Green Texas

Preface

The years between 1850 through 1865 were very device about slavery where all of this came to an end on April 9, 1865 at the McLean resident in the village of Appomattox Court House, Virginia. When General Lee signed the piece treaty putting the end to the southern rebellion and freeing all slaves. But the struggle went on for several months before the word reached all the scattered Southern Army units. Though this did put the question of slavery to rest but the Southern States continued on not letting the Blacks stand along the Whites and this is another story.

Though at the end of the Rebellion (Civil War) the US Army found willing freed male slaves wanting to service in the military, that soon set them into a very high standing with the Natives in the west when they tried to lay harm against the 9th and 10th cavalry, honoring them with the name, Buffalo Solders. Denoted by their close-cropped black curly hair.

The bases of the narration is at the end of the North-South conflict, as the three major characters serving in the Union Army were making ready to go back home with a new found friend. These three were molded together in separate early battles during the rebellion into a Union Cannon Battery commanded by the lead character, Captain Chester Green. Also during the years after the struggle all travelers including solders wearing Blue or Gray heading home had to journey through unsettled states and territories, now being filled with gangs of unsavory men at this time of history were called Ruffians. Where the core of this low scum had out skirted the call to arms by either side during the conflict, that were causing severe harm in location not marshaled by the law. Then the ones who killed just for the pleasure of it that served in the Union or Confederate armies at the end of the war joined these groups or formed new gangs.

This story opens at one of the US Army supply depots located on the Mississippi River at Memphis, Tennessee, October 1865, several months after the end of the rebellion. It had become one of the major facilities for supplies and mustering out men that served in north or southern army into civilian life. While receiving and sorting through all types of weapons being gathered up from both decommissioned armies, along with riding and pull stock, then selling off the low grade weapons and horses, while shipping the best of both up the Mississippi River to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.

The US Congress only a few months after the end of the conflict between the states designated Fort Leavenworth as the major fort to serve the military west of the Mississippi River. Where it soon became the major supply depot for arms and horses, plus gathering and dispatching infantry and cavalry units into the unprotected west.

The leading chapters of this narration was forced awake during a ground-shaking thunderstorm, that was lead by bright lighting and the accompanying roar of heavy rain that sets the tempo of this novel. Also the opening scene during this happening had enveloped soldiers stationed at the Memphis Supply Depot several hours before dawn that were sleeping in tents staked out across a meadow. Men who are placed under sever trauma or battle conditions have to live with the unwanted memories, where most try to force them deep into their mind. Though during sever happening, like loud thunder that mimicked the feeling and sound of cannons can be over whelming and at times bring these subjects to the surface either in dreams or revealing dreaded sickening thoughts while awake.

Where this severe rain and thunderstorm help bring out one of the major dramatic happenings that plagued the lead character, Captain Green. He was now in one of these bastardized dreams that many nights had plagued him, being locked in a battle with hell happening all around. Then when the thunder accompanied by bright lightning brought him awake, its turbulence kept the savagery of the dream alive that also forced out images of an unwanted extreme blood letting action that became intermingle with this nightmare’s calamity.

Captain Charles (Chas) Green, a conscript officer, last station after the end of the war was the commandant of the Memphis Supply Station. This gave him a front row position to buy surplus muskets, pistols and horses to take home and sell, also private contractors, plus solders and workers at these stations were able to do this too. So when Charles Green departed for home with three close friends, that followed his lead and bought a large number of retired military horses. Plus with the distance they would travel with these mounts, that they would lead behind them it in a string. The word string had an added meaning during the war as the cavalry moved horses to units led by ropes tied to halters. This was an easier way for a few men to move large number of mount that were kept in a near single line, where horses became accustom being lead this way.

It was the first week in April 1866 when the foursome departed Memphis Station with their seventy-five horses, a large number of good side arms and muskets in packs placed on wood cross bucks, plus twenty used saddles tied on some of these mounts, knowing that all of these items were a wanted commodity in Texas and surrounding territories as trading goods and a excellent way to put cash in their pockets. Though they would have to watch out for and outskirt low types known to be waiting on the different roads to relieve travelers of their goods.

Even returning solders wearing either color of uniform knew that these men would take by force anything they carried and most were killed. With the large number of horses in tow it would make a grate prize, so they had to play a more cautious game in the leading months before departure. As the four bought their special riding stock from the large amount of mounts that passed through their camp, that they quickly moved to a secluded corral just off the post. Even after mustering out, it was to stay there a few more days dumping their uniforms and change into clothing worn by the average traveler.

Their plan to deceive any followers was by heading out at first light, leaving tracks towards and onto the main pike heading east leading two strings of horses each. Then three hours later with no other travelers in sight, they would separately step off the road to the north. Next travel in a wandering way till midday before swing back across that major east-west pike, when absent of travelers and continue south paralleling a pre-scouted trail. They would meet up just before the last light on this path and head for their first dry camp with no fire a half-mile off the trail.

So for the next few days it was to continue south on this track, still bedding down with no fire to keep their being out of sight, before turning west towards a special location on the Mississippi River. Here they will camp till a hired river steam powered barge arrives to carry them and their stock down river to the east shore of Arkansas. Then they would head across this state burning all the daylight into the Oklahoma Territory heading for a ranch that was home of one the four. Then rest up there a few days before the remaining three departed south to Fort Worth, Texas and spend a few days at next man’s home. Again Green and his now closes friend, Al Cook would continue across the hill country of Texas to El Paso and his father’s ranch.

