Page:Confederate Military History - 1899 - Volume 4.djvu/133

Rh assistance, and while there were frequent advances and retreats, remained on their line till withdrawn for Sharpsburg. On the left, Rodes gallant brigade of 1,200, attacked by the whole of Meade’s division of Hooker’s corps, made one of the most memorable stands of the war. Although fairly enveloped, he reformed and fought repeatedly, his men perfectly controlled, until at dusk Evans brought him relief enough to save him from destruction. Hatch’s division advanced in beautiful order between Meade and Gibbon. As these brigades moved forward at first, there was not a Confederate soldier to oppose them. The brigades of Kemper and of Garnett from Longstreet arrived, jaded and worn, but just in time to form in the face of Hatch. These two brigades, together not numbering over 800 men, fought Hatch’s men, numbering 3,500 men, and held their own until both sides, exhausted, fell asleep within 100 yards of each other.

Gibbon made, just before dark, a furious attack on Colquitt’s men posted across the pike. This assault was especially directed against Colquitt’s two brave regiments behind the stone fence. Gibbon lost 318 of his 1,500 men, but failed to move Colquitt from his advantageous position.

During this day of scattered battles, many gallant officers and men on both sides were killed or wounded. Of the Federals, General Reno, commanding a corps, was killed by the Twenty-third North Carolina. General Hatch was wounded, as were also Colonels Gallagher and Wainwright, both commanding brigades. The death of General Garland was a serious loss to the Confederates. Daring to the point of recklessness, courteous, just and upright, he had completely won the affection of his Carolina brigade, which followed him with the utmost loyalty and confidence. —