The guard having been separated from the column, and the rear of the
train having been attacked by an increased force near the bridge
between Newtown and Kearnstown, Colonel Gordon was directed to send
back the second Massachusetts, Lieutenant Colonel Brown to rescue
the rear of the train and hold the enemy in check. They found him at
Newtown, with a strong force of infantry, cavalry and artillery.
The second Massachusetts was employed in the field, supported by the
twenty-eighth New York and twenty-seventh Indiana, and ordered to
drive the enemy from the town, and the battery was at the same time so
placed as to silence the guns of the enemy.
Both these objects were quickly accomplished. They found it impossible
to reach Middletown, so as to enable the cavalry under General Hatch
to join the column, or to cover entirely the rear of the train. Large
bodies of the enemy’s cavalry passed upon our right and left, and the
increased vigor of his movements demonstrated the rapid advance of
the main body. A cavalry charge made upon our troops was received in
squares on the right and on the road, and in the line of the left,
which repelled his assault, and gained time to reform the train, to
cover its rear, and to burn the disabled wagons. This affair occupied
several hours—the regiments having been moved to the rear about six
o’clock, and not reaching the town until after twelve.
A full report by Colonel Gordon, who commanded in person, is enclosed
herewith. The principal loss of the second Massachusetts occurred in
this action.