The following work is a narration of facts. My only desire is to give a clear and connected record of what will ever be regarded as a most remarkable episode in the history of the Great Rebellion. The style of the book demands an apology. It was begun in sickness induced by the privations of rebel prisons, and completed amidst the fatigue and excitement of the most glorious campaign which has yet crowned our arms. Under these circumstances, there must be many faults of expression, which a generous reader will readily pardon. To the many kind friends who sympathized with me during the weary interval when my fate was considered hopeless, as well as those who rejoiced with me on my return, I can only tender my most sincere thanks. Myself and comrades are greatly indebted to the PRESIDENT and Secretary STANTON for their generous recognition of our services, and the munificent rewards bestowed upon us. To them, and to Judge HOLT, Major-General HITCHCOCK, and JAMES C. WETMORE, Ohio State Military Agent, we take this opportunity of expressing our heartfelt obligations. Another to whom I am indebted is Dr. R. T. TRALL of New York. At his beautiful "_Hygiean Home_," on the mountain side, near Wernersville, Berks county, Pennsylvania, I regained my lost health. For his kindness, and that of his skillful assistants, Drs. GLASS and FAIRCHILD, I will ever be deeply grateful. It was with regret, woven with many pleasant memories, that I left their hospitable home when recovered health and duty called me again to the field. To my early friend, Rev. ALEXANDER CLARK, Editor of the "_School Visitor_," I am still more deeply indebted. His literary experience was freely placed at my service, and when discouraged in the preparation of my story, which was to me an arduous undertaking, his words of hope and cheer stimulated me to renewed efforts. But for aid derived from his sympathy and advice, I would have probably abandoned my task. May he be fully rewarded! There are a host of others whose good offices will always be kindly remembered. Among them are W. R. ALLISON of the "_Steubenville Herald_," Dr. JOHN McCOOK, also of Steubenville, Dr. GEORGE McCOOK of Pittsburgh, Rev. WILLIAM B. WATKINS, A. M., Dr. JOHN MILLS, and many others. Thanks to them all! WILLIAM PITTENGER. _Army of the Cumberland, August, 1863._ CONTENTS. CHAPTER I. Sad Retrospective--Object of the Book--Military Situation in the Southwest--Disaster and Energy of the Rebels--Necessity for a Secret Expedition--A Proposition to Buell and Mitchel--An Attempt and Failure--Return of Adventurers--Second Expedition--Writer Volunteers--Andrews, the Leader--Parting from the Regiment--On the Way--Perplexities--The Writer _Cur-tailed_! 23-35 CHAPTER II.