on our arrival
the bridge over the river in flames. We also learned that a Virginia
regiment had just retreated across the bridge, and that they would be
heavily reinforced on the following morning. The Major immediately
ordered a reconnoissance of the whole position by dismounted cavalrymen.
In this reconnoissance we found previous reports confirmed, in that we
discovered a rebel gunboat on the other side of the river.

To destroy the gunboat which was not fully completed, was one of our
principal objects; but to do it in the face of an enemy, concealed in
the woods on the opposite bank, was a different matter. In order to cast
a heavy reflection of light on the enemy, we set fire to large
quantities of turpentine, in barrels, in sheds and otherwise. This
rendered the scene one of peculiar and lively interest. The flames
ascended in all forms and to various heights, communicating to and
firing many of the adjacent trees. During all this time the enemy laid
low in the woods, only firing one or two small arms.

After brief deliberation, the Major determined to call upon some one to
volunteer and swim the river; then, after swimming it, to board the
gunboat and fire it. To do this daring deed, Henry Butler, of Company C,
Third New York Cavalry, volunteered. Our artillery was ordered up, and
opened with shell to the right and left of the bridge. Butler then
undressed, ran down the bank, plunged into the river, and swam to the
opposite side. He then started to get a fire brand at the burning
bridge, when the enemy opened fire on him. Butler instantly turned and
ran for the river, followed by a couple of the enemy (who quickly sprang
from their hiding places), jumped into the water, was again fired upon,
and finally reached his old position without injury. For this gallant
act the Major highly complimented Butler on the spot and while Butler
was in a situation not observable in civilized, unwarlike society. We
then gave the enemy a severe dose of canister, and, finding that we
could not well get over to the gunboat, we battered it to pieces with
shot and shell. The vessel was a small one, flat bottomed, intended for
fast river navigation, designed for one or two guns, built somewhat
after the form of the Merrimac, iron plating and all. We then returned
to camp, having accomplished our purpose.

In connection with our movements to-day I may add that the enemy was
completely outwitted. From the fact of our having fought har