Raynors HCA 2017-12
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/7/2017
A great war-date Union officer's letter, 5pp. 8vo., written by 2nd Lt. Ira F. Gensel, 4th United States Regular Infantry, [MWIA Fredericksburg, Va., 12/13/62 died 12/28/62], "Camp at Harrison's Landing on James River, Va., July 9, 1862", in part: "Up at daylight-all officers around me asleep…how great the change since one week ago. Then the rebel cannon were throwing shot and shell into this very camp. Now they are on the way back to Richmond…I don't care even if they were hovering about us…as they were during the last battle. Our fortifications and rifle pits make us feel apparently secure…I almost wish they would come and attack us…how great your anxiety…my regiment has been in the fight…the 104th [Penn.] Regiment have been in none of the late battles…I see some one belonging to that regiment almost every day. Last evening I witnessed the grandest sight of my life and…the happiest. President Lincoln paid our army a visit and in company with Gen. McClellan and staff, reviewed what few there is remaining of the once grand Army of the Potomac. Although our ranks have been thinned and some of the best officers in the army…have we not kept the enemy at bay though out-numbered and almost over-powered. Can we not all feel proud. I most certainly do. The battles of Gaine's Mill-Charles City Cross Roads and Malvern Hill will be classic battlefields. I was in each…the review last evening was a grand affair. The bands were playing patriotic airs and cheer after cheer greeted the President. One thing was plainly to be seen. This army is not disheartened-they have not lost confidence in Genl. McClellan. He is now more than ever the idol of the army…seven days fighting through which this army has passed has no parallel. The President has been with us…he did not come in vain I trust whatever impressions were made he will carry back to the Capitol with him…we may look for tiring events in the next few days…god willing…I may do my part in taking Richmond…Ira F. Gensel." The original transmittal cover is included. Minor toning, else VG
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