d and we were not permitted to leave the teams
an instant. Our loss is very heavy especially in officers. The struggle
on our side was for the occupation of Tunnel Hill and our line advanced
up the steep side of the bluff time after time, but were obliged to fall
back, the rebels being reinforced all the time, and could pick them off
with ease, the lay of the land being such that they succeeded in
flanking the 11th Corps, and they fell back in disorder. But they were
received by the 2nd and 3rd Brigade of our Division, and soon compelled
to retire.

More desperate fighting, it is said by those who witnessed, they had
never seen. Our line being for hours under the enemy they rolled stones
upon us, wounding many. Three companies of the 5th Iowa were taken
prisoners, having used up all their ammunition and would not run.
Artillery could not be brought to much use, and my feelings as I staid
under that hill, listening to the noise and rattle of the fight, mingled
with suppressed cheers of charging parties, and the groans of the
wounded as they passed in the long trains of ambulances, or the lighter
wounded hobbling back afoot with bleeding and mangled limbs, I cannot
describe in words. General Matthies was wounded in the head while
leading his Brigade on to the charge. I saw him ride to the rear covered
with blood. Colonel Putnam of the 93rd Illinois was killed instantly
while waving the colors in front of his men, a noble and much loved
officer. The 90th Illinois and 73rd Pennsylvania were literally cut to
pieces, and their officers all killed or wounded.

The day closed, and the dark mantle of night was spread over the gory
fields. We have gained nothing in the shape of ground all day, but their
slaughter must be terrible. Thomas and Hooker were at them all day and
it is reported gained great advantage. We had to fight the main body of
the army. Lookout was taken yesterday, 2500 prisoners and three pieces
of artillery. To-morrow if they stand, will be a final and awful test of
strength. Sherman, cool and deliberate, is ready for them. Got corn to
feed on the battle-field.

Mission Ridge, Thursday, Nov. 26. After we retired last night with
horses unharnessed, a courier came in hot haste with the report "The
enemy is coming down upon us in double columns". We were ready to give
them a warm reception on short notice, but they did not come, and again
we laid down, but left the harness on. _They will not catch us napping._