These precautions held together while using the trails in Tennessee. But only lasted a few days on Arkansas’s soil and these types of calamity continued through Oklahoma Territory, where ruffians and Indians caused troubles. Though in Texas while heading for the Green Ranch near El Paso, more problems came from Comancheros and Indians. It was only from their well thought out plans and close knowledge of each other’s battle skills, plus a firepower trick that Green picked up in Missouri fighting the southern separatist. That used a large number of pistols to gain the upper hand by out shooting troops with only a one shot musket and a single pistol.

So each in this group carry around their waist in holsters two Army .44 pistols. Plus two .36 navy four inch barrel Colts, one holstered near the belly on the pistol belts and the second in a homemade shoulder holster. Plus four more Army .44 pistols in holsters that were tied off just ahead of the saddle, two on each side in hand’s reach. Then to finish off their firepower, each had a larger fist .58 cal. seven shot lever action Spencer carbine repeater and two tub holders containing six ammunition tubs each. That would quickly lode seven rounds through the butt in the carbine giving them plenty of unexpected continuous firepower.

Though even at home Chas Green found trouble brewing from new land tax laws and the returning solders having their land taken from them for nonpayment. This problem also increased as men and companies with large sums of cash earned during the war were buying up these properties. Were many stretched this law by using ruffians to do their bidding and this was where Green became involved when he had a scuffle with one of the bunches at an Apache village he once called home.

At the family ranch, Green and his friend Al Cook worked horses as therapy to relieve stress from the last years of war stress. Though things changed when several Texas Rangers and the man who years before hired him into that service came onto the ranch. This lasted only a few years before he ran off to join an army in Missouri, just months before the Southern revolt broke out.

Also at this meeting an officer he fought with, was now heading the US Marshal Department out of Washington, DC asked for the two’s service. So as Federal Marshals, Green and Cook started working in northern Texas protecting a government surveying team from ruffians. This bunch was mostly ex Civil War Solders from both causes, now worked for a land grabber that had used the war for their own enrichment and were doing the same in the land grabbing business.

Part One

Chapter 1

The Lasting Effects of War

Near blinding flashes of lightning pierced the darkness! Climaxed by ground shaking thunder, drowning out the growing roar of rain pelting down on the sod and white tents that were staked down in this field. Soon the noise between the thunder and rain became so intense that men sleeping in these tents were forced awake, only wishing for it to stop. One of these men torn from sleep was the commandant of this station, Captain Charles (Chas) Green. Then the second ground shaking blast told the five foot eight, one hundred seventy five pound muscular frame man lying on a cot it was not a nightmare. As this calamity continued to grow around his tent sending its winds whipping the walls, this also relayed the message that the sod floor would soon be flooded by rain being push under its skirt.

With this intense noise Green knew that it would almost be impossible to go back to sleep. So it was to wait it out in the darkness being interrupted by flashes of lightning and roar from thunder. As his right hand found the remainder of a half smoked cheroot, lying in a small metal dish on a folding camp table by the head of the cot. Then resent the same hand with its fingers fumbled through several small wooden stick Lucifer lying near the dish, picking up one, then after finding its head, drug that cap on the tabletop igniting it. Still perched on the left shoulder pressing into the cot that slightly raised the upper body, as the hand brought this flame towards the short cheroot held in his lips, eyes squinting to reduce its brightness. A quick shake put an end to the flame, before placing it in the four-inch wide tin dish.

Now lying back with his head on the pillow facing upward, slowly drawing in the tobacco smoke that was exhaling past the Cheroot clinched in the front teeth and partly open lips. Only noticing the red glow just below his nose between the flashes of lightning that instant illuminated everything in the white tent into a bright glowing light. Not knowing what time it was or even caring to look at his pocket watch lying next to the small dish, only that it was still dark and did not have to get up till the sun rose. When Green arrived here he was third in command and a tent was his quarters. Though as the two higher rank officers departed for home, leaving the wooden commanders quarters for him, he chose to stay in his tent.

So it was to waiting for the next flash of lightning to pronounce the on coming crash of thunder. Then listen to its rattle that ran across the valley mimicking the sounded made by a full barrage of cannons. While his mind did the slow count between flash and rumble, now no longer than three, then two as the storm grew more intense as it traveled just above their Memphis, Tennessee Station.

With each enunciation of thunder from the storm its volume increased and was still mimicked cannon reports. This disturbance dislodged hidden unwanted images of near death experiences confronted during battles in the near past years, that were buried deep in the subconscious. The problem was that these old calamities were now becoming full motion black and white images being displayed on the surface of his mind. Where one major confrontation continued to take front stage and could not be blinked away. It had been the most aggressive and near fatal face-to-face encounter with Johnny Rebel in the four years of war.

With no space between each bright white flash and the near instant massive cot shaking thunder that sent his thoughts slipping in and out of this event, that also passed unwanted shivers through the body. Though each time this picture surfaced, it was mentally shoved back down, but not having anything else to occupy his mind these flashbacks took over.

It was the final battle in the Rebellion over Nashville, Tennessee the capital of that state just before Christmas 1864, that formed nearly four months before Grant forced General Lee into the April 9th meeting in the town of Appomattox Courthouse, Virginia. Where Lee surrendered the Northern Army of Virginia. With this clambering out of his mind, Wow! That was only ten months ago!

