acospesseramy seem RAS Firry-SixtH REGIMENT. 351 further developments. In the time thus gained reinforce- ments arrived, and we knew that with the Army of Northern Virginia we could successfully hold Richmond and Peters- burg against all opposing forces then in the field. With Major-General Hoke, there were now Ransom’s North Caro- lina, Lewis’ North Carolina, Walker’s (formerly Evans’) South Carolina, Corse’s Virginia, and Kemper’s Virginia Brigades. This division took position a short distance be- yond Swift creek. 11 May. Moved to Half-Way House. The enemy now appears in great force between us and Petersburg, occupying both the railroad and turnpike. We offer battle; but noth- ing follows beyond some sharp skirmishing. Ransom’s Bri- gade forms the extreme Confederate left, near the river. es a BATTLE OF 12 MAY. 12 May. This brigade is moved across the turnpike and posted near the winter quarters on rising ground to the right, facing Petersburg, forming now the right flank. In the afternoon, advanced down the railroad towards Peters- burg, and occupied breastworks at a point near where the fortified line crosses this road. Here the line terminates after changing its general course and running off at almost a right angle (towards the river on the left near -—— house). Our artillery is engaged with that of the enemy in the woods to the front. A line of skirmishers is scarcely formed and thrown out to our right and rear for a recon- noissance under “the fighting Quartermaster of the Forty- ninth,” Captain Cicero Durham, when they receive a volley from a line of battle in ambush, and this gallant leader and many of his brave comrades have fought their last fight. A rush is made by the enemy, and Generals Hoke and Ran- som, just arrived at the house for consultation, barely escape capture. On came the line as to an easy victory, but not as . Jos. M, Walker, 1st Lieut., Co. I. quick as was our command in leaping to the other side of the 2. A, C. Robertson, Ord'ly-Sergt.,Co. G. 6. C “ 7 a . W.G. Graves, Captain, Co. i spy 7 Ee as aa Fame Ree get gpenea breastworks. After a sharp fight they were repulsed by the 4. L. Harrill, Captain, Co. I Eo Oe ene Sanenen So & 5 ‘ : 9, Chas, M. Payne, 2a Licut.. 8. J. W. Shepherd, 1st Lieut., Co. K. -di i i Chas. M. Payne, 2d Lieut., Co. K. (Picture in Supplementary Grow gih vol.) perigee aoe of a aS - re Fifty 3m