2025-01 Raynors Historical Collectible Auctions
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/25/2025
A great pair of interesting and colorfully worded Union cavalryman's letters, totaling 6pp. 8vo., both on patriotic stationery, by Private Rolan E. Maranville, Co. F, 2nd New York (Harris Light) Cavalry, [MWIA Second Bull Run, Va., August 28, 1862] both written from Camp Palmer, Arlington, Virginia. The first letter is on "Majestic Monarch of the Cloud Defends The Banner of the Free" patriotic stationery, Feb. 19, 1862, reading, to his Cousin Emma, in part: "- it is raining pitch forks - we read the war news. When we get good news we fall in the company and try our lungs. Then talk about going home - we generally wind up with a smoke and retire. We have been expecting to move south, but the roads are so bad it is all a horse can do to walk - I think the horse that George had is dead. [Cyrus H.] Wescott is alive yet. He is pineing away to a cart load. He is going to get his discharge. He goes around with a big cane. [Westcott was discharged from the Armory Hospital because of wounds on Sept. 4, 1862.] We keep one kitten and two small dogs - yours, R. E. Maranville." The second letter appears on "Then Conquer We Must" patriotic stationery, April 2, 1862, reading, to his Cousin Emma, in part: " - we have to drill everyday without stirrups & swing the saber [with the] horses on the run. I have made up my mind it is a little tough. I guess I shall have [to] stand on my head & ride yet - yesterday I went to the city for horses. It made me think of home to see men in citizen's dress walking around taking their ease. I groused to be independent, but I have come down to soldier style & do things by rule. Fred Campbell that worked in Hampton has left. He deserted a week ago - if he is found & brought back. He may get a little cold lead to settle his supper - your etc., R. E. M." Both letters retain their original stamped transmittal covers and are in near fine condition.
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