by John Beauchamp Jones
AUGUST 27Th.—Bright morning, and fine shower last night. The people are smiling to-day from our success of Thursday, announced in the following dispatch from Gen. Lee:
“HEADQUARTERS ARMY NORTHERN VIRGINIA,
“August 26th, 1864.
“HON. J. A. SEDDON, SECRETARY OF WAR.
“General A. P. Hill attacked the enemy in his intrenchments at Reams’s Station yesterday evening, and at the second assault carried his entire line.
“Cook’s and McRae’s North Carolina brigades, under Gen. Heth, and Lane’s North Carolina brigade, of Wilcox’s division, under Gen. Connor, with Pegram’s artillery, composed the assaulting party.
“One line of breastworks was carried by the cavalry under Gen. Hampton with great gallantry, who contributed largely to the success of the day.
“Seven stands of colors, two thousand prisoners, and nine pieces of artillery are in our possession.
“The loss of the enemy in killed and wounded is reported to be heavy—ours relatively small.
“Our profound gratitude is due to the Giver of all victory, and our thanks to the brave men and officers engaged.
“R. E. LEE.”
It is said to-day that our captures will amount to 2500, and a brigadier-general is among the prisoners.
The President intimated to-day to the Secretary that when he respites a prisoner condemned to death, he does not desire the case brought to him again to approve the execution.
