Camp of 46^th P.V.V.

near Calhoun. Ga

May 18^th 1864

 

Dear Bro.

                        This is the first oppertunity I have had for two weeks to write to you as we have been on the move every day of that time and for a week past laying in line of battle expecting an attack. Our Corp had been acting as reserve to the Main army for the first three days fight moving along the lines whenever the fighting was heaviest, always ready to move forward should our forces be overpowered. Saturday evening last found us moving to the extreme left of our lines. our Division got up just in time to save a Battery belonging to the 23^rd Corp. the Rebs were making a charge and were driving our men / from the Guns when two of the Regts of the 1^st Div. formed in line, made a counter charge, and drove the Johnneys back to their breastworks. this was after dark. no more fighting that night though we were expecting an attack at any moment. on Sunday at noon our Corp was ordered forward we drove the rebels about a mile into their fortifications and then commenced the work. their works were to strong for us to charge while they on their part attempted to drive us but couldnt make us budge an inch. our Regiment lay in line on the brow of a hill within 400 yds of the Rebel breastworks for about 4 hours, not one of us being allowed to show ourselves on account of Rebel Sharpshooters stationed in the trees in the woods in front of us they kept up continual fire until after dark Our Company was sent out on picket. there was but twenty yards space bettwen our pickets and the Rebs we could hear them talk and it would'nt do to show ourselves as it was moonlight and we could / be seen. about 11 Oclock the pickets commenced firing at each other and kept on until the whole line was engaged. this lasted for about an hour after which every thing was quiet. when our men advanced in the morning to the Rebel Breastworks they found that Johnney had skedaddled during the night. our whole Army was immediately put in motion after them on three roads. Our Corp caught up with their rear Guard last night and after heavy skirmishing drove them from their place

 

Cassville, Ga May 20^th. Our Corp reached this place last night. our Brigade is guarding the town but will leave some time tonight. I havent time to write more at present and I am not sure whether this will reach you all the boys are here, well and hearty. we lost but one wounded. Jerry Keef

 

My love to Mother Sisters & Bros to all inquiring Friends and some yourself from your Bro

                                                                                    Dan

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