.NDc1.NDIwMA

76 August 20th

  We got up this morning and fed our horses and got ready to start. our Picket was attacked by the rebels abought 8 oclock this morning. we quickly got into line ready to receive them. They come up and a brisk firing commenced we kept falling back till 2 or 3 rigements of Cavalry came to renforce us. a lively fight was kepted up for abought 4 or 5 hours. we had to retreat. we crossed the Rapahannoc river and joined the rest of the army. we expect a battle to morrow for Jacksons army is close at hand.

77[page number]

August 21t The rebels have advanced during the night and the battle has commenced this morning. heavy cannonading is going on both sides. but no Infantry has been engaged. we with another rigement of Cavalry and 2 pieces of artrilley was sent at noon to guard a place where the rebels can cross the river and come in on our right flank. I expect to morrow there will be a heavy battle. I hope the Lord will spare my life if I am in the battle and keep from all harm. I am on picket guard to night.