[from the diary of William M. Cox of the Albemarle Border Guards]

9 A. M. Slept well last night–have a very fine day–p P. M. It was rumored to-day about noon that this command is to be taken to the East–We were ordered (for some purpose not known by us) to fall in promptly at two o’clock upon the firing of a signal–this we did—but to our great surprise the news came that the enemy had driven our picquets in and were on the top of the mountain and coming down upon us–at about 5 o’clock. Their advance guard and ours met and commenced a brisk fight–the enemy retired immediately–our loss nothng more than four wounded–Capt. Lewis (cavalry) and three of his men –loss of the enemy—–Expect hot work to-morrow—ordered to sleep with our eyes open and our arms close at hand–

MSS 38-211