Sunday, May 8th.
Took up our line of march about five o’clock in the morning and overtook the artillery train at about four P. M. The day was hot and the roads very dusty, and we were obliged to tie handkerchiefs over our mouths and noses in order to breathe. Smoke from forest fires filled the air and added to the misery caused by the dust. Marched about seven miles. Companies D and H were detailed to guard the Headquarters train, which was then near the Nye River, and K and E were sent to guard the ammunition train of the Corps. The artillery and musketry fire at 7 o’clock was very brisk, and was supposed to be near Spottsylvania Court House. In the evening Companies D and H were sent out on picket, and were marched about a good deal without any apparent object except exercise.
