Three Years in the Federal CavalryGlazier, Willard W.
History
Three Years in the Federal Cavalry
Glazier, Willard W.
United States -- History -- Civil War, 1861-1865 -- Personal narratives
But as Rebels and Yankees were uniformed much alike, it gave some of our
boys an opportunity for stratagem. For instance, one of our fellows
finding himself overtaken by the enemy, began to fire his pistol in the
direction of his flying comrades (with care not to harm them), but with
sufficient vim to be taken by the enemy, in their haste, as one of their
number. In this way they passed him by, and he effected his escape.
This scrambling race continued for about three miles, back to the ground
where the affair commenced, when our men were reenforced by the reserve
from Frying-Pan Church. The Mosbyites were now compelled to halt, and a
charge made upon them drove them back up the pike. They were pursued
several miles, but night came on and our men were compelled to return.
Three of our men were killed, and about thirty-five were taken
prisoners, including one lieutenant. Several horses were also taken
away. The enemy suffered no appreciable loss.
Mosby's plans were certainly made with great wisdom and forethought, and
executed with a dash and will which were at times very astonishing. His
men must have been warmly attached to him as their leader, while the
gain they made by their plunder greatly increased their zeal. The
command was truly _unique_ in its leader, its composition, and its
_modus operandi_, while its results, assisted as they were by the
topography of the country, and the Rebel sympathizers within and just
without our lines, attracted no little attention. The orders of General
Stuart and even those of General Lee associated the name of Mosby with
consummate daring and continual success, stimulating the band to greater
deeds. We append one specimen of those orders, furnished us by one of
their own number:
HEADQUARTERS, CAVALRY DIVISION,
Army of Northern Virginia, March 27, 1863.
CAPTAIN--Your telegram, announcing your brilliant achievements
near Chantilly, was duly received and forwarded to General
Lee. He exclaimed upon reading it, "Hurrah for Mosby! I wish
I had a hundred like him!"
Heartily wishing you continued success, I remain your
obedient servant,
J. E. B. STUART,
Major-General Commanding.
Captain J. S. MOSBY, commanding, etc., etc.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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