Letter to sister

Scope and content:

Written from "Camp near the Chickahominy, Old Battlefield of Gaines Mill," Virginia. Letter describes the Battle of Cold Harbor, Virginia.

Language:

English

Other descriptive data:

Camp near the Chickahominy
Old Battlefield of Gaines Mill
June 4th, 1864

My Dear Sister
We had a heavy fight yesterday & repulsed the enemy at all points with heavy loss- our loss comparatively small. The enemy overpowered the left of our Brigade & had possession of their works for a short time but were soon driven from them with great slaughter. I have lost several friends- one very dear. One Capt. J. K. Thompson 22nd Regt. it is feared mortally wounded. A more gallant boy and a better friend never lived. I loved him as a brother. I want to see him but am very sick. We were relived in the trenches last night after 10 days very hard service. I am still not with my command but if I get any worse I shall be compelled to go to the rear. Tell Sam Barber that Lt. Donaldson is captured. Lt. Arnold killed and a good many of the Ka. Riflemen wounded captured. Adjt. Craig killed. Col. Edgar bayonet wound in shoulder- slight. We are in good spirits & determined to whip Grant. Have no fears. Write to Uncle J. I am safe. Pray for men- all the Adjt. in the Brigade are either killed or wounded except me. My time may come next. Best love to all. Good Bye.
Your loving Bro.
James

Subjects:

Cold Harbor, Battle of, Va., 1864

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