Camp Antipathy 12 June 1862

Near Whitehall Bridge NC

Dear General,

I have the honor to report on our recent campaign into the interior.

We arrived this place on the evening of the 8^Th. Instant. The guns moving by the lower road in order to keep a distance between us and the enemy until we could consolidate our forces. I had a very close call with enemy pickets near the village of Mount Olive. We were hailed by the pickets and were certain to be discovered, but by some fate, they were temporarily distracted by a nearby commotion and we were allowed to pass without incident. The lack of a proper brand on my old white horse would have surely given us away.

We found this place to be crawling with enemy. We were under constant attack from raiding marauders after dark. One sneak attack wounded Pvt. Alexandria, and Corporals A. and T. Dick were forced to leave their possessions to them. Fortunately we were able to recapture most of the possessions in the morning after a hard fight.

About 2 PM on the 9 Th. instant, we moved up to the river crossing and placed the guns on the southern bank in an effort to drive the enemy from the other side and effect a crossing. They were firmly entrenched, but we seemed to be making a good effect. After a heavy cannonading our troops attempted to gain the bridge and hopefully a lodgment on the other side. However they were met and repulsed on the bridge and the enemy made a counter attack. We switched to canister to drive them back. This was very effective, but just then every gun was disabled in rapid succession. This gave the enemy just enough time to gain our flank. They captured two guns and the rest were forced to retire. Fortunately my battery was able to retire in good order.

We were able to withdraw under cover of darkness. We left the area still heavily infested with the enemy. We are moving to the West in hope of flanking them out of their position. I think this not likely as they are very numerous and everywhere well entrenched. The most formidable works that I have encountered.

Your Obedient Servant

Capt. Wombold

1 St. NY Battery D