Alfred Roman, The military operations of General Beauregard in the war between the states, 1861 to 1865

Telegram.

Smithfield, March 20th, 1865.
To Genl. Beauregard:

The 15th and 17th corps were yesterday moving on the road from Fayetteville to Goldsboroa; the 14th and 20th on that from Averysboroa. We attacked the latter force at 3 P. M., routed one corps, capturing three guns; but a mile in rear the enemy rallied on fresh troops. We were able to press all back slowly until six, when, apparently receiving fresh troops, he attempted the offensive, which we resisted without difficulty until dark. Our troops behaved handsomely. This morning enemy was intrenched. We have now the whole army in our front. The 15th Corps, moving from direction of Goldsboroa on our left flank and rear, made it necessary to change our front so as to look to the south. There has so far been only skirmishing to-day. Please give this information to the Governor in my name.

J. E. Johnston.

Telegram.

near Bentonville, March 21st, 1865:7.10 A. M.
Genl. G. T. Beauregard:

We are remaining here to cover the removal of our wounded to railroad at Smithfield. The enemy's intrenched position and greatly superior number-Sherman's army being in our front—makes further offensive impracticable.

J. E. Johnston.

Telegram.

near Smithfield, March 23d, 1865.
To Genl. G. T. Beauregard:

Sherman's whole army being intrenched in our front on morning of 20th, we did not attack, but held our position to cover removal of wounded and occupy enemy. There was heavy skirmishing 20th and 21st, and several partial attacks by him handsomely repulsed. Troops of Tennessee Army have fully disproved slander that has been published against them. Evening and night of 21st enemy moved towards Goldsboroa, and yesterday we came here.

J. E. Johnston.

Telegram.

Smithfield, March 24th, 1865.
Genl. G. T. Beauregard:

Sherman and Schofield have united at Goldsboroa. Seven corps. I am placing our troops north of the depot and near it. Our cavalry is moving forward. Do urge Lee forward. His troops ought to march in several bodies, those leading never to wait for those following. General Lee seems to be committing the error of making the front wait for the rear. On reaching railroad, marching should be continued by those not taken up at Chester until they meet trains.

J. E. Johnston.

Telegram.

Raleigh, N. C., March 24th, 1865:1.35 P. M.
Genl. S. D. Lee, at Chester, S. C. (or to be forwarded):

General Johnston desires you to urge forward your troops as rapidly as possible.