Pressing on towards the York River railroad, A. P. Hill, who was in advance, reached the vicinity of New Cold Harbor about 2 P. M., where he encountered the enemy.
He immediately formed his line nearly parallel to the road leading from
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that place towards the McGehee's house, and soon became hotly engaged. * * * * The principal part of the Federal army was now on the north side of the Chickahominy.
Hill's single division met this large force with the impetuous courage for which that officer and his troops are distinguished.
They drove the enemy back and assailed him in his strong position on the ridge.
The battle raged fiercely and with varying fortune more than two hours. Three regiments pierced the enemy's line and forced their way to the crest of the hill to his left, but were compelled to fall back before overwhelming numbers.
The superior force of the enemy, assisted by the fire of his batteries south of the Chickahominy, which played incessantly on our columns as they pressed through the difficulties that obstructed their way, caused them to recoil.
Though most of the men never had been under fire until the day before, they were rallied and in turn repelled the advance of the enemy.
Some brigades were broken, others stubbornly maintained their positions, but it became apparent that the enemy were gradually gaining ground. * * * * The arrival of fresh troops enabled A. P. Hill to withdraw some of his brigades, wearied and reduced by their long and arduous conflict. * * *
