The bullets of the rebel sharp-shooters were annoying, but produced no disorder in the ranks, save a man now and then fell to rise no more.
What solemnity was on every countenance! What resolution in every heart! What stillness reigned in the ranks as the men heard the spitting of the bullets over their heads, between them, at their feet, and saw fifty rods in front of them, a long column of rebels, coolly standing at parade rest, waiting to receive them!
A few rods farther, and the order to fire was given on both sides, to be followed by a roar of musketry and a scene of carnage that beggars all description.
At this point, the writer of this sketch had the honor to establish his claim for a discharge. He bade adieu to the company, wishing them a happy time, and was escorted to the rear by the faithful Trembley. This little band of Ohio soldiers soon found themselves hemmed in by hosts of rebels, who rose up on every side.
To stand, was impossible. To run, was not thought of. Therefore they were obliged to take the only alternative, to fall.
The darkness of the night closed the musketry engagement; and when that glad time came, only seventy of the Seventh Ohio could be found to go on picket duty. As this small remnant passed the ambulance which had the honor to bear the wounded, bleeding body of that brave man, Col. Creighton, his soul was stirred within him, but he could only say, "Go on, boys. You have got to be killed, and it may as well be now as any other time." In the thick darkness, they were soon challenged, and a volley of musketry again tithed the ranks. Lieut. Ross, commanding Company C, fell, mortally wounded, and with him five or six of the rank and file of the regiment. The Union troops were obliged to fall back a mile, and the enemy occupied the field until the close of the next day. The dead and wounded were in the hands of the enemy, and could be found only by flag of truce.
It proved that only four of Company C had passed through unhurt. Sergeant Bowler, Corporal Evers, privates Shepard, Rappleye, and W. F. Richmond, were killed. The most seriously wounded were Cooper, Dickson, Andrews, Badger, Carrothers, Buxton, and Theodore Wilder.
The wounded were removed to Culpepper during the night, and after two or three days, to Alexandria.
The battle of Cedar Mountain proved the most destructive of all, to the Seventh. Seventy-five per cent. were killed and wounded.
Pope's Retreat.