May 28th. We are expecting to move with the troops here by transports to protect the capital from an attack by Gen. Jubal Early’s forces who have been detached from Lee’s army and are now moving in the direction of Washington.
Sunday, May 29th. Our battery was put aboard the transport St. Nicholas. We moved out on the river in tow of the steamer General Hooker, having for our protection and escort three gunboats.
May 30th. Steamed down the Rappahannock River at five A. M., under the escort of the gunboats, and anchored opposite Port Tappahannock.
May 31st. Moved again this morning down the river and anchored at nightfall.
June 2d. Arrived at the Sixth Street wharf in Washington at ten P. M., but did not disembark.
June 3d. This morning the battery disembarked, and marched to the Arsenal and turned our pieces over to the authorities in charge there. We then proceeded to the general corral and turned in our horses, as it is rumored that we are to go on duty acting as heavy artillery to garrison the forts in the defenses of Washington. From the corral we marched to the Soldiers Rest, where we were quartered for the night.
June 4th. At ten A. M. marched out of the Soldiers Rest, through Washington over Long Bridge to Fort Richardson, where we are to perform garrison duty for awhile.
First Sergt. George Messinger.