General Wright, Commander of the 6th Corps. Some things are hard to understand in the life of a soldier.

July 18.—Since the last note in my diary we have been pursuing our usual course. The tenor of our way is singularly rough and uneven, marked by the sound of cannon, the marching of troops, and all the paraphernalia of grim-visaged war; but we still visit our friends and relatives, and have our pleasant social and family meetings, as though we were at peace with all the world. The theme of every tongue is our army in Maryland. What is it doing? What will be the result of the venture? The last accounts are from the Washington papers. Early, they say, is before Washington, throwing in shells, having cut the railroads and burnt the bridges. We are of course all anxiety, and rumour is busier than ever. The army, it is said, has driven innumerable horses, beeves, etc., into Virginia. I trust so; it is surmised that to supply the commissariat is the chief object of the trip. Grant still before Petersburg, sending transports, etc., with troops to defend Washington.

Near Stone Mountain, July 18, 1864.

Osterhaus (or his division, for I hear that he resigned and yesterday started for the North, en route for Mexico, where he formerly resided, and that he intends entering the Mexican Army to fight “Johnny Crapeau”) was ahead to-day, and only lost a dozen or 50 men. Our brigade has been train guard, and we did not get into camp until 11 p.m. This night marching hurts us more than the hottest day marching. We camp to-night near Stone Mountain, and the depot of the same name 16 miles from Atlanta. It is evident to me that the Army of the Tennessee is doing the “flanking them out” this time. The 1st Division cut the railroad effectually. A train came from the East while they were at it, but discovering the smoke, reversed the engine and escaped. The 17th Corps I hear is close behind us protecting the commissary trains and forming our rear guard.

JULY 18th.—Clear and dry.

It is believed that a battery sent down opposite to Harrison’s Bar in the James River sank two of the enemy’s transports, Saturday, and drove back five others to Grant.

It is rumored that Gen. Johnston has been relieved at Atlanta, and Lieut.-Gen. Hood placed in command. I doubt.

It is said Mr. Trenholm, firm of Fraser, Trenholm d Co., bankers, Charleston, has been appointed Secretary of the Treasury. Mr. Seddon holds on to the office he occupies.

A letter from Gen. Lee (“Headquarters Army Northern Virginia”) says Gen. Early has recrossed the Potomac, and is at Leesburg, safe,—I hope with his captured supplies.

The following is a synopsis of Gen. Kirby Smith’s brilliant campaign of 1864; official report. Enemy’s losses.

In Louisiana, 5000 killed and wounded, 4000 prisoners, 21 pieces artillery, 200 wagons, 1 gun-boat, 3 transports.

In Arkansas, 1400 killed, 2000 wounded, 1500 prisoners, 13 pieces of artillery, 900 wagons,

Confederate losses, 3000 killed, wounded, and missing.

Enemy’s losses, 14,000.

Confederate strength, 15,000.

Enemy’s strength, 47,000.

In Georgia, 35,000. In Arkansas, 12,000.

July, Monday 18, 1864

I was very unhappy about no conveyance to go out to Bro’s, sitting in the Parlor after breakfast, when our new made friend Mrs. Reynolds came in for Hal, Therese and myself to go out and spend a few days with her—I accepted, Hal, after we came to our room, did not seem to like it, though I had no idea of anything of the kind when in Mrs. R. company. Tate and Nannie both seemed distressed at Hal’s departure—censured me for accepting the invitation. I can have no happiness, it seems, without so much unhappiness.

We arrived at Col. Young’s about 11 o’c. Miss Lou, who is one of the sweetest ladies I ever met, Miss Paine and Col. Young greeted us cordially, and a happy day the rest was to me, Late in the evening we all went down to the Pond, went in bathing, and had a gay time, though some redicilous scenes among the beginers . Therese has more confidence than Hal or I, therefore gets along better. I must confess I am really a coward in Water—

Monday, 18th–The weather is quite pleasant. There is nothing of any importance. All is quiet.

17th. Spent the day very quietly in camp, over Independents and other papers. Wrote home and to Lucy Randall Campbell.

