But the seasoned veterans of the Army of the Tennessee encountered the shock with an obstinacy which showed that the finest material for soldiery this planet holds was that in which undaunted hearts beat beneath blue blouses.

Springing over the front of their breastworks, they drove back with a withering fire the force assailing them in the rear.

This beaten off, they jumped back to their proper places, and repulsed the assault in front.

This was the way the battle was waged until night compelled a cessation of operations.

Our boys were alternately behind the breastworks firing at Rebels advancing upon the front, and in front of the works firing upon those coming up in the rear.