Civil War Diary of Charles H. Lynch.

December 25th. Christmas Morn. The boys made very happy last night over the prospect of returning to our camp. Spent the evening singing, making speeches, having a good time. It was late when the tumult ceased and we lay down for a little rest and sleep. Our second Christmas in the service. We bid goodbye to old Charlestown as we go marching on, singing and cheering, on to Martinsburg. Weather fine, a perfect day. Hard marching over a very rough road. At i P. M. stopped for rest and rations. Again on the march, passing through Leestown, fording the Opequan Creek. Pushing right along, anxious to reach camp. About two miles from Martinsburg passed the picket line. With music by the drum corps and every man in line, we marched through the town, reaching camp just before dark. The guard left in charge of our camp gave us a hearty welcome. Very tired, glad to tumble into our tents after an absence of sixteen days.