3rd Rhode Island Heavy Artillery - Brevet Brigadier General - NEW

Item LTR-12074

Description

Original Civil War letter. 3 pages written in period ink.


Headquarters Battery C
3^rd Rhode Island Volunteer Artillery
Morris Island, South Carolina
 
September 27 1863
 
Dear Colonel,
 
Don't get vexed with me for boring you with so many letters, but I have new light since writing you last. 
 
My friends here do not want me to leave the regiment and department, and will do anything to keep me here, consistent with your wishes. If you want me for your Lieutenant Colonel, it can now be done. I can get rid of Frieze here and you can recommend me to the governor for his place when vacant, which I think the governor will give me. You need not be concerned in the affair at all, and consequently not incur the displeasure of Frieze’s friends at home. Here, he has none. It is for you to say whether I remain, the way is open. All the captains, except Shaw, Goud, and Strahan award the place to me. All agree that Frieze must be removed. I want to be second to you in command. Why I make the egotistical request I have written you at length before. General Gilmore, General Terry, and Colonel Turner all insist upon my staying if I can get a position in my own regiment, and will write to oust Frieze at once.
 
As soon as Jackson gets back from the North, which will be by the next trip of the Arago, the plan is to have him inspect the regiment and have him report on Frieze's competency. When his case will be treated by the general commanding, it is a sure thing I know. General Terry sent for me last eve and expressed much kind feeling, and is going to act immediately as above. He, having consulted department headquarters, which is quisse in his views of removing Frees. I told Terry that you intended to do this, and that I thought you would give me his place. I know your letter was confidential, but hope I did no wrong, as it goes no farther, and the whole subject is quiet, but nevertheless working out to the end. So much to be desired. Don't think, Colonel, that I would desert you on account of any poppycock stories I may hear. I wrote that I would accept a position elsewhere because I knew of no chance here, and felt you were tied. I was ambitious. You cannot blame me for that. A man without it is comparatively worthless. I shall be mustered out on my commission if I get it by the auditor, come home and see you and the governor, and if the above can be satisfactorily arranged, return immediately, as Frieze will be ousted by that time.
 
If I have been too fast, pardon me, and I go no further. My only wish is to see the third first and foremost, if I can bring it about by my exertions. But Colonel, I don't want to be under a man who knows less than I. I know you are not to blame for being at home, and hope you may be with us soon.
 
We had a fine review Thursday. The 3rd Rhode Island Battalion carried off the palm for soldierly appearance and excellent marching. I felt proud of them and assure you, we have the finest regiment in service. A little pruning and it will grow better.
 
The Battery C appeared finely, so Henry said, and he should know. I had six pieces, a new silk guidon, good horses, and everything in good order. I asked no odds of them now, and can beat Henry drilling in the breach anytime. Morrow will probably be court-martialed. It is just the example will be good, and if I am a field officer here, will tell officers that I cannot be tampered with.
 
Hoping to see you soon. 
 
I remain truly yours, 
 
C.R. Brayton