Then the next large claps forced this mind deeper into this memory that started in late August 1864, involving his company of 200 men managing three battery of sixteen cannons, 150 horses and 30 wagons holding their hand weapons, ammunition, powder and supplies. Now jammed together with other units of artillery and infantry shipped on the Mississippi river from different locations to reinforce the port at Memphis, Tennessee. Knowing that just weeks before was hit by a daring night raid preformed by CSA General Forrest when un-observing sentries let his command of several cavalry units pass through their stations giving him the city. Where he laid a heavy hand on it, then withdrawn, turning the town once again into a heavy armed river port.

Remembering as of now, his responsibilities had expanded way above the number of men and cannons for an officer just wearing Captain’s bars, usually one hundred fifty or so men and six cannons. Though the number of cannons in his band of artillery had expanded over the last two years, gun by gun along with their artillerymen pulled from the remains of units that were pulverized during battles.

Yes it was not quite a month later, in the last days in November, Grant called for more troops to back up Sherman in the east. Sending half of this hodgepodge of reinforcements including his cannons, hundreds of men and same number of filled wagons on the move north to backup Nashville’s security and relieve some of those commands to go further east. But now their units had to travel over land because all the riverboats were tied up shipping supplies to Grant from the northern States.

So his and the other commands were sent on a long march cross country being beaten by rain and ice storms, while traveling over road surfaces frozen in the mornings to over ankle deep mud by the afternoon. This path ran through rolling hills, crossing many wet drainages, were most of the bridges were destroyed and also barged across the Tennessee River. All in a hurry up mode as they headed north-east using every bit of daylight from dawn to full darkness to squeeze out seventeen miles a day to place this joint force into the defensive fortifications around Nashville.

A week into this march a runner informed them that CSA General Hood’s Army of the Tennessee had followed General Schofield troops to Nashville. That was now digging in on a string of low easterly running hills matching just miles from the Unions line of earthworks. The runner’s statement was that even after Hoods heavy losses during his relentless push against Schofield troops, he now was showing preparation to lay siege on the battlements facing his line.

So mid morning, six days later, December 9th still being plagued by ice cold rain, their drenched muddy-legged contingency joined other units making ready to defend Nashville against Hood’s Confederate army. At this time their battle units were hurriedly inserted into the newly formed skirmish line containing several commands now stretched miles south west from Nashville’s major fortifications, across the well Oak and Southern Pine treed valley tying into the Cumberland River, all facing Hood’s .

Army.

The only problem with this, Green found his unit once again thrown together with companies that were under manned as his and placed along side unfamiliar ones who’s record and most of all their officers and men were unknown or even tested. The only way one could guess how old and battle wise these units were was by their uniforms, dingy and well worn or brand new. So with this his batteries joined arms with other companies of infantry and artillery they had marched in with, plus new units of cavalry and infantry already in place.

As it happened his sixteen mixed cannons now ten howitzers and six rifles and the other two battery of five howitzers each they traveled with were inserted into and under the command of Major General Andrew Jackson Smith to reinforce his XVI Army. Then several days later at the officers call, Smith laid out General Thomas battle plan, it was not to wait for the Confederates to make a move, his aim was to go after Hood and wipe out his army. It would start with a distraction two mornings from now, on the fifteenth of December at day brake, where General Steedman force would lead a lone charge against the far eastern wing of the Rebel line.

While the remaining armies were not to engage the enemy in front of them, it was important that the Confederates get completely focused on the eastern end. Then late in the middle of that afternoon Smith and the other commands lined up next to him would quickly press their armies forward and lay a hard hand on the remainder of the Confederate line.

At this point in time Green was pulled up front and handed a special task. Setting nearly in the middle of the path that Smith’s Army would travel were two separate hills that now anchored redoubts brisling with cannons. The General had learned that Green’s artillery unit contained 3-inch rifle cannons that could reach out over a mile and he needed their help. These six rifle pieces were to be Smith’s long reach to soften these two fortified hills setting alone a mile in front of his path that were set nearly a mile and a half in front the major Confederate line. So to stay within the wants of their commander, General Thomas, as the remainder of the line was to delay their charge and be his rabbit out of a hat.

But to do this Green’s rifles would have to be slipped into place nearly two miles out front of the Union’s stagger line, during the darkness the night before the attack. Then midday as the Smith troops moved forward from their skirmish line, Green’s rifles would start laying exploding rounds onto the two earthworks.

The problem was getting the six rifle cannons with their ammunition loaded limbers quietly within range of the two breastworks, also this would place them well ahead of their armed force. At this point in time Green’s three battery groups, like the two other companies of artillery he traveled with were still tied to their limbers waiting to be positioned, now they moved close to the backs of an expanded infantry brigade commanded by Colonel Ridley. But not unsaddled.

Chapter 2

Being a part of Colonel Ridley’s command they laid out the plan to insert his six 3 inch rifles ahead of their standing line. Where nearing the end of this day’s light Green followed four of the Colonel’s men on foot to shown him the targets, as they passed stealthily through their skirmish line. Then continuing across the open ground through and under the half nude broadleaf Oak forest that lay some six hundreds yards ahead of their solid line. These men were good and knew the terrain well as they escorted him nearly two miles onto a series of three small stair step, joined hills thought to do the job.

