Saturday, May 9, 1863. Emancipation in a fog of war.

"Saturday 9th. Clear & fine this A.M. Pretty warm in the middle of the day. Detailed to dig rifle pits to-day, but, as usual, did not injure my constitution, tho' we accomplished a fair job. 

"The way the negroes come in, is surprising. They average 6 to 8 to 10 per day, all seeking that haven of rest (to them) Alexandria. Trains run almost every day, & often 2 trains." ~ Diary of Horace Barlow (UVM), 116, Horace Barlow, Pvt., Co. C, 12th Regiment 

"May 9. The operations of the past few days have been cheering in the extreme. Hooker is the man of the day, but I fear he will not be able to hold his position. Great achievements are expected from Stoneman." ~ John  C. Williams, Corporal, Co. B, 14th Regiment, Life in Camp 118 (1864)