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]