July 17th. Sunday morning. Late last night we were ordered to march. Estimated we marched about five miles, when we came to a halt in a wooded field. Fine large trees. During the night we heard the rattling of the wheels of artillery and wagons, being driven very rapid, going south. This morning report reached us that it was the enemy’s guns and wagons. No doubt there is hard work before us. Don’t just know our present location except that we are somewhere in the Loudon Valley, Virginia. Orders for Sunday morning inspection. It won’t be a very clean one. After that duty was performed we rested and slept. Large stacks of grain were burned in this vicinity to prevent the enemy from getting. It made a hot fire and a great loss. It will no doubt cause much suffering among the people. Women and children in these parts must suffer by the war which is a cruel thing. I am sorry for them. As soon as they hear the reports of the guns, they take to the cellars for protection. Shot and shell go through many houses that are in range of the guns. I have seen many houses that were damaged by the field guns. This Sunday night finds us in the woods, cool and good air, while the sun was red hot, out in the open.

July, Sunday 17, 1864

All ready for breakfast, one of the warmest mornings we have had. Therese came over after breakfast to see if some of us would not go to Artesia on the train, to assist in attending to the wounded Soldiers. I fixed up my baskett , went by for Therese & her Sister, we met the other Ladies at the Depot, arrived at Artesia, did not wait long for the train, first two were loaded with Soldiers going to Demopolis to relieve Talagega of the raid not threatening it. Next two trains were loaded with our wounded, and oh! my heart ached to see so much suffering, we soothed and gave them every thing they wanted, returned to Columbus on the eve train. Col. Crosslin of 7th. Ky was aboard, destined for Columbus, badly wounded. We had a very disagreeable, warm trip, but a consolation in knowing we had soothed our suffering Soldiers. Saw Capt. Mason at Artesia, was delighted of course, spent the evening, took tea with Mollie Tabb, met my old friend Mollie at Artesia, Therese, Mr. Berry & Lt. Watts called to see us. Bro. George came today—Dashiell improving—

June 17, 1864.

After erecting some good works at Roswell (the best we have yet built), capable of holding at least 25,000 men, we were provided with three days’ rations and cartridges “ad libitum,” for another of what an Augusta paper calls “Sherman leap-frog-like advance.” Our corps is the extreme left of the army. We moved out this morning, our brigade in advance of our division, and Osterhaus and Smith’s Divisions following on the Decatur road. Did I tell you in my last among the “locals,” that these Roswell factories have been turning out 35,000 yards per day of jeans, etc., for the Confederate Army, that there is the greatest abundance of blackberries and whortleberries here, that one of the 48th Illinois was drowned in the Chattahoochie while bathing, and that of several hundred factory girls I have seen, hardly one who is passably handsome? Some fine fat ones, and a few neat feet, but they are not “clipper built,” and lack “get up” and “figure heads.”

We moved six miles without meeting a Rebel, and then only a squadron of cavalry that lacked a devilish sight of being “chivalry,” for they more than ran without just cause. We only went two miles farther and then bivouacked. Our brigade was thrown half a mile in front and across the road. We put up a rail barricade across the road and a temporary rail-work along our front, and then abandoned ourselves to the longings of our breadbaskets, and desisted not until every man was in himself a miniature blackberry patch. The boys brought me pint after pint of great black fellows they had picked in the shade of dense woods or on a steep bank, and I assure you they disappeared without an exception. This road, the last 10 days, has been filled with refugee citizens running from the Yankees. An old gentleman in whose yard the reserve pickets have stacked their arms, told me that all the men of his acquaintance over 45 years old are, and always have been, Unionists, and are to-day ready and willing to give up slavery for our cause. I have been a deluded believer in the hoax of fine “Georgia plantations,” but I assure you I am now thoroughly convalescent. I haven’t seen five farm houses equal to Mrs. James ——, and only one that showed evidences of taste. That was where I saw the Rebel General Iverson dead among the flowers. The country is all hilly, and the soil, where there is any, is only fit for turnips. The timber is all scrub oak and pine, and some more viney bushes peculiar to the climate.

I notice some of the white moss hanging from the trees, like that there was so much of at Black river. The 16th Corps is on our right moving on a parallel road, and the 23d joins them. I don’t know whether our other corps have crossed yet or not.

JULY 17th.—Dry—the sky bright and brassy—the gardens almost ruined.

