Wednesday, June 3, 2015

Diary of Judith Brockenbrough McGuire: September 2, 1862

Lynchburg. – The papers to-day give glorious news of a victory to our arms on the plains of Manassas, on the 28th, 29th, and 30th. I will give General Lee's telegram:


army Of Northern Virginia,
Groveton, August 30 — 10 P. M.
Via Rapidan.

To President Davis: — This army achieved to-day, on the plains of Manassas, a signal victory over the combined forces of McClellan and Pope. On the 28th and 29th, each wing, under Generals Longstreet and Jackson, repulsed with valour attacks made on them separately. We mourn the loss of our gallant dead in every conflict, yet our gratitude to Almighty God for his mercies rises higher each day. To Him and to the valour of our troops a nation's gratitude is due.

(Signed)
R. E. Lee.


Nothing more to-day — my heart is full. The papers give no news of the dead and wounded. The dreaded black-list yet to come. In the mean time we must let no evil forebodings mar our joy and thankfulness.

SOURCE: Judith W. McGuire, Diary of a Southern Refugee, During the War, p. 150-1

No comments: