“The conversation here ceased on this subject, and both retired to rest. The next morning Gen. Anderson and his companion, Lieut. Whitcomb, left very early for Gen. Or-den's headquarters. As they were leaving Gen. Silent came out and spoke many kind words to Gen. Anderson. He said:
“'I feel much better this morning. I will be at the front to-day, and will see you, perhaps.9
“With a good-by they separated. When Gen. Anderson arrived at Gen. Orden's headquarters he was ready to move his command to the left. He had been telegraphed by Silent of Anderson's assignment, so the orders were ready, and Gen. Anderson at once took command of a splendid division, getting acquainted as best he could on the march that day. His command was in the lead. Late in the afternoon he met Gen. Sherlin, who was overjoyed to see him, saying:
“'Anderson, you have no time to learn the situation, but I want you to be close to me. I will speak to Orden.'
“Their lines were formed that evening and all was in readiness for action. On the afternoon of the 29th the Union line was continuous from Appomattox, and still moving to the left. Silent said:
“'I feel now like ending the matter, if it is possible, before going back.'
“The army of Silent was located about as hereinafter stated. Parker and Wight held our line in front of Peters-ville, and Orden's line reached to the crossing of Hatcher's Run. Hume had moved to the left of Orden, by change of orders, and Warner was on the left of the moving column. Sherlin was now at Dinwiddie, on our left flank, some five miles separated from the left of our infantry. This movement was made late in the afternoon. Our lines now covered the ground from Appomattox to Dinwiddie Courthouse. Silent said:
“'Now, let us see what we can do with the enemy.'
“This portion of the country was covered with forests and swampy streams. During the night the rain fell in torrents, and by the next morning it seemed impossible for man or beast to move without sticking in the quicksands. The rain continued, and a deep gloom seemed to settle over our army. Some who were in Silent's confidence suggested a return to our former lines, but Silent could not see how we could go back if not forward.
“Just at this moment Sherlin came riding up, through rain and mud, and suggested that an advance was sure of success. Silent at once gave him orders to return and take possession of Five Forks. The enemy was now confronted by our army at every point.