Last evening definite news came in the Washington Chronicle of the 14th. Gen. Early was recrossing the Potomac with an immense amount of stores levied in the enemy’s country, including thousands of horses, etc. This, the Chronicle thinks, will be beneficial to the United States, as recruiting will be stimulated, to punish us for making prize of provisions, etc. in the enemy’s country, after the enemy had despoiled us of everything in their power!

Troops are still going up toward Washington from our army, as well as from the enemy’s before Petersburg; and Early, after bestowing his prizes in a place of safety, may return to Maryland and Pennsylvania for another supply. That may be the best policy to get the enemy off our soil. His cutting off communications with the South will not signify much, if we can derive supplies from the North.

Sunday, 17th–The same as ever. Am still in the hospital, but getting some better, and I am very thankful, for it is very disagreeable to lie sick in a field hospital. We have soldiers for nurses, and though they are convalescents, yet they are strong enough to care for the sick and wounded. They are glad to do everything possible for their comrades.

16th. Rode to City Point with John. Visited the hospitals of 5th Corps with him. Good time. Enjoyed it much. Saw Hamilton. Surg. N. Y. Regt. Eyes quite sore.

July 16th. Yesterday we had a long tedious march, putting in a hard day. Last night we were glad to drop on the ground for rest and sleep. This is a hot morning out here in the open fields. Our cavalry boys brought in a captured rebel wagon train. The rebel teamsters were driving as directed by our boys who held guns in their hands. The teamsters knew what that meant. Orders came for us to move into the shaded woods which we found cool and fine.

General David Hunter relieved of his command. General George Crook now our commander. The 8th Corps. Six pointed star. We are also known as the Army of the Shenandoah.

July 16, 1864, 76th of the Campaign.

I can hear no firing to-day, but we are so far from the right or center that we could hear nothing less than a 13-inch mortar. I will tell you all I know of the situation just to let you know how little a soldier knows of what is going on. In papers of this date you will see twice as much. The 17th Army Corps lies on the right bank of the river, and to the right of the army, six miles below the railroad crossing, skirmishing with the enemy on the opposite side. Next comes the 20th, 14th and 4th on the same side, the 4th lying across the railroad four miles, further up the 23d crossed the river, but probably only holds a position, as we do. Then the 16th Corps joins the left of the 23d, and the 15th last, both on the left bank. Not being perfect in heavy strategy, I can’t exactly see the point, but no doubt Sherman does. I suppose the 4th, 14th and 20th Corps will cross near the railroad bridge, and be the first to occupy Atlanta. If we can’t get to give Johnston a sound thrashing, I don’t care about marching another step until fall. Health of the regiment still good, but we are expecting sickness soon. We have had a terrific thunderstorm, killed five men and wounded eight in the 18th Missouri, and killed a teamster and some mules. I never saw but one or two more severe ones.

JUNE 16th.—Bright and cool—the canopy assuming a brassy aspect from the drought.

Alack! all the rejoicings are checked, and the public seems to have been hoaxed by the officer who reported that a Washington paper of the 13th inst. contained an account of the surrender of Baltimore to the Confederate States forces! The paper of that date, it appears, contains nothing of the kind, or else the account has been suppressed, to subserve some military purpose. But our people bear the disappointment well, not doubting but success will ultimately come.

There is a rumor that we sank two of the enemy’s transports today in James River.

An immense mass of letters, etc.—175 bags—has just come in; the first mail matter that has arrived from beyond the breaks in the Danville Railroad, perpetrated by Wilson’s raiders.

July, Saturday 16, 1864

Today Hal, Tate and myself set apart for returning our visits. Capt. Dashiell kindly sent his Rockaway. Therese and Miss Helen Goff came to see us, we started calling just at 11 o’clock—to see Mrs. Forrest first, she had just received a Dispatch from the Gen. he was slightly wounded in the foot. We have the advantage, the enemy in full retreat, but our victory not as yet decidedly great. We returned all calls. Bro. came and spent the evening with us—Nannie and Dashiell came down from Aberdeen. Dashiell’s wound looks very badly and I fear if he is not very prudent, he will be very unfortunate yet. Mr. Pugh and I went out calling this eve, Dashiell, Tate, Nannie, Hal & I went over to see Therese and her Sister after Tea. Oh! such a terible warm night I never experienced. Nannie staid in the room with Tate. Hal & I tried our room for the first time, I am almost sufocated with the heat—