R., Co. C, 1st Battalion Maryland Infantry, On the Battle

BALTIMOREANS AT MANASSAS.

Richmond, July 27, 1861.

Friend B.: – Your kind favor 27th ult. reached me at Manassas Junction just as we arrived, on our way to the field of action of Sunday last. I managed to read it while “double quicking” to take part in the glorious victory of that day. You have, of course, heard all the particulars in reference to the battle – how completely we routed old Abe’s minions, the vast amount of ammunition, cannon, arms, provisions, wagons, horses, &c., captured, the immense number slain and wounded, besides prisoners taken. Our boys were in the fight, and they did their duty manfully. We went into the battle singing “Gay and Happy.” About the time of our arrival on the field the day was almost lost. The superior force of the Yankees kept them continually provided with fresh troops, while our comparatively small number kept us constantly engaged. Our position was on the extreme left of Johnston’s wing, to repel an attempt being made to turn our left flank. Right nobly did the boys do their duty. We allowed the enemy to approach within about two hundred yards, (meanwhile suffering a severe fire,) when the order was given to fire. So well-directed was it that they staggered; another volley confused them, and a charge settled the business. They threw away everything that impeded their progress, blankets, haversacks, muskets, coats, &c. Our boys captured a great many of them, completely fitting themselves out. The haversacks were most acceptable, being provided with about three days’ provisions. Having had but little to eat for three days, and none at all on that day, we pitched in and had a sumptuous feast. The Colonel of our regiment, Elzey, was highly complimented by Beauregard, being called the “Blucher of the day,” and was also promoted on the field to Brigade General. Our loss, considering the severe fire to which we were exposed, is very small, only one killed in the regiment, with bout ten or fifteen wounded, none fatally. The one killed was from Frederick. We have two wounded in our company, Sergeant John Berryman, being struck by a Minie musket ball. He is in excellent hands, at the residence of Dr. Beall, in this place, and is doing well. The other is private Wm. Codd, formerly of the Eagles. He was struck by a piece of an exploding shell on the thigh, a very slight wound. In Captain Murray’s company no one was injured. One of our Captains captured the “Stars and Stripes.” I should like to hear how the news was received in the Monumental City.

I am now here on furlough. The exposure and hardships to which we have been subjected, aggravating my throat to such an extent that I am suffering intensely, in fact, can scarcely speak at all; will probably, in the opinion of some medical men, have to be discharged from the service. There is one consolation, I have been in one battle, and struck a feeble blow for the freedom of my friends at home. Our regiment have had a hard time of it. Being under Johnston’s command at Winchester, and he having been playing a game of chess with Patterson, caused us to be moved about continually. Johnston completely outwitted Patterson at his own game, to which, in a great measure, is to be attributed our victory of the 21st. In answer to your query as to what drill is used here, will answer; Our company drill the Baltimore City Guard drill, the balance of the regiment Hardee. There is yet no regularly established drill, each company in the army using the drill most suited to their notions. Our drill has been very much admired and praised, especially as the boys do it right. What has become of the fourth company? You don’t mention it. Played out? Give my regards to all the right boys.

Yours, &c.,
R.

The Baltimore (MD) Sun, 8/8/1861

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