After a half hour on these rises with darkness setting in, finding that only the lead and smallest hill fit the task to place the two Rebel held peaks about a mile off and within the rifle’s1800 yard reach. Another plus for Green’s cannons was these two breast-works were north-east on separate hills well beyond their Confederate Napoleon cannon’s known maximum1200 yard reach, if they tried to answer his rifles.

But this did put something else into the mix, only the two leading hills were timber and the needed third was a treeless low grass covered knob, placing his guns out in the open. When they returned and gave the Ridley the good news, he set the plan into motion having the long reach rifles uncoupling from their limbers. Where they would use manpower to move them to the second hill and stay in the trees, then at the set time slip them forward.

So as the darkness set in on the evening of the14th still with the added cover of heavy cold rain, plus five hundred yards west of his position on the skirmish line was a noisy display of two battery containing eleven cannons being rolled up into this line. This gave the ninety man company of a infantrymen and his gun crews of seventy men cover to physically roll six rifle cannons and same number limbers, in a loose single file line that crossed five hundred yards open field where its tall grass was now matted into a trampled slick muddy mess and continue on under the nude broad leaf Oak forest up to the top of the second hill. This procession of one hundred and sixty men pushed or pulled cannons and their limbers for nearly two miles to the top of the second timbered hill, arriving just an hour before the light grew in the east.

Remembering that only for the men leading this small convoy having knowledge of these woods and could feel their way in total black of night and poring rain, this feat was completed. That came along with hundreds of cuss words and yells from pain that somehow were kept within these men’s heads. Where at the end of this task these tired troopers only treat was to rest and wait for that afternoon’s event.

Though before they pushed their loads on and occupied the smaller hill about half mile ahead of them, some young Pine trees would be cut for blinds to be placed around the pair of three rifles, when located onto preset position to help deceive the confederates. Then at the set time Green’s gunners would send exploding rounds just above the Rebel cannons to remove their gunners and give Smith the use of these weapons when passing the two separate fortified hills.

The plan was when the rifles were set the company of infantry would slip two hundred yards below the cannon’s pickets and set up in a defensive position. Where all of them knew that when these six rifles started firing, the enemy would be down on them in a hart beat. Their hope was within that hour this lead gun emplacement would be in the swarm of their own troops ready to take on the Confederate troops.

Also hours before departure Green had also pressed Ridley to sneak in his ten howitzers in a battery of five cannons early that next morning at first light if the low clouds and heavy rain continued, this would help secure the ground around his long rifles and back up the company of infantry used to move them in. Also be in place to pound the area ahead of the Colonel’s advancing troops just before they passed by these hills.

He liked the plan when Green told him how his company had did this maneuver before by tying rages around the wheels, chains on their harnesses and singletrees. Then would slow walk their muffled ragged wrapped hoofed pull horses onto the hill above the rifle cannons. Plus knowing that the Confederates were dug in only a mile from these hills and if things come undone they would have some help. So during the discussion the Colonel added another infantry companies with the two batteries ready to fill in on the flanks around Green’s canons if needed. Then they would rejoin when he charged by.

Set in his mind at this early hour with the storm pounding the sky above his tent, knowing that before this feat was completed that every man, even the officers and himself had a hand in pushing on some part of a cannon, wheel or box to get the first task done. Even now his body felt relief from the strain though it was only a memory, as the calamity continued on above the tent. Also a smile filled his face as that day’s vision filled into place.

Though as they rolled onto the second hilltop near first light the temperature fell as the rain ceased, with a clearing sky, where the weather gods took kindness on then again. Now in the fading darkness the landscape was starting to be painted with a sparkling white crystals veil being formed by heavy hoarfrost, that was producing dense ground fog that shortly raised to the top of the second hill.

Remembering under this growing fog blanket he sent Smith’s plan into motion and started moving the 3 inch rifles down onto the smaller hill, where half way through this duty came the distance the sound of cannons drifting in. Telling that, General Steedman had started the battle!

Knowing they still had to use silence when rolling the rifles and their caissons down to their preset position, while placing blinds made from the small Pines around them. Then nearing the end of the second hour Captain Elders moved his company of troops into a defensive position near the base of the small bald hill facing the confederate line.

With this picture completed Chas’s mind flashed to the next moment as time and space was instant, now back on the second hilltop seeing that the fog cap was slowly dropping. This enabled the needed view to hone in on the two hills holding Rebel earthworks, about a mile away. As the two redoubts starting to climb out of their white cloud, the rising sun was also sending its light dancing across its glistening surface. So it was back down into the fog again to set up a relay of signalmen who would use hand signs only to pass needed fine adjustments for the long gun’s rounds that would soon be sent onto the two artillery installations.

All the while this memory was continuing to be expanded with aided from the thunder around the tent that came with the physical walk back up the hill while making sure that these signalmen could see each other. At this point of time from the northeast came the nonstop roar of cannons in the distant along with the faint muskets fire, making the statement that the General Steedman was fully engaged.

Knowing that Captain Elders and his command of infantry could hear the same message in the air and would not need to send a runner.

So it was to wait with the view of the rifle’s targets on the two hills continuing to rise up out of the fog cap, where in his mind it was an hour later and was surprised to see a known runner come up to him. Lieutenant Master sent me ahead to tell you that his five howitzers will be here soon!

