Sad news from the Valley. The brave, gallant, dashing
General Ashby has fallen! He was killed yesterday, in a vigorous attack made by
the enemy on our rear-guard, at a point between Harrisonburg and Port Republic.
The whole country will be shocked by the calamity, for it had a high
appreciation of his noble character and achievements. General Jackson valued
him very highly, as did both men and officers. His daring was wonderful, and
wonderfully did he succeed in his dashing and heroic efforts. “His sagacity in
penetrating into the designs of the enemy seemed almost intuitive.”* It is so hard, in our weakness, to give up
such men!
_______________
* From General Jackson's telegram announcing the death of
General Ashby.
SOURCE: Judith W. McGuire, Diary of a Southern
Refugee, During the War, p. 119-20
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