operated upon the flank of the enemy until after dark.'

"The wagons blockading the bridge were soon removed by being
thrown into the stream and a section from each battery was
worked across by hand, supported by the escort, and brought
to bear upon a negro brigade with fearful loss; the other
two sections were quickly to the front, ahead of any support
for the moment, and drove the enemy from the ridge back of
Holland's house across Dry creek. The cavalry in the
meantime had halted, reorganized and soon joined in the
pursuit. The road was narrow, with dense woods on each side,
so that it was impossible to use more than four pieces at a
time, but that number were kept close upon the heels of the
retreating enemy and a murderous fire prevented them from
forming to make a stand.

"The ridge extending southward from the Hadden house offered
a strong natural position for defensive operations. Upon
this ridge the Federals had established a line of battle,
but a few well directed shots from the artillery stationed
near the Holland house and a charge by our cavalry across
Dry creek readily put them to flight. A section of each
battery was ordered at a gallop to this ridge, which was
reached in time to open with a few rounds of double-shotted
cannister upon their demoralized ranks as they hastily
retreated through the open fields on either side of Phillips
branch. Our cannoneers were greatly blown and well nigh
exhausted from excessive heat and continuous labor at their
guns for full five hours. We noticed a number drink with
apparant relish the black powder water from the sponge
buckets."

The enemy followed the fleeing column, capturing and wounding many at
the town of Ripley. Next morning the Federals made a stand. Again the
Phalanx bore the brunt of the battle, and when finally the troops
stampeded, held the confederates in check until the white troops were
beyond capture. But this was all they could do, and this was indeed an
heroic act.

The confederate says:

"Long before daylight found us moving rapidly to overtake
the flying foe. We had changed positions. The cavalry now
being in advance, overtook the enemy at Stubb's farm; a
sharp skirmish ensued, when they broke, leaving the
remainder of their wagon train. Fourteen pieces of artillery
and