2021-10 Raynors HCA Live
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/15/2021
A good war-date Union soldier's letter, 4pp. 8vo., written by Pvt. James O. Johnson, Co. H, 138th Ohio Vols., "June 5, 1864, Fort Craig, Arlington Heights opposite Washington City, " written to his wife, in part: "-I was sent out on picket Friday - some 2 miles from camp on the Fairfax road. There has been some mischief. Two killed going on out there - it was thought necessary to place a guard. As I walked my lonely beat at midnight hour I thought of home - the trials and temptations here is so very great where the voices of Blasphemy is constantly heard but - has no bearing on my mind - I may in any trial look upward and claim Jesus as my friend - we have just received orders to march to the front - our dangers are much increased thereby but - it disturbs me but little. Grant, I suppose, has suffered much in his last fights and hence the necessity of us going forward. We will probably be posted at the White House, 25 miles from Richmond on the Pamunky River to guard Grant's supplies. The wounded, poor fellows, are coming in daily. Many to die. From 75 to 120 are daily being deposited in the home of the dead. Poor fellows, they have fallen far from home and friends victims to the cruel ravages of war. As this may be my last chance to write for some time as we will be encumbered with-". Unsigned, but with an original stamped transmittal cover addressed: "Mrs. James O. Johnson, Cherry Grove, Hamilton County, Ohio." Moderate soiling, else VG.
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