George Orook to BAscom, May 23, 1862

CAPTAIN:

I have the honor to inform you that I was attacked this morning about 5 a. m. by General Heth with 3,000 men, some six or eight pieces of artillery, and a small force of cavalry. They came from the direction of Union, crossed the Greenbrier River at the bridge, driving in our pickets. They formed a line of battle on the hill east of town, our camp being on the hill west of town, and shelled the town and our camp. I atonce formed my line cf battle and marched on them. My men encountered them on the outskirts of the east side of town. We drove them back, they disputing every inch of ground until we gained the top of the hill, when they fled in great confusion, utterly demoralized, throwing away their blankets, hats, coats, accouterments, and some guns. Having only 1,200 or 1,300 men, I was afraid to follow them for fear they had another column to attack us in our rear which was entirely unprotected, or else I might have followed them an prevented their burning the bridge. We lost some 10 killed, 40 wounded, and 8 missing. The enemy’s loss is much greater; have no correct list yet. We captured four cannon, two rifled and two smooth, and some colonel, one major, and several captains and lieutenants.

I regret to have to report that our wounded men passing to the rear were fired on from the houses and some killed. I have instituted a search, and shall burn all the houses from which was firing from and shall order a commission on those who are charged with firing, and if found guilty will execute them at once in the main street of this town as examples. I will send detailed report by mail.

very respectfully,