Chapter 3

Now in a state of half dreaming with unwanted thoughts trying to take control, forcing Captain Green to be totally involved in this calamity. Lying face up on his bunk while still lightly drawing on his cheroot, though even with closed eyes could see bright lightning flashes through their lids. Also knowing that the roof of his tent was briefly lit up just before the near instantly earth shaking thunder. This on going external event enhanced the point in time where Lieutenant Master had his command of five howitzers already tucked on the slope below the rifles under the dense fog.

These cannons were now set in a protective pattern about fifty yards beneath the rifles pointing south in a slight arc that also covered the infantry command spread out in a line below the bare nob. Along with a string of signalmen spaced down through the fog that would use hand communications from a gunnery spotter to answer Captain Elders needs.

Remembering that he was thankful when Masters conveyed when coming in, that within an hour the Colonel would be sending Second Lieutenant Willis off with another infantry companies, because the cover from the dense fog was still holding the countryside. Then with no feeling of time passage he found himself talking to 2nd Lieutenant Willis and Captain Perkins commander of the second company of infantry that marched in with the cannons.

We will probably have the ‘Hounds from Hell’ on us as soon as they hear our rifles! So as of now don’t uncouple your cannons and hold them in a group down on the bench between this hill and the bare nob holding the rifles, we will place them in the direction when needed. Ok Perkins, take your men down below the bald hill and connect up with the west side of Elders core and string out to the west from his last man. Also pass on the word to have him move fifty yards further east under our rifles!

Perkins hand move quickly and placed his right-gloved index finger tip against the brim of the campaign hat, giving his reply. As Chas continued, I will catch up with you after getting my guns set!

Willis had advised him that the rifle’s six sets of pull and several riding horses were tied off behind his five howitzers. Adding, Sergeant Cook also added packs onto your horses with extra powder and three inch ball bags for your rifles. He said when you start forward this is to help refill the rifle’s limbers.

With no relief from the continuing flashes of lightning or decrease in the volume of the accompanying thunder, set the next scene in his mind. The two were watching the last of Perkins men march down into the fog. When below and to their right, came sporadic musket shots that soon changed into a constant roar. Remembering during this happening he told Willis to hurry the moving of his cannons down and south from the bench, keeping them below the bare-knob. Knowing that both battery were under the gray fog cap and would mask their blast and smoke when fired. But it would be impossible to see their targets. Master had his relay already set so he mentioned to Willis.

"Set up three of your howitzers facing the musket shots and two towards the south to protect the joint of the two companies. Also at the same time get a string of signalmen down the hill with a gunnery spotter to connected up with Captain Perkins. He will send up distance and adjustments needed to help support those troops. About then one of Lieutenant Master’s howitzers sounded off telling them that Captain Elders was feeling the same pressure.

Remembering as Willis’s second howitzer was being quick walked down the rise and being consumed by the fog going softly out of sight with its accompanying pickets, the third howitzer’s pickets started shooting towards the west. With in the blink of an eye several Confederate solders came running out of the fog and were greeted by hot musket balls. Now these pickets were using the limber boxes as a shield when more soiled gray coats appeared, but this time the Rebels were ready for action with rounds from their muskets whizzed by. Though the pickets did not budge but pressed down on the Rebels as they reloaded.

With this new turmoil brewing, Green recalled that he sent a squad of his horse handlers to sweep the right, as the last two cannon sets dropping down the hill were being devoured by the gray fog. Things did not quieted down as he and Willis ran to catch up with his cannons gathering on the bench between the two hills.

Having the incursion of the Rebel troops up into their area he added new steps for Willis to set up the five cannon in a slight spread to cover the turmoil area to the west and be below the rifles to make ready for more infiltrations. At the same time made sure that signal men and gun spotter were on their way to connect up with Captain Perkins.

When you are tied in with the firing line your tones will give my riflemen the go ahead to lay balls on the Confederate earthworks to add more disturbance!

At this Willis quickly gathered his signalmen and sent them down the hill with a spotter running towards the sound of the shooting. All the while anxious artillery teams were setting up their cannons and wait for directions to be passed up to them. Green’s body somehow could feel the stress from the run back up the slope with the horse handlers moving their stock out of the fray and reconnect up with his rifle signalman.

As a major concern in his mind filled in, Did the Confederates picked up on the sound of their string of rifles and caissons moving in last night? But will this fog still restrict the main body a mile off from seeing them! Though they will soon hear the commotion and for sure sent more soldiers in! Also when they first dealt with the Rebel troops he had sent two scouts down to see how big this group they were dealing with. Knowing then his last look at his pocket watch told they had two more hours before his rifles should speak.

The next forming image was as they topped the hill and out of the fog in the near same step as Lieutenant Master appeared out from its icy grip, yelling out, Me have Rebels below my guns and Captain Elders hands are full and me is sending balls out to aid him. Then up close, Also passed up to me was that the new company had joined up with Captain Elders. They are both being hit by a large group Confederate foot soldiers. My pickets are pushing them back down the hill and against the backs of the two companies. Also from what me was told, both need our howitzers to aid them and my gunners are now laying balls into the Rebels!

During these words from Masters, Green picked up his two scouts running towards them. Hold on I might have more words to add to this Peter. While raising his hand and pointing towards the two running men.

Captain! Captain! Me talked to a Captain Perkins and his troops bumped into a large mass of Confederates. Him said that thems were able to force a way through and connect up with the other company. But thems are taking fire the full length of his line. How large the force we can’t tell. Also they have connected with Willis signalmen and will soon have ball aiding them.

