A short time before first Bull Run fight, the 4th Michigan, with other
regiments, were in camp at Cloud's Mills, Virginia, about 5 miles out
from Alexandria, towards Fairfax Court House. Our pickets were well
extended out, in above named direction. One day the writer, with about
20 of the Regiment were out towards Fairfax. We seen a small column of
cavalry approaching with a flag of truce hoisted. As they drew near,
it proved to be an escort of the famous Black Horse Cavalry. We were
ranged all along the road as they passed. They were conducting a man
and woman to our lines. On their return, we encountered them again. I
noticed the contrast between those Rebel troopers, their sullen and
vindictive appearance, and compared them to the cheerful and wideawake
countenance of our men. They passed on towards Fairfax. We felt we
could have cleaned them out in fifteen minutes. There was nothing
about the Black Horse Cavalry, that was very terrifying. I saw better
men and horses every day, of our brave troopers.