The regiment remains in line of battle along the south side of the Neuse, having engaged the enemy at Goldsboro Bridge (17 December 1862). Barrier writes to let his father know that everyone is generally well, though he does wish that they would move back to their tents: "We have been lying here in the woods about long enough." He reports that five more men have enlisted in his company. "I think the sky begins to brighten toward peace," he says, "And I have a hope soon to return home and enjoy the fruits of our toils in a land free from the bondage of a tyrant." The enemy accomplished little on their raid up the Neuse, writes Barrier: "We slaughtered a great many of the vandals but at the same time we lost some good men." He promises to write to his sister, mother, and others when he gets back to camp.