The 2d brigade suffered
less; but as a brigade, their conduct entitled them to the
applause of their country. After the enemy's strong position had
been carried by the 21st and the detachments of the 17th and
19th, the 1st and 23d assumed a new character. They could not
again be shaken or dismayed. Major McFarland, of the latter, fell
nobly at the head of his battalion.

Under the command of General Porter, the militia volunteers (p. 211)
of Pennsylvania and New York stood undismayed amidst the hottest
fire, and repulsed the veterans opposed to them. The Canadian
volunteers, commanded by Colonel Wilson, are reported by General
Porter as having merited and received his approbation.

The corps of artillery commanded by Major Hindman, behaved with
its usual gallantry. Towson's company attached to the 1st
brigade, was the first and the last engaged, and during the whole
conflict maintained that high character which they had previously
won by their skill and their valour. Captains Biddle and Ritchie
were both wounded early in the action, but refused to quit the
field. The latter declared that he would never leave his piece;
and true to his engagement, fell by its side covered with wounds.

The staff of the army had its peculiar merit and distinction.
Colonel Gardner, adjutant-general, though ill, was on horseback,
and did all in his power; his assistant, Major Jones, was very
active and useful. My gallant aids-de-camp, Austin and Spencer,
had many and critical duties to perform, in discharge of which
the latter fell; I shall ever think of this young man with pride
and regret; regret that his career has been so short; pride that
it has been so noble and distinguished. The engineers, Majors
McRee and Wood, were greatly distinguished on this day, and their
high military talents exerted with great effect; they were much
under my eye and near my person, and to their assistance a great
deal is fairly to be ascribed. I most earnestly recommend them as
worthy of the highest trust and confidence. The staff of Generals
Ripley and Porter, discovered great zeal and attention to duty.
Lieutenant E. B. Randolph, of the 20th regiment, is entitled to
notice; his courage was conspicuous.

I enclose a return of our loss: those noted missing may generally