1862 June 25 near Richmond, Va.

[from the diary of Sgt. Z. Lee Gilmer, 19th Virginia, Co. B (Albemarle rifles)

25th June 1862
Cannonading has been going
on all day, more than usual. We
have orders to get 3 days rations of
hard bread, & lights out at dress
parade, not a spark to be seen
after dark & many other orders
on which I base my firm belief
that the great fight of Richmond
will begin this evening or tomorrow
(Thursday). The Pickets have been
fighting for the last two nights
& most of this morning. we must
have it very soon. Old Stonewall
will not stand with his hand
in his pockets. the signal flags
have been busy all day
We are no doubt on the eve of
the battle that will decide our
destiny.  May God be with us &
bless our arms.

MSS 4459