THE CIVIL WAR DIARY OF JOHN G. MORRISON 1861-1865

April 2nd, Sunday. Came off picket at 9 A.M. The
inspection took place at 11 A.M. We were highly
complimented by the inspecting officer. Warm and clear in
the afternoon. A dispatch from Gen'l Grant was read,
announcing a great victory by "Galloping Phil" over the
rebels. "Bully" for him.
[64] April 3d, Monday. On brigade guard again today. Another
dispatch today from Gen'l Grant, announcing the evacuation
of Petersburg and Richmond by the Rebs and that they were
both in our possession. Besides, vast quantities of war
material and prisoners fell into our hands. Three-timesthree
were given with a will and the music was got out and
played the national airs. Jeff himself was not to be found
at 9 P.M. Orders were received for the regiment to break
camp, send all the dismounted men to the rear, and all the
good men and horses to join a party about to proceed up the
valley. Evening squally.
April 4th, Tuesday. Came off guard at 2 A.M. At daylight
"boots and saddles" sounded. We soon tore things down and
after some trouble got packed up. Three days' rations for
man and two for beast. About 8 A.M. we started and took
the road through Winchester for Newtown. Passed several
regiments of cavalry and a battery of artillery along the
road and took the advance. Halted on "Fisher's Hill." Our
company picket was stationed in the reb breast works.
Weather warm and pleasant. Dropped a few lines home.
[65] April 5th, Wednesday. Took up the line of march in the
extreme rear. About 8 A.M., passed through "Woodstock,"
which is quite a nice little place. The only union
sentiment visible was exhibited by some good-looking young
ladies who wore small national flags on their bosoms.
Halted at Edinburg and after backing, and filling for a
couple of hours, we camped on a piece of woods and made
ourselves comfortable. Had a visit from Hawk and Dick of
the 22nd. N.Y.
April 6th, Thursday. Reveille sounded at 3 A.M., "boots
and saddles" at 4, and at 5 we started on the back track.
Halted twice through the day, and about 4 P.M. we encamped
at Kerntown, four miles beyond Winchester. I received
three papers by mail but no letter. I do wish they would
come.
April 7th, Friday. "Boots and saddles" sounded at 10 A.M.
We started at 11, and about 4 1/2 P.M. we encamped about a
mile beyond "Berryville." Passed large bodies of infantry
moving in all directions. Just as I got supper cooked, I
155