Such was the first blow struck. It had failed, and General Grant turned
his attention to A.P. Hill, who had hastened up, and formed line of
battle across the Orange plank road, on Ewell's right.
Hancock directed the assault here, and we have General Lee's testimony
to the fact, that the Federal attempts to drive back Hill were
"repeated and desperate." All failed. Hill stubbornly held his ground.
At night the enemy retired, and gave up all further attempts on that
day to make any headway.
Grant had expected to find a mere rear-guard, while Lee's main body was
retreating upon Richmond.
He found two full corps in his front; and there was no doubt that a
third--that of Longstreet--was approaching.
Lee was evidently going to fight--his aim was, plainly, to shut up
Grant in the Wilderness, and drive him back beyond the Rapidan, or
destroy him.
XXXI.
THE REPORT.
It was twilight and the fighting was over.
The two tigers had drawn back, and, crouching down, panted
heavily,--resting and gathering new strength for the fiercer conflict
of the next day.
From the thickets rose the stifled hum of the two hosts. Only a few
shots were heard, now and then, from the skirmishers, and these
resembled the last drops of a storm which had spent its fury.
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