February 20th, 1865.
It has never been so quiet along our lines as the past two weeks, there being strict orders against picket firing. We are eagerly awaiting news from Sherman, and a development of the toils which are being gradually drawn around Lee’s army. Lee has now but one line of communication left open, and that will soon be closed.
General Wilcox is in Michigan on leave of absence. Furloughs are still freely given, which shows no import’ ant move is contemplated here at present. Captain Sudborbugh is Acting Engineer of the division during the temporary absence of the real one. It is his duty to inspect the front line of works every day and report their condition.
Telegraphic dispatches are again in order. Yesterday the troops were drawn up in line, and the glad news of Sherman’s wonderful success was read to them.
A salute was fired today in honor of Washington’s birth. All our batteries were opened, with shot and shell, at precisely 12m., and was briskly returned by the Rebels. The dangerous “practice” was kept up for nearly two hours, and was intensely exciting. Several of our men were killed by bursting shells.
It has rained all day, a mild, warm rain, and still continues. A detail of twenty men from our regiment has been at work the past three weeks to provide a suitable burial place for our dead. All our dead are to be taken up and buried in a proper manner.
