March 12th, 1865.
Despite the numerous predictions of newspaper correspondents to the contrary, quiet, profound and undisturbed, prevails along our lines. We are not “mud bound,” but are awaiting the movement of the immense force Grant is now concentrating near Hatcher’s Run, ready to seize on any advantage that may offer and to perform their part in the final struggle which cannot be long delayed.
The First and Second Divisions of the Ninth Corps are holding the works around Petersburg, and are stretched to their utmost tension. The most difficult and complex combinations are about to be brought to an issue. If successful, Lee’s army is destroyed; the rebellion crushed; the war terminated. As I read them, “the signs of the times” are full of promise.
