13th & 33rd New York Infantry & 1st New York Veteran Cavalry - NEW

Item LTR-12120

Description

Original Civil War letter. 2 pages written in period pencil.


Headquarters, 33^rd Regiment New York Volunteers
 
May 9^th 1863
 
My Dearly Beloved Wife,
 
I received your kind and welcome letter, written on the 3rd, mailed the 4th. Did you know the danger I was passing through at that very moment? To attempt to describe it would be useless. As soon as the engagement was over, I wrote and sent a telegram, also to relieve your anxiety, which I hope you received. We have been moving about and doing so much duty since that, it has been impossible for me to find time to do anything. Our reports must be in, and there has been no mail leaving here. They are going to run regular again, although I intend sending this to Washington by a friend.
 
I telegraphed you my loss, which has increased somewhat since then. It is now 236, of which 18 killed, 129 wounded, and 89 missing. Frank Miles is safe and unhurt. I thought at one time I had got a ticket for Richmond. God only knows how I ever got out of the place. My horse was slightly wounded, and the bullets rained around my head like hail. My poor fellows fell all about me for a time. 
 
I know not how the battle would terminate, fatigued and exhausted. We marched back to this side of the river. Three sleepless nights found me ready to take some rest. I thought I never would get sleep enough. I am now rested and ready to go home and spend the summer. 
 
Do not laugh at this letter, for I am writing it on my knee while Mix is making out a report for me. We are back near our old camp, but do not expect to remain long.
 
Now, my dear, you must excuse me from writing anymore tonight, and I will tell you all when I get home. 
 
Believe me to remain,
 
Your affectionate husband, 
 
R.F. Taylor
 
P.S. I forgot to mention that one of the most pleasing little circumstances happened to me just before going into battle. I received a letter from you and read it while sitting on my horse.
 
Kiss the little ones for me and take one to yourself. 
 
R.F.T.