noon
Now , when the fight opened , the most of Branch 's brigade -- having moved somewhat forward -- had placed itself between me and our troops . I soon became aware of this fact by seeing straggling Confederate soldiers in the woods in several directions ; some of them seemed to be wounded . Half a mile or so to the eastward the battle was loud . By this time it was a little after noon ; the sun was hot . The sounds of battle were advancing toward the north . Straggling men went by me , giving me no attention whatever . I kept my position -- not remaining still , however , but walking about in the woods in order to prevent the possibility of being suspected of trying to hide -- and awaited the issue .