est length of
time we had remained in any one camp. But all things must have a
termination, and so did our stay here.

In the different dates above, have been given the items of interest which
occurred during our stay at Cripple Creek. But little else, aside from the
usual routine of camp life, had taken place.

CHAPTER XIV.

DEPARTURE FROM CRIPPLE CREEK.

Early on the morning of June 24th all were astir, and busily engaged in
preparing to march. The word was given to be ready at 7 o'clock. The
weather was quite cloudy, and indicated rain. At 8 o'clock it commenced
raining; and shortly after, we were on the move, having bid adieu to
Cripple Creek, which had so long been our home. The rain was now falling
heavily, and so continued through the whole day.

After crossing the creek, we took a South-east course. The roads in many
places were quite rough, but the country, generally, was level. We passed
through a fine farming section, and the crops mostly looked flourishing,
but somewhat backward, owing to the late spring frosts, which had delayed
planting.

A march of six or eight miles brought us out on the Murfreesboro and
Bradyville pike, and the roads were now in better condition. General
Wood's Division were here waiting for us to pass. A little further on, we
found the Second Brigade, General Hazen, waiting to join us. Shortly
after, we passed through the small town of Bradyville. About one mile
beyond this, at a creek, a skirmish took place between some of the First
Tennessee Cavalry and a party of Rebel Cavalry. Two of the Tennesseans
were wounded, and, as usual, the enemy "skeedaddled."

A halt was now made; and, after standing in the rain for an hour, we
finally turned off the road, and camped for the night in a piece of woods.
Thus ended our first day's march from Cripple Creek.

The next morning was again rainy. Made a move at 6 o'clock, and found the
roads rough and hilly. Had one very steep and bad hill to ascend, and
found it necessary to double our teams; but it was some time ere all the
guns and caissons were well at the top. We marched about five miles, and
then halted for the wagon train to come up. The weather had now partially
cleared. At 5 o'clock, seeing no prospect of the trains arriving that
night, we finally camped. Some firing heard in the distance, on our left.

Next morning, the train had not reached us, and we could not move without
it, as we were without provisions or forage.