Knowing at this time he and Masters were running down towards Willis who was anxiously waiting for his signalmen to make a connection below. Where he told the two, Masters as soon as you get back to your guns it would be best that you keep sending shrapnel balls into these positions. Willis when I hear your cannons talk our rifles will sound off near the same time to throw off those Gray Coats.

Green now found himself standing back on the top of the hill as the two gun emplacements started to lay rounds on the Confederate commanders pounding on the two companies below him. Also knowing that this decision was stepping over his orders, as the rifles would speak next. So it was to gather up Corporal Gray, his top shadow runner.

Sergeant! Handing him another stripe. Grab a saddle horse. I need you to give Colonel Ridley information on what going down here. There will be more things on his plate this afternoon!

As Gray ran for the tethered horses displaying a broad smile, he wrote a short message to Colonel Ridley telling him what was happening and his change of plans to cover it. Then repeated his words to Gray when he returned, a set method he always used when sending runners out with a message.

Sergeant Gray road north with the sound of the first rifle going off behind him, Green already had his glasses focusing a mile off on a red flare and blue smoke puff. Then one of the right rifle set spoke that came with in a breath the red flash on the second hill. His signalmen were waiting for their part as Green gave the slight adjustments to be passed down.

Now a sergeant, Gray was setting his short spurs while whipping reins ends across the mount’s neck, aiming it towards the Union lines and Colonel Ridley position. While hearing the remainder of the artillery go off behind him. Thinking Well Captain you started our day!

Twenty-five minutes later it took a few well-placed hard words to get past a Major shielding the Colonel, but his time in the saddle as a messenger doing these insertions paid off. Also knowing that was why Green sent him there as he stood close to and watched the Major say a few low words into the Colonel’s ear that broke off the commander’s speech.

As the Colonel turned the Major spoke again while tipping his head towards the runner saying, Colonel we have a message from Captain Green.

He could see Colonel Ridley’s eyes flashing with these angry words, What in the hell did you bring me corporal that is so damn important to disturb my meeting? It has to be good!

At this Gray bent slightly and pulled off his left boot, then from a seam in the inter layer he retrieved the note from his captain. Time traveling through unsecured areas it was not best to carry a leather dispatch case, as it was a big target on your back! Knowing he would have seen a frown when he did this, but was quite sure that other officers saw his concern. Also he would pass on what happened here to Captain Green.

Colonel Ridley quickly skimmed the words and then in his strong New England tone said to the Major who brook in to his meeting, Take this dispatch directly to General Smith and be sure that General Thomas gets a look at it too! Now as fast a you can, both will want to know this! He then looked into the eyes of Corporal Gray, You know what was on the note, right!

Gray felt the pressure as he repeated the message word for word. Then was told to partner with one of the Colonel’s runners to get these words to General Wilson on his west flank. Hearing, I know why Captain Green sent you and maybe you can give my man some help. When you get this done go back to Captain Green he will probably need some more of your help.

As Sergeant Gray departed following the runner, Colonel Ridley passed a thought to himself that confirmed his feelings. What I heard from this Captain when we first met, told me that he was here to win and now how to fight. So this morning it was proven by showing that he knows how to do the right thing even though it might mean a court marshaled and time in the stockade for this action. But he did it to save his men and soldiers around him. I’ll need to have a long talk with him when this action gets settled.

Now smiling while speaking low, "This shooting through the fog to protect his position is a good thought. So we will soon see how good it works.

Chapter 4

With the turmoil outside the tent enhancing the next vision that came with the sound of battle growing below. Captain Green found himself standing under the tall nude Oak trees on top of the second hill, with only his two bugle packing runners and the lead signalman alongside. Knowing that the last word was said as they listen to the sound of both battery of five howitzers blast coming from below the nob holding his six rifles that had just started laying exploding balls on earthworks protecting Rebel cannons.

Green had finished his last task checking the accuracy of the rifles sending out their three-inch ball onto two separate hills a mile off. So now in the distance to the southeast Green watched the red flash and blue powder smoke through field glasses showing up on the top of two separate peaks just jutting out of the white fog that covered the valleys around them. The time burning fuse set off the powder in the ball just feet above and six or so behind the two earthwork walls, to shower hot iron shrapnel down on the implavements. Knowing that General Smith wanted those cannons when he ran over them, so it was to use only shrapnel to remove their gunners.

The rifle’s first exploding round was sent out using only the master gunner’s talents to set the range, Chas knew this man and saw that the first balls were only a few feet from being right on. He then sent down a little tweak using his signalmen to deliver the adjustment to the fuse length and angle so the balls would go off near the middle and behind the walls of the two earthworks. Also from this advantage point above the fog he could see only a small disturbance in the cap as these three-inch balls passed through. So for now Jonny Rebel would not know where they were coming from.

Though during the next thirty minutes the fog slowly receded to where the false pine forest that ringed rifle cannons could be made out and now were only hidden in a thinning haze. Although during this foray through his field glasses it told that the fog had also aided the Confederate soldiers, seeing that the artillerymen showed bandages over wounds, with gray clad dead and wounded lying near the rifles. But by this time the two Rebel breastworks should be totally tumbled, plus his instructions to the master gunnery sergeant was to keep a slow steady pound on the two locations. He did not want it to come alive when Smith sent his troops against their walls in the coming hour and a half.

