him that morning
to a Happy New Year, where the sound of battle is never heard?

No, there were no merry greetings, nor lively pealing of bells, for those
war-worn men; but instead was heard the roar of artillery, and the rattle
of musketry, and the groans and shrieks of the wounded and dying soldier,
mingled with that thrilling and strange cry of the horse on receiving his
death wound.

The fighting this day was confined principally to artillery, but at longer
range than the day previous, and consequently the slaughter was much
lighter.

The battle lasted through the day, with no material advantage to either
side; and at night both armies retained nearly their positions of the
morning.

Another night was passed on the battle-field.

THIRD DAY.

Early the following morning considerable skirmishing ensued, and continued
through the forenoon, with shifting of positions.

Between 3 and 4 o'clock in the afternoon, the Rebels, in strong force,
opened an attack on a single brigade of ours, which was posted near Stone
river, and in advance of our extreme left. Pressed by greatly superior
numbers the brigade was compelled to fall back, which they did in good
order, contesting every inch of ground, and making great havoc in the
enemy's ranks. Our reserve force soon pushed forward, with cheers and
yells, determined to do or die. With a shock that could not be withstood,
our brave men rushed upon the foe. Their columns shook--they wavered,
reeled, and fighting desperately, fell back, while the brave Union troops
pushed them at every step. Vainly did the Rebel General in command strive
to rally and turn back his horror-stricken legions. But furiously, more
furiously, did our noble men assail the rebellious foe, till the ground
was piled heap on heap with the slain, and the thirsty earth drank up
their life blood. And now, in utter confusion, the enemy gave way, and
soon were flying before us, like chaff before the wind.

Night had now set in, and darkness was gradually stealing over us; but
still we fought on, determined to achieve a glorious victory for our
country, and our firesides.

Our forces were now massed, and with cheers that made the welkin ring, we
charged down upon a battery of artillery, which had been pouring
destruction into our ranks.

So great was this onset, that again did the enemy give way and retire from
their guns, and fled in wild disorder back into the cedar thickets which
dotted the battle-fi