Valentine G. Barney to Maria Barney
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As I finished my letter a few days since we were about starting
to the front, the Advance was only a reconnaisance, to
ascertain whether or not the enemy were in this vicinity. We
only went out eight or ten miles but found nothing of them
so returned the next morning. Yesterday I made my report to
Col Jourdan of all that transpired during the time I was in
command and he told me he had complimented the 9th Vt and
myself for our actions of the 2d and since but the Artilery
officers were centured and I think one Capt will be
courtmartialed. The enemy no doubt intended to capture the
whole Regt and admitted their disappointment we have got
about 45 missing- 13 were wounded and five killed. I came
within two inches of getting hit in the head and many balls
passed very near me I am thankfull that my life is still
spared. I am now occupying an old salt house for my hd qrs-
and am as comfortable as need be There are a thousand little
incidents that I might relate- but my time is now limited
for seventy more new recruits arrived day before yesterday
and it takes much time to get every
thing straightened out after such a mess. The Rebs left two
of their wounded at a house out near Gales Creek and I went
out and saw them yesterday. They were expected to die when
they were left so they were striped of their clothing and
left at this house to die but I think they will both
recover. They paroled some of our wounded and left them at
houses in this vicinity. I am real well and stand the
[bivouac], and salt Pork & Hard
bread finely. We get new tents to day and expect to get to
living soon. I hope to hear from you soon and get the news
that the Children are entirely well. I hope my horse will be
forth coming for I need another very much. I have a chance
to buy one here but expect the one from home so will let it
go till I hear from you. You may send the Box as soon as you
like I dont think of any thing more I want now.
Your Aff HusbandV. G. Barney