Sergeant Cook’s thinking again gave him the extra ammunition to continue this hurry up task. Also it was now easy to see gray gunpowder smoke rising from all of his cannon’s discharges that were placed on and below the bare nob. But this reset the concern that the force who sent these troops pressing in at them, would now know their whereabouts and bring in some of their own cannons.

In his hand the pocket watch told him there was at least a half hour for the hammer to drop and start the charge, plus at this location and it would take thirty minutes more before the second faze could protect his cannons and troopers. With this came his concern how much longer could the two companies hold on without aid of Ridley’s troops. Knowing their only edge was his howitzers. Also that Captain Elders and Perkins were fully engaged, along with the gun pickets and horse handlers pushing back more Confederates that were able to squeeze through the thin line.

But still at the lower elevation the dense fog would not let the two officers know the size of the force that were pounding on them. The next factor was the amount of ammunition the two batteries had and would they soon running short of rounds. Cook had only sent in 3-inch ball bags that just fit his rifle cannons. Though when the howitzers came in they had their extra horse setup pulling ammunition limbers connected to caissons.

With the next clap of thunder raddling above his bunk brought up the image of an unknown soldier running up the hill, Saying to him that more trouble was on the way!

Then the near breathless man said, Captain! Captain! Our troops need help! Captain Perkins and his second were just mauled in the last charge. We are holding but I can see that acting commander Second Lieutenant Wiggly needs your help Sir! These words told him that this corporal was a close runner for Captain Perkins and could see what was going around him, also had the courage to step out even with out orders.

With an arm motion Green urged this runner to follow him and his two runner men down the slope to Willis and give him the command of the two batteries of howitzers and the runners, buts to watch his supplies. Then again a short delay when he lead the worried runner close to Masters where he yelled over the cannon roar.

Peter things are coming unraveled. Keep the pickets close to protect your cannons. You are now in command of all the guns and troops, so put your master gun sergeant in charge for now. Willis will look over yours cannons and go to the top of the hill with these two! pointing at his shadows. Have Master Gunnery Sergeant Wallahs run his rifles. I am going to see what going on below. His arm wave told the runner to lead on, while remembering Masters face turn grim.

The scene the two ran into was like he had been mixed into during the last years, constant sound of muskets, with fallen and bloody solders in Gray uniforms mixed in with the Blue. Though any Union soldier strong enough to hold a musket had their focus on the enemy in front of the sights. This runner was right about the officer he was lead to, a Second Lieutenant who was in the middle of a nightmare. His new uniform was now stained by blood, dirt and burnt gunpowder. Green could see that he was trying to pull himself together. Up to this time he was only relaying orders passed to him, though at this point was trying to look past the toe of his shoes.

Green could see relief in the junior officer’s face when he saw a Captain running towards him, ‘He had been saved!’ So Chas used foresight as he spoke, Lieutenant how are your troops holding out? Do we have any count on how many are out in front of us? How many noncoms do you have to work with and are they holding up?

Second Lt. Wiggly hearing firm questions coming from a senior officer, asking him as a commander, sent his mind quickly digging out answering in his New Yorker words. Captain we have over half of our command standing and quite a few walking wounded that still can use their Springfield. I have not had time to count the number of Rebels leaning on us. But my noncoms have rose to the effort. Sir! There was no pause in his Illinois ringing answer, Captain, we are cut down to half!

Seeing that the young officer had a good mind Chas said, Well Lieutenant lets us see what we got! At the same time motioning the runner to follow and still in a crouched manner just ahead of the Lieutenant along the line spread out towards the northwest. Less than two hundred yards Chas found the remainder of the thin line being rallied by a three-stripe Sergeant. This non-com had full sense of what was going on around him and took only a short look at the two officers closing on him.

Green came up behind the Sergeant rallying his men, Sergeant can you hold this corner for a while longer, I don’t want to compress the line just yet.

There was no pause in his Illinois ringing answer, Captain, we are cut down to half! Then pointing out into the gray foggy mist in front of him filed with massive explosions, But as long as them cannons wale on them Rebels me think we can. The Sergeant did not turn his head he was so totally involved.

Good Sargent I’ll be back hopefully with some help! Where he turned waving at the Lieutenant and runner to follow. As they ran back up the line saying, Lieutenant you have a good man holding this end, be sure we don’t forget him!

Remembering that several times the three had to aid the men on the line with their pistols and musket. Where near the east end of companies line he found the two wounded officers hanging onto life. Then up close to the injured Captain Perkins’s ear, I am here to help you Captain and drilling your officer how to see the whole picture. Chas received no words, just a half smile that someone was here to guide his troops.

Nearly a hundred yards on Wiggly told him this is where the other company starts. Then mixed in the tones from musket fire Green gave him his next steps, Ok Wiggly my name is Green and I have to see how the remainder is holding. Now keep moving up and down the firing line and become the eyes of your noncoms. These men are looking straight out and you have to watch their sides. I’ll be back after checking the other troops!

Shortly Green found what lied ahead was as behind; dead, wounded and fighting men in the dense fog turning nearly gray by the musket smoke, while cannons were laying shrapnel balls with in less than a hundred yards in front of their line. Now seeing close up that his two spotters were keeping the exploding balls in the middle of the Rebel force attack, with enough pressure to hold them back. Then about half way up the skirmish line he found Captain Elders with his left hand jammed into a bloody coat pocket.

