Raynors HCA 2017-02
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/23/2017
Confederate Stonewall Brigade letter, 3pp. 8vo., written by Pvt. John W. Middleton (1835-1907), Co. H, 27th Virginia Infantry, (WIA & POW Pickett's Charge, Gettysburg 7/3/63), Staunton, [Va.], May 6, 1862, in part: "…in the last…I told you I never expected to see this beautiful valley again, but was agreeably disappointed this morning…if I was not so tired and sore I would be happy…I looked for uncle until dark…I do not expect to see him as we are ordered to cook two day's rations and be ready to march in the morning. I have no idea where we are going or what we are going to do but suppose we will move toward the Allegheny Mountains as Loring's men have all gone that way. The enemy have advanced their pickets as far as Mount Crawford, but their main body is down below Harrisonburg. General Ewell's Division is at Elk Run where we left them…the Yankees are afraid to come above him for fear of being cut off…we are going to try to capture the army in Western Va., but…they will be two sharp to be caught napping. I your last letter you say I must not be discouraged…but since the fall of Fort Donelson disaster and defeats have followed each other in rapid succession the last of which is the defeat at Norfolk. Our men have fallen back towards Richmond. The enemy's gun boats ran past our batteries scarcely making a halt. Our men had to leave all their heavy guns in the enemy's hands…we will be the worst whipped set of people [that] ever was. I would be glad if our leaders would do what they are going to do then let all who survive go home and help raise something for those at home to eat. If something is not soon done poor people at home must suffer…those times had continued but some though they could increase their business by getting others to fight. This has been proved by all the officers who failed to be reelected [who] have gone home and are going to stay there if they can...J. W. M." The original transmittal cover is included. Both overall VG
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