to regain their connection and establish a
more advanced line of battle. Although the infantry occupied the centre
of the line, their operations were not confined to this point. They were
sent in small detachments to different parts of the field, to support
artillery, and, at times, even to engage the enemy, when opportunity
offered. The line officers bore a thorough test of their experience and
training during a day of perpetual activity.

The "Reserve Brigade" had gone into action. There were to be no fresh
troops in waiting. Every one was needed at the front.

The Rebels made desperate attempts to capture the ford, and pressed us
hard on the right. This part of our line made little progress, and was
forced at times to assume simply the defensive.

Two squadrons of the Second Dragoons were withdrawn to assist in
covering the approaches to the ford.

The Rebels made another desperate charge. It seemed, this time, as if
they would carry all before them. But we stood our ground, and opened on
them at close quarters with the guns; and Ames' men plied their rifles,
making every bullet tell. The enemy lost heavily, and came to a stand.
The Dragoons dropped their carbines, and, drawing sabres, rushed upon
them, driving them off in confusion.

It was hot work all along the line; and, although our cavalry suffered
severely at times, nothing could surpass their gallant conduct.

The Sixth Pennsylvania, in charging the enemy near St. James' Church,
were badly punished by the Rebel artillery, and had to withdraw with
heavy loss of officers, men, and horses. Their gallant commander, Major
Morris, whose horse fell upon him, was left a prisoner in the enemy's
hands. The Second Dragoons also suffered severely at this point.

Much to our relief, the enemy now appeared to be attacked in the rear,
as they made no further attempt to capture the ford, and the force in
our front was evidently reduced.

A Rebel battery now opened from a bit of woods about six hundred yards
in front, while we were making disposition to advance our right, and our
guns unlimbered upon a knoll in the open fields in front and to the
right of the ford; and a lively cannonade ensued. I was skirmishing
nearer to the centre of the line with my own company and Company "F,"
the latter under command of Captain, then Lieutenant, Parker, and was
ordered with these two companies to support the guns on the knoll. On
the way, I was joined by Colonel, then Captain,