March 23rd.–At one o’clock this morning, met Major M. in Washington, who informed me that the absent officers of our Brigade had been telegraphed to rejoin their regiments immediately, to embark at 8 this A. M. Left on first boat for Alexandria, and found the most of my Brigade embarked. I had just time, before going on board, to write and copy the following note:
Alexandria, March 23, 1863.
My Dear: ‘Tis Sunday, and here I am surrounded by all “the pomp and circumstance of war;” troops embarking, flags flying, martial music from a dozen bands all around me. My own Regiment is this moment marching on board the steamer Canonicus; and amidst the confusion and turmoil of troops marching, almost over me, transportation wagons wheeling within a few inches of my feet, and amidst every conceivable noise, I sit down in the street, with an old box in front of me, to write these few words, thinking that they may interest even you. * * * In a few hours the distance between us will begin rapidly to increase. How long will the increase continue? God only knows. I hope soon to be turned homeward.
This is such a time as Alexandria never saw–it is to be hoped may never see again. There seems to be but little interest or excitement in the city. Scarcely anybody out to witness this solemn–this imposing pageant. I know not .what else to call it. Are the people here rebels at heart? I fear as much so as South Carolinians. We are not informed of our destination, but I still believe it to be Norfolk, and if successful there, then to Richmond. We are now Called on board. Farewell.