y in the
East.'

"But our army moved on, and during the march to the vicinity of
Combination River they were met by the enemy frequently, who were
trying to impede their march, and several severe skirmishes and
minor engagements occurred. They were now within some twenty miles of
Dolinsburg Fortress, when a sharp and very decisive engagement took
place between one battalion of cavalry, two batteries of artillery, and
three regiments of infantry on our side, where Col. Anderson was
the ranking officer, and therefore in command, and five regiments of
infantry, two batteries and one troop of cavalry on the side of the
rebels. They were posted behind a small stream, known as Snake
Creek, having steep banks. The action commenced, as usual, with the
skirmishers. After reconnoitering the position well, the Colonel
determined to send his cavalry and one regiment around some distance, so
as to cross the stream and strike the enemy's left flank. He could
not expect re-enforcements, if they might be needed, very soon, as he
marched on the extreme southern road, so as to form the junction with
the other troops on their extreme right, touching Combination River to
the south of the enemy's works, so as to be the extreme right flank
of our army. The enemy, finding his force was superior in numbers,
attempted to cross the stream with his infantry. The two batteries were
opened and poured shrapnel into the advancing column, dealing havoc and
slaughter on all sides. They tried to keep their line, but they soon
staggered, halted, and fell back. The Colonel then opened a destructive
musketry fire all along the line. Just at this moment he heard the
attack of his regiment of infantry and troop of cavalry on their flank.
He quickly advanced across the stream, and the enemy was in utter rout.

"He captured all his guns--six 12-pound Napoleons and four
howitzers--and a large number of prisoners. He followed closely on the
rear of the enemy, gathering in stragglers and squads of men until night
closed in and compelled him to desist and go into camp. When safety
from surprise was assured, he sent for one of the prisoners to get some
information about the road and the fortifications, commands, etc. After
ascertaining many things that he considered important, he found, upon
further inquiry, that his enemy upon that afternoon was commanded by
Col. Jos. Whitthorne, his wife's brother. He turned and said to Peter,
who was standing near:

"'This m