Where his voice rang out over the constant musket and exploding cannon ball roar, Captain I see you came to join our party! Was Elders southern witty remark, I am down to half and your pickets have filled in the gaps, but I hope you bring some good greetings!

Elders, now looking at his pocket watch and seeing that the time had quickly passed, Thomas should be kicking his general’s ass in the next minutes and the second half of the battle will be in full motion.

But the next forty minutes seemed like hours, as the Gray force had another idea and continued to regroup and press on. Even though the exploding balls were taking large tolls of these men, as they rained down. During this time Green slowly had the Union troops shrink back up the hill to protect the cannons. Knowing that he had seen every aspect of the skirmish line while rallying the two dwindling companies, being propped up by the battery’s pickets and horse handlers. Also as the fog decreased the artillery became more potent when they could see their targets easier. But their blast were becoming less often because the dwindling number of remaining rounds.

During this time Second Lieutenant Wiggly became his own man taking on a full part in this battle helping Green as they squeezed their remaining troops tighter, while repelling the gray coats over and over again with their pistols or barrowed muskets and its bayonet from fallen infantrymen. As this task became more pressing Green, Wiggly and one of Elders lieutenants lead their own squad of five or six infantrymen moving along the sagging line filling holes or push back the Confederate. While the artillerymen were now laying grape shot rounds within thirty yards below their feet creating large gaps in the Gray surge that seemed to refill instantly.

Then as the remaining minutes shrunk the rumble of explosions balls started to increase, re-instigating the wider artillery wall. Along with this the sound of more muskets spilled down the sides of the hill that seemed to have stalled the gray line. This gave evidence that Master Sargent Cook had arrived and there had to be more troops adding to his force. Also the fog had nearly backed out leaving only small pockets and a crisp frosty landscape behind.

Chapter 5

The thankful sign of the incoming tide of Gray began to slow as the rain of exploding cannon balls started to increase, again churning up the landscape now some thirty or so yards in front of their battered line. Also added to this was the growing sound of musket fire filtering in behind Chas Green, proclaiming that fresh companies of Union troops were now flowing down the hill and becoming fully engaged. Soon around him was blue clad solders filling into the worn thin skirmish line as a first Lieutenant joined and yelled over the musket reports.

Captain Green I am to tell you that the Colonel will be here soon. Also he has placed three companies around your troops and will start his advance from this location!

During these last intense minutes Chas could see that the growing force firming the line that came with the heaver rain of cannon balls, had struck a strong note on the Rebel officers. Now the Confederate line seemed to be melting into a full retreat with the gray troops disappearing into the remaining fog. With this firm action he sent word to his two ragged companies to carry the wounded up and behind the cannons. It was then he was able to walk up to the gun command and look around at the last hours of devastation.

Also at this moment he was to reading himself for a strong chewing out when he saw the Colonel ride up and dropped to the ground.

But instead came these welcome words, Captain Green! A fine job! On the hilltop I was able to see General Smith’s troops storming over the two redoubts in the east and we have a roust! It looks like we did not screw up the General’s plan that much. Except for this little fractious the Confederates were still focused on General Steedman laying his hand on their east flank.

The fretting in Colonel Ridley’s mind that also churned up his stomach during the last hours of readiness, as he pressed on all his officers, where half were unknown to him and this even went into his close working staff, that they all understood their special task in today’s battle plan. Now it was to late for any more words, as it was the time to insert his Regiment that had nearly expanded into a Battalion for a special intrusion force for General Smith!

Plus thanking God it was not raining and the thinning fog had helped block their movement from the enemy, while crossing under the denuded Oak forest canopy that continued up the hills. All this time there were only sounds from cannons and muskets miles to the east, though as they ascended the last hill came the growing reports of cannons and muskets met them.

Even during these reclining hours of the day, General Thomas did not want to pre-warn the Confederate troops of this major effort, so the two battery of ten howitzers were being pulled along with the advancing near silent infantry wall and would squeezed up behind his companies when joining Smith’s troops. They would set up there and use the howitzers eight hundred yard reach to lay their hard hand on the Confederate troops when the charge was sounded.

Though Ridley’s cannon crews task today would be in a full hurry up mode, using their cannon balls only to open the way for a full out advancement, because his force would be the spearhead for General Smith mode of attack. His troops would be the power and the leading prong to make a hole through the rebel line and let the Smith’s troops flow through. This would keep these cannons in a continuous forward mode and their known task was to protect the troops if they had to fall back. They would become the strong shields for these men!

Even though the rain had stopped hours ago, the dense fog still held the treed landscape for hours through the day. Its passing was slow with no wind leaving a light moist haze under the tree canopy, so by the end of nearly two miles march it had soaked through the shoes and lower pants legs of the troops. But the few mounted were not relieved from this dampness as falling droplets from the Oak limbs soaked into their shoulders.

As all commanders, Ridley was up front in the straddle on his horse ‘Go Boy’, be side him Second Lt. Colonel Barkley and just ahead of the other riding working staff, with three companies of infantry just steps behind them leading the two cannon battery. His remaining seven was flowing around the east side of this small set of hills to meet up at its southern base. Here they would fall into planned ranks, as a lance point, with the two leading companies set in twenty men wide and four deep each and the eight remaining companies formed in a forty man width pressed tight to help keep the gate open for Smith’s Army to flow through.

The path he was following that lead up through a Oak