The pretense, therefore, that the advance in July,
1861, was prevented by the want of transportation and of
supplies is wholly untenable."
I will now make the promised extracts from reminiscences of Colonel
(then Captain) Lay, which were sent to a friend, and handed to me for my
use. The paper bears date February 13, 1878. After some preliminary
matter, and stating that his force consisted of three cavalry companies,
the narrative proceeds:
"I was under orders to be in the saddle at 6.30 A. M., July 21,
1861, and to report immediately to General Beauregard at his
headquarters. About 7.30 A. M. I accompanied him and General
Johnston to a position near to Mitchell's Ford, where for some
hours we remained under an active fire of the long-range guns of
the enemy upon the opposite hills. When the unexpected flank
movement of the enemy was developed, with the generals named, we
rode at rapid speed to the left, when General Beauregard
immediately rode to the front, General Johnston taking position
near and to the left of the Lewis house.... About 3.15 P. M.,
Captain R. Lindsey Walker, with his battery, took position to
the left and in front of the Lewis house and commenced firing. I
was near him when the shot from his battery was fired, and
watched its effect as it swept through the columns of the enemy,
producing perfect confusion and demoralization.
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