Page:Confederate Military History - 1899 - Volume 7.djvu/594

Rh was particularly conspicuous in the gallant way in which he rallied the men. Major Hawkins’ two companies of sharpshooters did excellent service, and lost 32 men.

After McCook and Sheridan had been driven back Polk sent Patton Anderson's brigade forward against Negley, of Thomas’ corps, strongly posted at the cedar brake, and with an abundance of artillery. "Anderson moved forward his brigade with firmness and decision," General Polk reported. "The fire of the enemy, both artillery and infantry, was terrific. Such evidences of destructive firing as were left on the forest from which this brigade emerged have rarely, if ever, been seen. The timber was torn and crushed. Nothing but a charge could meet the demands of the occasion. Orders were given to take the batteries at all hazards, and it was done. This was one of the points at which we encountered the most determined resistance, but the onward movement of the Mississippians and Alabamians was irresistible and they swept the enemy before them, driving him into the dense cedar brake to join the extending line of fugitives."

A more detailed account of this gallant action is given by General Anderson. Manigault’s brigade, having been thrown into action by the right wheel of the army, called for reinforcements about 9 a. m. to charge a battery, and Anderson ordered up the Forty-fifth Alabama and Twenty-fourth Mississippi. They became hotly engaged soon after leaving their breastworks, and staggered, but rallied again under the fearful fire. The Thirtieth, Twenty-ninth and Twenty-seventh Mississippi were now ordered forward, swinging around on and keeping touch of elbow to the right. "Immediately in front and in short range of these regiments, the enemy had two batteries advantageously posted so as to sweep an open field over which they had to pass in their advance. The ordeal to which they were subjected was a severe one, but the task was undertaken with that spirit and courage which always