Indeed, according to our military politicians, we were to get no end
of glory through General McDowell's success. And Mr. Beauregard was
to be driven back to his master, bag and baggage.
CHAPTER IV.
THE BATTLE OF BULL-RUN, AND HOW IT ENDED.
I CONSIDER it of the greatest importance, my son, to present you
with an exact portrait of the very distinguished general who led our
gallant militiamen to battle at Bull-Run, and followed them home
without gaining a victory. Greater battles than this of Bull-Run
have been fought, as well in modern as in ancient times; but it is
my honest opinion that it has never had its equal in the small
number killed and wounded, as compared to the very large number that
got frightened and ran away. But I shall speak of this more
particularly hereafter.
When the bold McDowell had got the courage of our gallant militiamen
well up, and was sure they would look the enemy right in the eye,
and give him powder and shot to his heart's content, he led them
forth with such pomp and pageantry as had never been seen before.
Yes, my son, our gallant militiamen marched forth on the morning of
the 21st of July, 1861, every man a hero, and every man intent on
fighting the battle according to his own peculiar notions of how a
great and glorious victory ought to be gained.
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