Woodstock, Virginia, September 23, 1864.
Dearest: — We fought the enemy again [yesterday] at Fisher’s Hill near Strasburg. They had fortified a naturally strong position with great industry. It seemed impregnable, but General Crook contrived an attack, by going up a mountainside, which turned their position. My division led the attack. The victory was [as] complete as possible and, strangest of all, our loss is almost nothing.
Captain Douglass sits near me in excellent health. We are following the enemy. Shall be out of hearing for some time.
In the rush after the Rebels no flag was so conspicuous as yours. It seems a trifle larger than others, is bright and new, and as it went double-quick at the head of a yelling host for five miles, I thought how you would enjoy the sight. The color-bearer told me he should go to see you when the war was over. He is an American German, with a dark Indian face, full of spirit.
Captain Hastings’ wound is severe but not dangerous. Captain Stewart, the best captain in [the] Thirteenth, ditto. Captain Slack killed. In the fight yesterday none were killed of your friends or acquaintances and very few hurt.
A train goes in a minute and I must send a line to Mother. — Dr. Joe perfectly triumphant. He was at the head of the host yesterday. — Love to all.
Affectionately ever,
R.
P. S. — Since the wounding of Colonel Duval, I command the splendid old Kanawha Division — two brigades, now not over three thousand strong, but no better fighters live.
Mrs. Hayes.
