Raynors HCA 2017-02
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/23/2017
Confederate Stonewall Brigade letter, 2pp. folio., written by Pvt. John W. Middleton (1835-1907), Co. H, 27th Virginia Infantry, (WIA & POW Pickett's Charge, Gettysburg 7/3/63), "Camp Elk Run," Apr. 29, 1862, in part: "…it has rained everyday for 6 days …we have had to take it as it came no tents…we have sent off all our baggage except one blanket and a change of under clothes…[Stonewall] will give the enemy a fight. They are distributing ammunition, shoes, canteens, haversacks & Ewell's division is coming over. They are about 6 miles from here…there are about ten thousand of them and there is about ten thousand here…so Jackson will have some 20,000 men. It is reported that the Yankees have about 25,000…if they do fight it will be a hard one. I dread the next fight for a great deal…are sure to be killed, but if it has to be done why not now? Let the worse come and end this suspense. I would rather know my fate…then remain in this painful suspense…I would rather have peace as we once had than the best farm in Virginia. It is reported…that the Yankees have whipped us at N. Orleans and now have possession of the city. It does seem that we are doomed to defeat on all occasions. The Southern cause looks gloomy and I am afraid that we will be overpowered. If we are the South will se a great difference between being governed by the North and being in the Union. The men who have charge of affairs are determined to fight while they can get a man to fight…it is reported that the Yankees have all their forces at Harrisonburg and are on the road out here. If they come here to attack us in the mountains they will certainly get whipped…this is the strongest position I ever saw...J. W. Middleton…". The original transmittal cover "Politeness of Jno. Rawlins," is included. Both overall VG
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