General Jackson's career going on gloriously. After
defeating Millroy, and Fremont's advance in the Valley, and driving them back
in confusion, so that nothing was to be feared from his threatened union with
Banks, he pursued the enemy as far as Franklin, Pendleton County. Then
returning, he marched on rapidly, captured Front Royal on the 23d, chasing the
enemy through it at more than double-quick. Still pressing hard upon Banks, he
gave him no rest night nor day, piercing his main column while retreating from
Strasburg to Winchester — the “rear part retreating towards Strasburg. On
Sunday, 25th, the other part was routed at Winchester. At last accounts,
Brigadier-General George H. Stuart was pursuing them with cavalry and
artillery, and capturing many.” I quote from the General's own telegram, dated
Winchester, May 26th. And now, notwithstanding our condition in Richmond, our
hearts and voices are attuned to praise, and our pagans are more loud and
bright in contrast to our late distressing trials.
SOURCE: Judith W. McGuire, Diary of a Southern
Refugee, During the War, p. 117
