[This was the 1st regiment United States Colored Heavy Artillery. The letter was written the same day that Lee surrendured. Thomas Major was a private in this unit. N. Elvick]

Greenville, Tennessee, Battery G, 1st O.V.S.A., April 11th, 1865

Editor Journal:—Dear Sir:
     As we have been moving since my first to you, I take this my first opportunity to comply with my own proposition, made, while at Holichuch Valley. Our Battery with one Brigade of Infantry, Col. Kirby commanding, made a march of 100 miles into North Carolina. We met the enemy on the 5th inst., at Warm Springs, North Carolina, about 6 miles from Point Rock. It was ascertained, by throwing out a heavy skirmish line, that not many rebs were in our front, but as they had the opposite side of French Broad River, which at this point, is not to be forded, it was decided by our Col., Commanding, to move on (to) Ashville, distant 42 miles. According(ly) the move was commenced on the night of the 5th inst., by four Regiments, while our Battery covered the opposite side.
     The command having made the march with but little hindrance (save cutting some few trees out of the way), made the attack. The enemy being surprised, on finding our forces so nigh. They immediately, brought out a Battery, amd commenced shelling the skirmish line, Col. Kirby, having just received a dispatch, telling him not to lose a man, he withdrew with three men, wounded and two taken prisoners. Col. Kirby taking in return one wagon, loaded with shoes, 10 prisoners, some few mules, &c. The raiders, having orders to countermarch, we reached here yesterday at 4 P.M. where we found the 4th A.C. and the Art Brigade, without pay as we left them.
     Since we have returned, I learn from a good source that all we went on the trip for was to burn three bridges, which was done. While on our march, we were kept posted, in reference to the success of our arms, on the Potomac. Since our return, we have the announcement of Lee's surrender. The news made the soldiers crazy, they hollowed [sic] loud and long. We long for peace, and I am certain it will soon be had, as soldiers we long to see our friends.
     Not knowing how well you like to print my poorly constructed sentences, I will refrain. We have no news only by special to Gen'l. Stanley. I am as ever
     Yours Truly,
     Thomas Major, 1st. O.V.V.G.A.

The Gallipolis Journal
May 4, 1865