Publisher's Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1910 edition. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER XI. RICHARD O'BRIEN'S WAR DIARY OF A CHIEF OPERA- TOR IN THE SIEGE OF RICHMOND AND PETERSBURG. HEADQUARTERS Army of the James, on the Peninsula before Richmond, Sunday, January 1, 1865.--This book (pocket diary) was handed me as a New Year gift by my friend, J. C. Rhodes, who distributes newspapers to the army. At 9 A.m. Hervey Nichols, my chief assistant, handed me a note signed by all the military telegraphers of the Army of the James (eighteen operators and the construction corps, under Mackintosh), accompanying a very beautiful album as a New Year gift, their photographs to be included when they can get them. I was very much touched by this proof of affection from the brave boys. At 11 A.m. went out with Nichols to witness the blowing up of Dutch Gap to complete the excavation of the canal, which General Butler hopes is to change the channel of the James River and circumvent the formidable Howlett House fortifications of the enemy. Operation delayed. General Butler, his staff, Mr. N. and I returned, and went out again at 1 P.m. Waited in the cold until 3:45, when the mine exploded, blowing out the earth to the water's edge, but failing most miserably to meet our expectation. It will require some time and much labor yet to enable our vessels to pass through. The Confederates shelled the gap and us. Monday, January 2nd.--Mr. King came into our mess. Smith received three lanterns for our men to use in patrolling the wires at night. I sent monthly report to A. B. Chandler, "D. I." (War Department.) Received a short letter from brother John at Fort Monroe: he wants to come to the front. I secured standing order from Lieutenant Merrill, quartermaster, to have our horses shod at all times. John Tinney was over from Grant's office at...