Our regiment had only been camped a few days on Cameron Run when the advance against the enemy at Manassas was ordered, and we two (Georgeanna and Eliza) watched the brigade break camp and march down the peaceful country road, carrying Joe away from us. We stood alone, and looked after them as long as they were in sight, and then made our way back to Washington.
After skirmishing at Fairfax Court House and Centreville, in which the regiment was engaged more or less, the battle of Bull Run was fought, July 21st, the regiment taking position on the extreme left at Blackburn’s Ford.
Here Colonel Davies, owing to the unfortunate condition of Colonel Miles, was left virtually in command of the reserve division.
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Joseph Howland writes from Camp near Centreville.
July 19, 1861.
We had hardly got here yesterday when we heard heavy cannonading in the S. W. It proved to be the firing at Bull’s Run, where our troops were repulsed. A complete blunder–the old story of a masked battery and an insufficient infantry force sent against it. We expected a renewal of the fight last night. We slept on our arms, and were prepared for action at any hour. Nothing occurred, however. Our scouts bring in word that the enemy are receiving large reinforcements, and we on our side are also getting them. Everything points to a great battle.