Raynors HCA 2019-09
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/26/2019
A good war-date battle of Fredericksburg letter, 4pp. 8vo., written by Pvt. Charles Jeffer, Co. A, 9th New Hampshire Vols., "Camp near Falmouth, V. A., Jan. 31, 1863", to his father, in part: "…the soldiers one and all are heartily sick of this war and the way it is carried on. They think that there are as big traitors in this army as there is across the Rappahannock and besides being traitors a great many of them are cowards and deserve to be kicked out of the camp, even our Lieut Col. (acting as Col.) At the Battle of Fredericksburg when we were marching up. We came to a deep cut where a railroad passed through from which after leaving left…we were exposed to the [most] deeply of fire of the Rebel's batteries and sharp shooters. Not thinking it safe for him [Lt. Col. Josiah Stevens, Jr]…cried out, go on boys and we did go on, but he staid behind. The boys showered loud and bitter curses on him. They fairly hate him. He came out as Capt. in Co. I. but got promoted. We would be as glad to get rid of him [he declined his commission and resigned from service after the battle] as we were sorry to lose Col. [Enoch Q.] Fellows who while he was with us treated us like men. The boys all say that they will stay till spring and then if the war still goes on…they will go home and leave their officers who are only out here for the pay…if these cursed officers could be made to charge on a rebel battery as the poor privates have to do they would be for settling up this war…I could not satisfy myself if I should write a week…N. B. I think you have the right view of the war…I sent a strip by Peter Sherman. Have you got it…he will tell you all about Newcomb [2nd Lt. Oliver P. Newcomb, resigned Jan. 11, 1863]…Charles…". The original stamped transmittal cover is included. Minor toning, else VG.
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