Union News, Broome Co., NY, October 10, 1861
Camp Dickinson, Near Fort Lyon, Alexandria, Va., Oct. 1st, '61
Friend B.: There is more than usual activity today among the troops in this section. Day before yesterday, a portion of this division made an advance and the rebels retired as they approached, and now the lads are in possession of Fairfax again, and the troops are moving on by thousands. The (supposed to be) strong fortifications of the rebels at Munson's Hill, turned out to be slight earth works thrown up with some logs, and stove pipe mounted to resemble sixty-four's and rifle cannon. They painted them up in style, and on the whole they were very good likenesses. But 'tis a pretty good sell, I fancy, on some of our knowing ones. Well, everything is clear to Fairfax, and the "secesh" think (I suppose by falling back into their strong hold) to draw us into their trap again, and have the Bull Run tragedy played over a second time.
Well, I'm satisfied with the arrangement, as I'd like to assist to whip them on the same ground, as we all know is better now. Troops are arriving daily, and everything points to some important move soon, but of course, I can't tell when. There has been (in the neighborhood of) twenty Regiments passing today. We are getting along as well as could be expected with the Fort, which has been called Fort Lyon after the heroic general, who has sacrificed both life and fortune in the defense of the Union.
One of our recruits had the misfortune to shoot a rebel scout, near Dr. Mason's last night. He informed us that the rebel scout snapped his gun at him and it missed fired, giving him time to try his piece, which succeeded in bringing down Mr. "Secesh," although it was not a mortal wound he received.
I hear today that Stewart's Engineer Regiment from Elmira, that contains the Maine boys, is in Camp at Meridian Hill, about three miles north of Washington. My informant said they were all in good spirits. We can't get any of any kind here at present, however, the general health of the Regiment is good. Hib has been to Alexandria today, having a dozen or two photographs taken, so I suppose you will have one to hang up in our sanctum soon. No more, as 'tis time for roll call.
Yours as ever, Blockhead.
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