The Caledonian. [volume] (St. Johnsbury, Vt.) 1837-1867, 1862-03-28


on the whole the days march was quite a
greeable, and on the arrival of night We
pitched our camp in beautiful oak grove,
near by clear running brook, which greatly
refreshed both men and horses. The night
was passed very pleasantly and in the enjoy
ment of good nights rest, upon the ground,
by the camp fire, with our blankets around
us. The next morning breakfast was eaten
and the march recommended. We arrived
at PooIsville in the middle of the afternoon,
and tents were pitched near the barracks OF
the Van Allen cavalry, which had also been
ordered over the river. Our horses were
put into the straw barracks previously occu-
pied by them. Thus march of five days
found US in camp once more-not to remain
long, however, for the barracks were rotten
and filthy and the entire camp ground un-
healthy-consequently we decamped and
pitched our present camp. which is about
three miles from Edwards Ferry and four
from Conrad's Ferry, consequently We are
some two miles and half from Harrison ISL
and, opposite which is Balls Bluff. Gen
Stones headquarters at the time of the bat
tie were at Poolsville.
have visited the fatal battle ground of
the bluff, of which you will allow me briefly
to speak. In company with few men on
the morning of the 18th. started for the
bluff On arriving at the Ferry we hitched
our horses and crossed over at the same place
where Gen Lander crossed and was wounded.
We then started for the field of inhuman and
needless slaughter by keeping close to the
river. We passed numerous guard houses
and rife pits which the rebels used but a
short time before for picket duty. There are
immense bluffs nearly all of the way from
Edwards Ferry to the battle field. From the
ferry we were accompanied by two soldiers
from the Massachusetts, 10Th, one of whom
was wounded in the battle They officiated
as guides and were very useful. We saw
where our troops crossed over: where the
first skirmshng took place, where the hard
est of the battle was fought; where Col Ba-
ker was killed and where our brave soldiers
plunged precipitous!y over the bluff into the
river to swim for their lives; where they
stood and were shot down like cattle; and
where they were numerously taken prisoners
ANY one who views the battle field, although
he knows nothing Of military, can at once
see that Gen Stone displayed great skill and
considerable energy in crossing over the
number of men which he did, and landing
them at such an untavorable spot. But fol
what purpose did he land his men apparently
with so much care? believe FOR no Other
purpose than 10 have them cut to pieces anC
slaughtered by the wholesale. If he had an,
other object in view why did he not prepar.
chance for a retreat? If he consulted III,
safety of his troops at all, why did he suite
them AFTER hShtlng no0lv to be Obliged Il
either jump over precipice of at least iift,
feet, jump into the river, be shot. or takel
prisoners of war? contend that the pla,
of the battle was unfortunate. and its result
disastrous, for which Gen Stone is accounta
ble While the men covered themselve:
with glory by their bravery, the conduct OF
their commander was inglorious.
To-day was up the river twelve miles, a
the Point of Rocks. ard saw the ruins of III,
bridge over the Potomac. which the rebel
burned last June. How long We shall re
main where we are is uncertain. | heliev,
the health Of the regiment is generally good
Yours in the bonds Of love
for our common country,
J.G.. JR.