December, 1863 ~ February, 1864

On the morning of December 1st, the batteries along our whole line opened fire, and we momentarily expected to move against the enemy's works. The firing suddenly ceased, and it was rumored that the attack was to be abandoned. This rumor was confirmed by orders for the corps to move back to Germania ford, to cover the crossing of the Fifth and Sixth corps, who commenced to retire early in the afternoon. Our corps reached the Rapidan at about 11.30 ; marched ten miles.

On the 2d, crossed the river at daylight, formed line and covered the crossing of the balance of the army. Continued on the march, and bivouacked near Stevensburg ; ten miles.

On the 3d left bivouac, and camped near Paoli Mills, distant five miles.

On the 4th changed camp, moved to within a short distance of Kelly's ford, on the Rappahannock, where the troops busied themselves in fitting up quarters, anticipating a long stay.

On the 18th the regiment was ordered out to witness the execution of a member of the Seventy-sixth New York volunteers, who had deserted a number of times. This, perhaps, is the saddest scene in a soldiers life, to be called upon to witness a strong man, under a bright sun, pay the penalty of his crime. In the heat of battle one sees a comrade struck down, hardly noticing the event, unless it be a very dear friend or brother ; but, as in this instance, one has time to reflect, and thoughts go back to the time when the poor mortal who stands before us, his face blanched with the awful certainty of a disgraceful death, induced by the most exalted motive, love of country, left home and friends, a gay dream, ambition's dream, to be realized amid the struggle of contending armies, to return home laden with honors, and with the consciousness of having performed the first of earthly duties. A volley from the muskets of his comrades shatters the dream, and the curtain drops over the scene.

On the 24th left Kelly's ford, marched ten miles, and bivouacked near Redwood.

On the 28th Col. Fowler was assigned as Provost Marshal at Culpepper, the regiment as provost guard. The different companies occupied the hotels through the town. From this time until February 5th, no event of importance occurred.

On the evening of February 5th, 1864, the "Fourteenth Regiment Opera Troupe," a band of minstrels, composed of members of the regiment, who had for some time been actively engaged in procuring the necessary paraphernalia, receiving the countenance of the officers at corps head-quarters, and every facility for a complete success, gave their first concert. The event justified our best hopes, and while the regiment remained at Culpepper a series of concerts was given, which were attended by almost every general officer in the army, besides receiving the liberal patronage of the surrounding camps.

On the 25th Maj.-Gen. Newton took leave of the corps, Maj.-Gen. Warren assuming command of the Fifth Corps, to which we on the consolidation of corps, divisions and brigades, now belonged.

On the 27th, Gen. Wadsworth assumed command of the Fourth division, Gen. J.C. Rice retaining command of brigade.

On the 29th reviewed by Gen. Grant. From this time until May 4th, no important event occurred as far as the regiment was concerned. Preparations were being made for an early campaign. Reconnoissances were frequent towards the Rapidan, and it was apparent to the newest recruit that in a few days the sloth of winter quarters would be exchanged.