The shot killed the two lead horses; the driver jumped down and cut the dead horses clear and managed to save the gun for us to face again the same day. After we had taken the first line of works, the Ninth corps passed to the front to take the second line. General Charles S. Griffin our commander, told us that we had done our duty well, and had done enough for one day, so we stacked arms and dropped down to rest.
Just at dusk, an aide came riding swiftly to our line, with the message that the left of the troops in front of us had broke, and our assistance was wanted. The order came clear and sharp:
“Fall in! Take arms! Left face! Forward double quick, march!”
General Griffin took the lead, shouting,
“Follow me!”
Away we went to where the troops had broke, and oh, what confusion! Shells bursting, men running here and there, every one for himself, and above all the noise was heard the rebel yell, once heard, never to be forgotten.
Our brigade passed through the retreating men, and began firing, to check if possible, the enemy’s advance. This we did, and drove them back to their old position.
Here I saw a sight which in all the confusion and excitement thrilled me with admiration, something not often seen in action under any circumstances. The 155th Pennsylvania regiment of our brigade was on our right, firing by rank, and as cool as if on dress parade, and they continued so to do until we retired, leaving the recovered position for the Ninth corps to hold. Griffin’s “Fighting brigade” was composed of seasoned veterans, and of them all, none were braver or bolder than the 155th Penn. volunteers.
Chapter XXIV.
WELDON RAILROAD.
The whizzing shell may burst in fire,