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. 1890 edition. Excerpt: ...them in retreat. They would fall slowly back in an irregular line, loading and turning about to fire at intervals, presenting quite a regular front as they stood at bay, but making a broken and demoralized line as the enemy's fire became too hot for them. Under this pressure they would sometimes break like a flock of sheep, and run panicstricken towards the rear. Then the oflicers would make strenuous efforts to restore order and bring out some semblance of discipline. Part of the line would halt, perhaps, and seek the shelter of a fence or building, as a ship might take refuge from a storm. In the midst of excitement, a regimental flag would be thrown to the breeze, and men to right and left would rally quickly into line at the inspiration. When the line of battle fell back because of severe fire or a lack of ammunition, reinforcements would be sent forward and the exhausted fighters rally to the rear, where they would soon recover their esprit de corps, and from being shaky individuals become again a disciplined body. I have seen a line of battle in a defensive position driven back by an overwhelming force who, dashing forward yelling like demons and frantically waving their little battle flags, would deliver a rattling fire. Such an attack was dificult to resist, and I have often watched our retreating forces making vain efforts to stem the overwhelming tide that swept them along in confusion. Bravely they held every piece of advantageous ground, clinging to rocks and hiding behind walls and trees, between times sending showers of bullets back at the on-coming foe. Now perhaps the enemy were compelled to halt; then our men with renewed spirit would take the offensive, and drive them back in defeat over the ground on which they...