254 Southern Historical Society Papers.
minutes longer. Sending him an encouraging reply, I continued to resist the enemy for some time, hoping to hear from General Ander- son that the way was open. Unfortunately his attempt had failed, and the enemy made his appearance in rear of Simms' brigade, at the same time he was engaged in front and flank. That officer attempted to extricate his command, but found it impossible to do so without confusion, as he was attacked on all sides. This con- dition of things being discovered by the other troops, all fell back towards the rear and left. I kept up something of a skirmish as the command retreated ; but after moving some four hundred yards I discovered that all who had preceded me had been taken by the Yankee cavalry, who were in line of battle across the road. I then directed the men about me and the members of my staff to make their escape in any way possible. I discovered afterwards that but one had succeeded, as the enemy had completed the circle around our position when General Anderson's line was broken. My losses in killed and wounded must have been considerable, but I have no means of estimating the number. The conduct of the officers and men of the command under these trying circumstances is beyond all praise, and worthy the reputation'of these veteran regiments. On no battlefield of the war have I felt a juster pride in the conduct of my command. I beg leave expressly to include in these just encomiums the little command of Lieutenant-Colonel Barham, and especially that officer.
I am, Major, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. B. KERSHAW, Late Major- General C. S. A. Major CAMPBELL BROWN,
Richmond, Virginia.
CAMDEN, April 29, 1867.
MY DEAR MAJOR : Your favor covering copy of my report came to hand this day, and you will please accept my thanks for the same. You are correct in your recollection of the position at Sailor's Creek ; Simms was on the right of the road. Please have the correction made in the original.
Yours truly,
J. B. KERSHAW. Major CAMPBELL BROWN,
Charlottesville, Virginia.
