August 1, 1864.
Since the glorious battle of the 28th, everything has been quiet in our immediate front, though the heavy artillery firing continues to the left. I think it is between the 14th and 20th Corps and some Rebel forts. Prisoners say that our shells have hurt the city very much. We all think that the last battle is by far the most brilliant of the campaign. Our officials’ reports show that we buried 1,000 Rebels in front of our and M. L. Smith’s divisions.
In fact, our two divisions and two regiments of Osterhaus’ did all the fighting. Our total loss was less than 550, the Rebels 8,000. In the last 12 days they must have lost 25,000 men. Our loss in the same time will not reach 4,500. There is no shadow of gas in this, as you would know if you could see an unsuccessful charge on works.
The enemy is reported as moving to our right in heavy force.
Monday, 1st—Quite warm and sultry. There isn’t any news from the front. There is a force of about two thousand here under command of General Vandever, with an equal number of convalescents. The courthouse, located on the highest point of ground in Rome, is our citadel, strongly fortified with guns facing in all directions. The place is soon to be garrisoned with two regiments of negro troops, and the few remaining citizens are greatly agitated over the thought of being stopped on the streets by negro guards and required to show their passes.
August 1st. Cloudy, muggy morning. After a good night’s rest, am feeling fine. Early on the march. After a march, about four miles, came to a halt on a road leading through woodland of very large trees. Later we camp in the woods, near the town of Wolfsville, Maryland. A report has reached us that the rebs have burned the town of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. Reported the enemy may come through this section and we may get a crack at them. Infantry cannot pursue cavalry. Mounted men have a great advantage over us fellows on foot. Weather very fine, water very poor, and not very much of it. We appreciate good water, where we can have plenty of it
Etowah Bridge, Monday, Aug. 1. On guard, second relief. Health good. Everthing passed off smoothly with the exception of no papers came. By order of General Sherman none to be sold this side of the front, his policy being “those that fight shall read”. Right, and we cannot grumble, but hope they will furnish enough for both soon.
by John Beauchamp Jones
AUGUST 1ST.—Hot and clear; but it rained yesterday three-quarters of an hour in the afternoon.
Our loss in the affair atPetersburg is about 800, the enemy’s 3500. We captured 2000 small arms.
We have nothing yet fromAtlanta, but no doubt there has been another battle. I hope no disaster has befallen us there. No doubt the wires have been cut by the raiders, and roads also. It is a critical time inGeorgia. But ifVirginia triumphs over the assaults of Grant, all will go well.
