2008-09
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/31/2008
A war-date New Jersey officer's letter written by 2nd Lt. Charles Wilson, Co. A, 3d N. J. Vols., "Maj. Genl Franklin's Corps Army of Potomac", 4p. octavo, pencil, Near Warrenton, Virginia, November 10, 1862, with cover addressed to "Sergt. James S. Stratton, 12th Regt. New Jersey Vols, Ellicott's Mill Md.", it reads in part: "…The future looks dark I wish I was out of the Army. Maj. Genl. McClellan bade our Brigade farewell this day. He was received with great enthusiasm but there is a gloom from the right to the left of this army. Nothing will demoralize this army so much as to take away their leader in whom we all have explicit confidence. I fear the next great battle which will soon be fought will not be much of a victory….I had a long talk with Capt. [Arthur] McClellan [bvt. colonel, April 9, 1865] the Genl's brother he spoke of the corruption which is at home of the head departments of our Government. After the coming battle I will try and get to see you if I survive it. I have tried to get you commission but I do not think I can do it with out you here in my comp'y…Nothing would give me more pleasure than to have you with me, but you would be likely to see some hard fighting. You stated that Chas. Kain talked of joining the army, tell him to join in an old regiment if he joins as it will be a hundred times easier for him. We have marched from Williamsport Md to this place in six days it was the hardest marching we have had for some time over the mountains. There is heavy firing just commenced on our right. You may soon look for a general engagement…." VG.
Click on a thumbnail above to display a larger image below
Hold down the mouse button and slide side to side to see more thumbnails(if available).
Click above for larger image.