Brisbin, James S. (James Sanks), 1837-1892 to Jane Brisbin

Discusses the Battle of Sabine Crossroads with Jane, his wife. Writes, "We have had a great battle. Three days fighting. The 1st day we whipped them. The 2nd day they whipped us and the third day we whipped them. The fighting was dreadful and we have lost terribly. In the 2nd days fight, my horse had his head blown off by a shell and fell on me holding me fast. I came near being captured but got my leg out from under him and mounted on a rebel horse whose rider had been shot, I escaped from the field. I have the horse, saddle and bridle." States his company lost supplies and personal money in the battle. Declares "I did well in the battle. I never fought better in my life- and I think my reputation as a brave man is now established beyond a doubt." Reveals that Union forces are being pushed back, and expresses hope that they will retreat to New Orleans. Relates that many Union leaders were wounded, and that after three days of battle they lost twenty cannons and more than 100 wagons. States that General Ransom (possibly Thomas Edward Greenfield Ransom) sustained a shot in the knee. Reports that General Lee (possibly Albert Lindley Lee) was hit but not injured, and that Colonels Lysander Webb, Lewis Benedict, and [Lindsy] were killed during the battle. Recounts that 17 regimental commanders were killed, that Captain Chapman's legs were shot off, and that General William Buel Franklin "had two horses shot under him."