Page:Confederate Military History - 1899 - Volume 7.djvu/687

198 road, and finding but two pieces of artillery in position and engaged, I directed my aide-de-camp, Captain Anderson, to bring up all the artillery and ordered General Buford to place it in action at once, which was promptly done. The battle was fierce and the enemy obstinate; but after two hours' hard fighting the enemy gave way, being forced back on his third and last line. Colonel Barteau had gained his rear, and by his presence and attack in that quarter had withdrawn the cavalry from the enemy's flank and created confusion and dismay to the wagon train and the guard attending it. The cavalry was sent back for its protection, and the enemy now in front made a last attempt to hold the cross-roads; but the steady advance of my men and the concentrated, well directed and rapid fire from my batteries upon that point threw them back and the retreat or rout began." After abandoning the cross-roads, Sturgis endeavored to take advantage of every favorable position on his retreat, but was speedily driven from each in succession. Wagons and ambulances were abandoned in such profusion that before reaching Tishomingo creek the road was blockaded and it was difficult for the Confederate artillery to get through. Though it was attempted to destroy the wagons loaded with ammunition and supplies, the pursuit was so hot that the Confederates were able to save most of these without injury. During the night the wornout Confederates rested, but resumed the pursuit at one o'clock in the morning, finding at the south prong of the Hatchie that the enemy had abandoned the rest of his wagon train, all his wounded and 14 pieces of artillery. At Ripley the Federals were found drawn up in line of battle, and were immediately attacked by Forrest with his escort and Wilson's regiment, but as soon as additional Confederate cavalry appeared the enemy broke, abandoning 21 killed, 70 wounded, and another piece of artillery. After this the retreat became a disgraceful flight, the men throwing away guns, clothing