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of the forces (Col Brunnett being in comannd
of the two Regts we fixed up for a comfortable
stay as we were told that we would
probably ocupy this place ten day
A short exploreing tour disclosed the fact
that within a mile of camp we could
overlook the whole confederacy and I
shall ever remember the sight there
presented- you will remember that
this was Saturday the 19th the day on which
the battle began + from the look out the
two lines of battle could be discerned
although not very distinct as the whole
valley was one cloud of smoke + dust
The distance was too great to hear musketry
but the rear of Artillery was incessant
and the clouds of smoke ascending
showed us plainly their position: and
camp fires of the two armies sparkeled
brightly in the night air presenting a
beautiful picture but the scene lost
much of its beauty when we thought
of the suffering wounded soldiers that