Page:History of the Ninth Virginia Cavalry in the War Between the States.djvu/52

46 The advance of General McClellan's army having crossed the Potomac river east of Harper's Ferry, we broke our camp on the 28th of October, and, after marching rapidly by Berryville, bivouacked near the Shenandoah. Many of our horses were disabled from a singular disease in the feet. Resuming the march at early morn we crossed the Blue Ridge at Snickersville, and, passing Bloomfield, camped for a day upon the road leading to Upperville. Captain Haynes, commanding Companies G and H, was left on picket before reaching Bloomfield. We moved from camp on the morning of the 31st, the Ninth Regiment in front, followed by the Fourth, Colonel Wickham commanding the brigade, and General Stuart accompanying in person. Our march was directed to Mountsville. Near this point Lieutenant Robinson, of Company C, commanding our advance guard, captured a picket of the enemy, having dashed upon them so suddenly that only a single pistol-shot was fired. He was complimented for his address and good management.

The command halted for a moment at the post of the picket, yet short as was the halt it served to notify some Federal officers of our presence. These were at a house close by, where they had ordered dinner. We at once commenced a charge. After moving at a gallop for a few hundred yards the cry of "Artillery" was heard at the head of the column. Nothing daunted, forward we dashed, knowing not, and seemingly caring little, upon what arm of the foe we charged. Upon reaching the fork of two roads a camp of the enemy pitched in the open space near the junction of the roads, was seen. They were panic-stricken and in great confusion. Some who had mounted made at full speed for the woods in the distance; others pushed for the roads, while some, motionless from fright, stood still by their horses. Two squadrons were ordered upon either road, and the chase became intensely exciting. Breaking from the ranks, our troopers, singly and in squads, rode after the flying enemy. The rally was sounded in vain. The leading men were brought to a