In the field, near Bethesda Church, June 4, 1864.
Dear Father — Your letters of May 26th and 28th were received yesterday, and glad enough I was to get them.
We form the extreme right of the army, and are in strong fortifications. Yesterday our corps attacked the enemy in our front, and drove them about half a mile. The day before, we fell back from our line about two miles in front of our present one, in order to keep up our connection with the rest of the army, which had moved to the left. While falling back the enemy attacked us, but we held our own and repulsed them. Our brigade was not actively engaged yesterday, being held in reserve. We were started from one end of the line to the other, and then back again, being under heavy shell fire, and scattering musketry. I had a very narrow escape. I was sitting on a fallen tree, when a 12-pounder shell came along very nearly spent, and grazed my coat sleeve. If I had not changed my position about 15 seconds before, it would have struck me in my right shoulder.
The enemy made a heavy attack on Hancock’s Corps late last evening, and were repulsed with heavy loss. Things look well, although I have no idea what General Grant’s plans can be. I should think that he would endeavor to reach the James River, and join with Butler.
I am perfectly well, although pretty well tired out from this hard campaigning. You have no idea of what the men and officers have had to undergo for the last month. A good portion of the time I have slept on the ground without blankets or shelter during rain and shine. I have not caught cold, and have never been in better health.
Give my love to all the family.
P.S. I received my commission as colonel this morning.
