1861 September 23

[from the diary of William M. Cox of the Albemarle Border Guards]

9 A. M. Slept well last night--have a very fine day--p P. M. It was rumored to-day about noon that this command is to be taken to the East--We were ordered (for some purpose not known by us) to fall in promptly at two o'clock upon the firing of a signal--this we did---but to our great surprise the news came that the enemy had driven our picquets in and were on the top of the mountain and coming down upon us--at about 5 o'clock. Their advance guard and ours met and commenced a brisk fight--the enemy retired immediately--our loss nothng more than four wounded--Capt. Lewis (cavalry) and three of his men --loss of the enemy-----Expect hot work to-morrow---ordered to sleep with our eyes open and our arms close at hand--

MSS 38-211