But why say, or even think fault of what was done, for what was not done, then. Everybody is wiser now.
Through all its after course the Regiment proved itself full worthy of the reputation, at that time, so early in its history, at the very beginning of its first campaign, impliedly accorded it, that it would go wherever ordered to go, and pick up on the way whatever could be found most effective for the best work.
And there was the full Regulation uniform. The appearance presented in the dark blue, the tail coat, the plentiful hat, and the extra cap. Who can say that these things were not sufficient to keep Stonewall Jackson on the other side, notwithstanding the apparent absence of arms? for, competent soldier that he was, he could not have been induced to believe that, in the ninth month of the War, a regiment of United States Regulars would have been permitted at the front without all requisite paraphernalia close at hand.
Initial Encounter with the Enemy.
On the night of the 3d, the Regiment was crossed over the Potomac on scows, and marched six miles across the country to Bath, the summer resort known as Berkly Springs.
Here were met Captain Russell's company of First Maryland Cavalry, two companies of the 39th Illinois Infantry, and a section of Artillery, two guns, with which force the 84th was to co-operate, with Colonel Murray, the ranking officer, in command.
On the morning of the 4th, from out of Bath, up on the mountain top, and there formed in line. From this point the rebel army could be plainly seen advancing along the three roads; Jackson's force of 10,000, consisting of Ewell's, Longstreet's and Early's brigades, supplemented by Ashby's Cavalry.
A detail from the Regiment was thrown out as pickets or skirmishers. It is hardly required to say that these were forced back as the enemy moved on, until our small force was almost surrounded. Sufficient show of strength was kept up to deter Jackson from moving faster.
About one o'clock in the afternoon, word was had that the Artillery had exhausted their ammunition, and Murray concluded to fall back. The Regiment could not return by the way it had come. A guide was sought, found and pressed into the service. His inclination was much toward the other side, and he soon showed himself more desirous of coming up with Ashby than of pointing out a safe approach to the river. At one point he came so near the accomplishment of his purpose, that Murray gave him a gentle caution in about these words: If one of my men loses his life by your movement, your own life will be the forfeit. Thus kindly admonished, the guide changed the course of the march and conducted the Regiment to Sir John's Run, six miles up the river, from which point the way was along the railroad, under the high bluffs, to the old mill opposite Hancock.
The problem now presented was how to avoid attack while recrossing. Upon Captain Russell's suggestion the two companies of the 39th Illinois were placed in ambush, while he so disposed his men as to draw Ashby on. The manœuvre worked well, and Ashby was so much surprised by the unexpected fire as to desist from further attempt.