very rotund figure, and, although well enough at home on the
quarter-deck, was not accustomed to the saddle. His weight was,
indeed, such as to preclude the idea of his being a skilled
horseman. It was, therefore, necessary that he go to the field in
some more comfortable as well as becoming manner. Thereupon a
carriage and four was provided, and in this stately manner the
gallant admiral proceeded to the front, at the head of his strange
command. I may add also, my son, that the movement of this force
afforded no little amusement to the numerous urchins that followed
it. On reaching the front, it took up a strong position, and made
ready to give the enemy a broadside whenever he made his appearance.
Some mischievous person reported that it was the intention of these
"Ancient Mariners" to support the cavalry, in the event of its being
attacked. Having brought them to the front, however, we must leave
them there, the quartermaster with his spy-glass keeping a sharp
look out for any stray craft that might appear in the offing.

I have been thus minute in describing these forces, in order that
you may form a just estimate of what General McDowell McCook had to
command.

Sunday passed away, and there was no appearance of General Early and
his army. Still the excitement in the city had not abated. Our good
President, I must tell you, was out along the lines nearly all day,
with the apparent purpose of encouraging the feeble garrisons in the
forts.

Early on Monday morning (the 11th of July, 1864), the smoke and dust
of the rebel column rose in the distance, and was clearly seen from
the defenses. News of this soon spread about, and our cavalry got