Mobile Register

June 18, 1861

Page 3

 

����������� CAPT. WERTH�S INTREDIP ENCOUNTER WITH THE ENEMY�From a reliable source we derive the following account of the interesting interview between Capt. Wm. H. Werth, of the Chatham Grays, of Pittsylvania county, and a scouting party of the Hessions in the neighborhood of Hampton on Friday last.� It differs somewhat from our yesterday�s statement.� Capt. Werth and another officer being together and unaccompanied, on a reconnoitering expedition some distance in advance of the main body, separated at the forks of the road, each going on his own hook.� After Capt. W. had proceeded a short distance, he found himself suddenly in the presence of five of the enemy.� Having no idea of surrendering, he instantly drew his revolver, and without parley each party commenced firing�Capt. Werth killing two of the party, the remainder retreated.� The mule ridden by one of the party, however was killed by Capt. W.�s last shot, the rider having slipped off at the instant and taken to the bushes.� Capt. W. seems much chagrined that the bed ground on which the encounter occurred prevented his bagging all five.� When this affair is reported for the Northern press, it will, of course, be stated that their scouts were attacked by a whole troop of dragoons.� Capt. W. was, in truth, alone, until joined, immediately after the firing, by his companion, from whom he had parted only a few minutes before.� The two men killed are said to be officers.� Their arms were taken by Capt. W. as fairly-won spoils.

[Richmond Dispatch]

 

[Transcribed by: Sharon Strout]