Near Railroad Bridge, C HattAhoochIe,
August 30, 1864.
We have changed our base, as you may perceive. On the night
of the 25th, we learned that our corps was to go back to the river and hold a
strong “tête
du pont” covering
the bridges and ferries, while the remainder of the army made a grand movement
towards the right to get position on the Macon Railroad. Our move was executed
very well, all the caissons and wagons going to the rear on the night of the
25th, the troops remaining in position during the next day and moving back at
night.
Our division holds a very strong line, covering the railroad
bridge and two important wooden ones for wagons. We have made ourselves very
strong here, with good earthworks and timber slashed into an impenetrable
abattis for five hundred yards in our front, and are now ready for any part of
the rebel army that sees fit to attack us. Hood will probably have all he wants
on his hands, to look after Sherman and his communications. The 27th was a
bright day in our calendar. On that day, General Slocum returned and took
command; he rode along our position, and was received with the greatest
enthusiasm by the whole line. I had a chance to shake hands with him and say a
few words. He is looking finely. I set him down now as one of the very best
generals in the whole army, and I think time will prove him so. He is, in every
way, a good soldier, and what is better, a true man, devoid of humbug and “rich
in saving common sense.” Professional bummers and loafers must make themselves
scarce now, and men who do their duty will be recognized once more.
SOURCE: Charles Fessenden Morse, Letters Written
During the Civil War, 1861-1865, p. 186-7
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