Silent was located about as hereinafter stated. Parker and
Wight held our line in front of Peters-ville, and Orden's line reached
to the crossing of Hatcher's Run. Hume had moved to the left of Orden,
by change of orders, and Warner was on the left of the moving column.
Sherlin was now at Dinwiddie, on our left flank, some five miles
separated from the left of our infantry. This movement was made late
in the afternoon. Our lines now covered the ground from Appomattox to
Dinwiddie Courthouse. Silent said:

"'Now, let us see what we can do with the enemy.'

"This portion of the country was covered with forests and swampy
streams. During the night the rain fell in torrents, and by the next
morning it seemed impossible for man or beast to move without sticking
in the quicksands. The rain continued, and a deep gloom seemed to settle
over our army. Some who were in Silent's confidence suggested a return
to our former lines, but Silent could not see how we could go back if
not forward.

"Just at this moment Sherlin came riding up, through rain and mud, and
suggested that an advance was sure of success. Silent at once gave him
orders to return and take possession of Five Forks. The enemy was now
confronted by our army at every point.

"Sherlin, on his return, at once sent one of his divisions forward.
The conditions of the roads prevented any serious assault with cavalry.
Warner was now advanced, extending his left across the Boydton road, He
fortified his position, but did not attack; the enemy were too strong
in his front. Hume, meanwhile, attacked the enemy and drove him from his
advanced position. On account of mud and bad roads no further movement
was made during that day.

"On the next day, however, as Silent had suggested to Meador, the enemy
made a heavy assault on Warner's left, and pressed his whole corps back
some distance. Hume sent Milo with his division to Warner's support. The
rebels were now checked. The Second Corps was sent to Milo and the enemy
were attacked in flank in front of Warner, and were driven back to their
original line. Warner now moved up, supported by Milo, and gained a
lodgment on the White Oak road. Sherlin was attacked near Dinwiddie and
a severe battle ensued, which continued until dark, Sherlin holding his
ground.

"Both parties lay upon their arms that night within a stone's throw of
each other. During the night the Fifth Corps was ordered to the support
of Sherlin. The enemy, disco