On the fifth of May I encountered a heavily wooded area with thick underbrush and many vines east of a large river.  I urged the horses on but the traveling with Rambler in tow behind Solomon was hard and I was forced to stop and rest.  My thoughts were devoted to my return home and I anxiously anticipated resuming my journey as soon as Solomon and Rambler were revived.  As I rested, I heard a commotion to my front.  Gunfire soon erupted and I, not knowing my position in this skirmish, took cover.  Soon my curiosity prompted me forward.  Leaving my horse I moved slowly to investigate.  I found Confederate wounded being carried to the rear as a battle grew larger ahead.  I inquired of a stretcher bearer the situation and he informed me of our impending defeat which could only be reversed by divine intervention.  I being on my way home had no desire to risk my life in this battle in which I had no orders to participate.  In a moment, however, my duty to the Confederacy pressed me into action.  I took a musket and ammunition from a wounded man and found myself running to assist in any manner I was needed.  I encountered much to my surprise Maj. Kohl.  He asked how many men were with me but before I could tell him I was alone as he was called away.   We had no time to exchange stories and I was immediately found a place with the 7th Florida Co. E, commanded by Capt. Steve Hunt.  We marched onto the field from the west side and met the Federals in the woods.  The field reminded me of the Wilderness battle.  The Union came through the thickets confidently and we welcomed them with a heavy firing. We all loaded and shot quickly as we pressed forward.  It didn't take long for the Union to counter attack and attempt to come around our left flank.  Another Confederate company (I couldn't see which one) came forward and held them for a moment.  Between the artillery and musket blasts, the smoke had become thick but the red on the Zouave troops made easy targets and they fell in large numbers.  The Union gained the advantage and we were pressed to retreat.  Our new line held and after regrouping, we pushed forward again.  The battle went well for us for the moment but we were soon pushed back.  At this point, we knew we could not hold our line against the Union onslaught.  Our lines wavered back once more and then the great effort by the Union army prevailed.  We retreated once again; fortunately, the Union did not follow.  We were defeated but held our new position.  After all had become quiet, I returned the musket and bid farewell to my new friends.  I did not see Maj. Kohl but heard he was fine and busy employing men to defend the area should another attack take place.  I wondered if Solomon and Rambler would still be tied to the tree where I had left them.  Much to my amazement, they were calmly standing waiting for me.  I, without hesitation, leapt to Solomon's back and quickly left the area.  I hope all goes well for our army tomorrow but for this moment my only concern is to be safe at home.