J. E. B. Stuart's handwritten account of his escape from Union forces. Unsigned manuscript is one lined page, 8 x 11.75, no date. Stuart writes of his escape at Verdiersville. In full, 'It was night but as it was highly important to communicate with Lee's Brigade with a view to crossing the next day, I sent my Adjt Gen'l Major Fitz Hugh on the road on which Gen F. Lee was to have marched - to look for him, remaining myself at Vidiersville. At Early dawn next morning I was aroused from the porch where I lay by the noise of horsemen and wagons and walking out bareheaded to the fence near by found that they were coming from the very direction indicated for Gen F. Lee - I was not left long in this delusion however for two officers Capt Mosby and Lt Gibson whom I sent to ascertain the truth were fired upon and rapidly pursued - I had barely time to leap upon my horse, just as I was, and with Major Von Borcke and Lt Dabney of my Staff, escape by leaping a high fence - The Major Who took the road was fired at as long as in sight but none of us were hurt - There was no aid assistance for 10 miles - Having stopped at the nearest woods I observed the party approach and leave in great haste but, not without my hat and cloak, which had formed my bed. - Major Fitz Hugh in his search for Gen Lee was caught by this party and borne off as a prisoner of war - Gen Lee's Brigade did not arrive till the night of the 18th. a day behind time - Not appreciating the necessity of punctuality in this instance he changed his course after leaving me, and turned back by Louiza CH. following his wagons which I had directed him to send by that point for provisions. By the failure to comply with Instructions not only the movement of the Cavalry across the Rapidan was postponed a day, but a fine opportunity lost to overhaul a body of the enemy's Cavalry on a predatory excursion far beyond their lines.' Scattered toning and soiling, several words crossed out and corrected by Stuart and a few spots, otherwise fine condition. COA John Reznikoff/University Archives and RRAuction COA.
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