We are very
strongly posted, entrenched, and have now at our command about 15,000 of the
best troops in the world. We have besides, two batteries of artillery, a
regiment of cavalry, and daily expect a battalion of flying artillery from
Richmond. We have sent forward seven regiments of infantry and rifles toward
Alexandria. Our outposts have felt the enemy several times, and in every
instance the enemy recoils. General Johnston has had several encounters — the
advancing columns of the two armies — and with him, too, the enemy, although
always superior in numbers, are invariably driven back.
There is great
deficiency in the matter of ammunition. General Johnston's command, in the very
face of overwhelming numbers, have only thirty rounds each. If they had been well
provided in this respect, they could and would have defeated Cadwallader and
Paterson with great ease. I find the opinion prevails throughout the army that there
is great imbecility and shameful neglect in the War Department.
Unless the
Republicans fall back, we must soon come together on both lines, and have a
decided engagement. But the opinion prevails here that Lincoln's army will not
meet us if they can avoid it. They have already fallen back before a slight
check from 400 of Johnston's men. They had 700 and were badly beaten. You have
no idea how dirty and irksome the camp life is. You would hardly know your best
friend in camp guise.
SOURCE: Mary Boykin Chesnut, Edited by Isabella D. Martin
and Myrta Lockett Avary, A Diary From Dixie, p. 75-6
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