Between Chattanooga and
Rossville, May 5, 1864.
It has been a very warm day, and the 16 miles between 8 a,
m. and 4 p. m. counts a hard march. The dust in many places has been ankle
deep.
We again crossed the point of old Lookout. I think since
yesterday morning at least 20 trains loaded with troops have passed us while in
sight of the railroad, with from 15 to 20 cars in each train.
We hear to-day that Dalton is not yet ours, but Sherman only
waits for his old corps before attacking.
Have sent everything back to Chattanooga to store. It is
estimated that we will have over 100,000 men at Dalton day after to-morrow.
Will keep a diary and send every opportunity.
SOURCE: Charles Wright Wills, Army Life of an
Illinois Soldier, p. 234
