7th.—Sad news from the Valley. The brave, gallant, dashing General Ashby has fallen! He was killed yesterday, in a vigorous attack made by the enemy on our rear-guard, at a point between Harrisonburg and Port Republic. The whole country will be shocked by the calamity, for it had a high appreciation of his noble character and achievements. General Jackson valued him very highly, as did both men and officers. His daring was wonderful, and wonderfully did he succeed in his dashing and heroic efforts. “His sagacity in penetrating into the designs of the enemy seemed almost intuitive.”* It is so hard, in our weakness, to give up such men!
* From General Jackson’s telegram announcing the death of General Ashby.