On yesterday we retired from ^'the' eastern bank
of the river to where we are now encamped
with Wises Legion 4 or 5 miles from the Hawk's
Nest. Yesterday ^'the' 11th, a messenger arrived from
Gen. Lee informing us of the approach of Rosen-
crantz & advising to cross the River. This
should have reached us before the battle.
But fortunately it did not & we fought &
saved ourselves too. It is now evident that
Rosencrantz has abandoned the idea of forcing
his way by Lee & penetrating the State by
that route. This attack upon us was a
masterly move & proved Rosencrantz a man
with a high order of military talent.
Doubtless he will pursue us in conjunct-
tion with Cox & we must trust to our
feet to save us from so formidable a foe.
It is now 2 O'clock in the night & a consultation
is being held & doubtless it will be decided to
retreat towards Lewisburg at once.
Our scouts, who have just returned from the
Hawk's Nest report no signs of the enemy in
that direction. A small & inefficient guard was
left at Carnifax ferry, -- this evening Major
Hounshell, a brave, gallant young officer,
who has distinguished himself in both engagements,
was dispatched with a few companies to prevent
the crossing of the enemy & to block up the
road to the ferry. We all expect the Major
to do himself credit as doubtless he will.
To day I wrote home giving a hurried & discon-
nected account of the battle, also received
a letter from "Holkham" which was exceedingly
acceptable. Rumor says that Lee has defeated
the main column of Rosencrantz, however
no reliable information is received. His action
will controll our action. He will, I presume
immediately send us reinforcements.
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