150-years-ago -- Chancellorsville aftermath

Gen. J.E.B. Stuart did an outstanding job
at Chancellorsville after the mortal
wounding of Stonewall Jackson.
(Library of Congress)

The Richmond Daily Dispatch
May 8,  1863

The Situation on the Rappahannock

            The information received from the Rappahannock to the present time is not detailed, and with respect to the present condition of the opposing forces not very definite. It is understood that the enemy being driven from Chancellorsville, fell back in the direction of the United States ford, where he collected his forces and commenced fortifying. Our own army has command of the fords above and below him. Thus matters stand; but it may be inferred will not remain thus long.
            Soldiers engaged in the fight at Fredericksburg with Sedgwick's corps, report that after he crossed on Monday night several very bright fires were seen on the Falmouth shore. They were of such magnitude as to justify the supposition that immense buildings or stores were consumed. Our men were at a loss to conjecture what was the cause; but some inferred that the enemy was alarmed, under the apprehension of an advance of our forces, and were burning stores. The same evening immense lines of wagons were seen winding along, up the river. These were no doubt conveying provisions for Hooker's army in its new camps.
           The enemy cannot feel very comfortable in his present position, to which he has been driven. Like some hunted beast he can but feel that he enjoys a temporary respite from his pursuers. Oh! for a gunboat! he no doubt ejaculates. A gunboat to a Yankee in such a strait is the blessedest thing on earth! To McClellan, at Wilcox's wharf, the mailed vessels were like guardian angels. They gave rest and sound sleep to the wounded and wearied Yankees, such as they had not known for many nights.
Though our victory is important, and the results of great magnitude, it might possibly receive some additions. Everybody, however, feels entire confidence in our army and its able commander, and are convinced that whatever can be done will be done, and that in good time.