1862 August 7 Staunton, Va.

[from the diary of Joseph Addison Waddell, civilian employee of the Quarter Master Dept.]

Thursday morning, August 7th.

The reports in reference to Seward +c, alluded to on the 4^th, 

are contradicted. There has been a skirmish at Malvern Hill 

below Richmond, in which we were worsted and lost three 

pieces of cannon. The enemy are showing some activity in 

that quarter. A general exchange of prisoners is going on 

by order of President Davis. Gen. Pope and his officers, 

who may be captured hereafter, are excepted from the 

operation of the cartel, on account of the barbarous orders 

issued by Pope. The removal of the sick in Hospital here 

seems to have been caused by a disagreement between

the Surgeons. We have had a home full of company. 

Martha Waddell for some time - - Edmonia Do went to West 

View on Monday. Janetta + Frank Preston arrived Tuesday 

 night — going to West View this morning.

[transcript by the Valley of the Shadow project]

MSS 38-258