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December 6th [1864] - We are again disappointed in receiving no orders to prepare for winter quarters. All manner of conjectures are rife. I think Gen. Early is actuated simply and solely by what he considers the good of the service, and is awaiting definite information as to the intention of the enemy, and ... if we could accomplish any commensurate good, would be willing again to go down the Valley and attack Sheridan, and if necessary stay there, although it would interfere with my long cherished desire to spend a quiet winter, but in my present position the public interest is to be considered before private preference...I am now commanding a Division.

                                                                                                                      --Bryan Grimes, CSA

Saturday 13th [1862, battle of Fredericksburg, Va.] - We returned [the rebel] fire and getting nearer the woods, we laid down, using our knapsacks to protect us from a galling fire, which issued from the woods, and also an enfilading fire from the artillery, which belched forth its murderous missiles, of shot and shell; we advanced within a hundred yards of the woods, and kept up a brisk fire, for some time; the rebel sharpshooters were up in the trees, picking off the officers, and the men fell thick and fast, and were carried off the field, fast as possible, by the brave men of the ambulance corps.

--John W. Jacques, USA