Washington, N.C., April 28, ’64
[Dear] Mother
[on a printed sheet describing the Battle of Plymouth]
I have just time to forward you a few words. Great
Excitement has prevailed here and throughout the department
Since Sunday night the 17 th instant, when the town of Plymouth
--twenty-eight miles form here---was attacked by the rebels,
who sent an iron clad down the Roanoke river, and its opera-
tions being supported by a strong land force, the garrison was
taken after a determined struggle, which lasted till the morning
of the twentieth The operations of the iron clad vessel proved
successful in every respect,---our fleet was completely con-
quered, and the twon was taken after the fifth desperate assault
by the enemy. In losing the town we also lost wo veseels of
the navy, and as brave an officer as ever trod the deck of an
American vessel of war. The name of the naval officer killed
was Captain Flusser of the Southfield The enemy lost at
least six per cent. more than the Federals. The Generals in
command of the Department are proving themselves capable of
being able to cope with the enemy.
This town is to be evacuated in a few hours. The troops
are getting upon the boats as fast as possible. The heavy guns
are covering our retreat, as the enemy are within sight of our
entrenchments. The porr negroes are flying for protection in
every direction, and to-morrow will see this town in the hands
of the enemy. No more time to spare as the evacuation takes
place n a few hours. All is excitement while I write.
Very affectionately,
[handwritten] Jesse Harrison
I expect to leave here in a few hours my Regiment left here
yesterday bound for I know not whire. I feel assured Dear
father that the Lord will provide for you all as the Feder
als are going to leave this plaice of course my asistence you
will be [??fer?ved] of for a whil.
I hope that you will soon have a chance chance to come
to me if we all live God blass you all Jesse Harrison