Page:Southern Historical Society Papers volume 17.djvu/385

 Itinerary of the Fourth Virginia Cavalry, 377

the service as first lieutenant of Company B (Chesterfield Troop) of the Fourth Virginia Cavalry, and became by successive promotions its colonel. He lost a leg at Spotsylvania Court House, but rejoined his loved command as soon as his wound healed. At the time of the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia he was in command of Fitz Lee*s old brigade.

It is authoritatively stated that a commission of brigadier-general for Colonel Wooldridge had been filled, and was about to be trans- mitted to him from the Adjutant General's Office when General Lee surrendered. Although a majority of the 4th Virginia Cavalry was surrendered at Appomattox Courthouse, as stated herewith, Colonel Wooldridge was not paroled until sometime afterwards, being with the force of the resolute Munford near Lynchburg. Munlord and Rosser, commanding divisions, having succeeded in cutting their way through the lines of Federal army, immediately made arrangements to continue the struggle. A printed order issued by Munford at Lynchburg, Va., April 21, 1865, glows with the undying spirit of resistance. The capitulation of General Johnston could only con- vince him of the futility of further resistance.]

Monday, March 27th. Left Mechanicsville ; camped for the night in Chesterfield county between Richmond and Petersburg.

Tuesday, March 28th. Went to Dinwiddie county, and camped for the night at Sutherland's Tavern.

Wednesday, March 29th. Laid in line of battle near Hatcher's creek, Payne's Brigade fighting, we supporting him ; camped for the night near Hatcher's creek.

Thursday, March 30th. Moved towards Five Forks ; Pickett's division and cavalry drove enemy back. While driving him back night overtook us ; we came back a short distance and went into camp.

Friday, March 31st. Attacked by enemy next morning. Pickett's division and cavalry driven by enemy at Five Forks; camped for the night at Station on Southside Railroad.

Saturday, April ist. Enemy pressing us all day, especially in the afternoon ; succeeded in checking him at Mulberry Inn, near the line of Amelia and Dinwiddie counties ; remained in breastworks here all night. Enemy charged in several times — repulsed.

Sunday, April 2d. We left about daybreak ; went three or four miles and remained until about 10 o'clock A. M. Enemy appeared, drove in picket, closely pressed us to Bevil's bridge on Appomattox river ; camped for the night near Bevil's bridge.