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

Item LTR-12121

Description

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

Headquarters, 1^st Brigade, 2^nd Division, 6^th Corps
February 14, 1863
 
My Dearly Beloved Wife,
 
Your letter written last Sunday was received by me today. It does really seem a long time to wait from one weekend to another for a letter. I presume you have seen Mr. Roach and got all of the news, and more than I could write in a week. For in fact, I have nothing to write about.
 
Everything is remarkably quiet at the present time. It may be that the old adage is working, that is, there is always a calm before a storm.
 
There are some little movements transpiring, which causes us old stagers to think that something is afoot, but nothing indicating an particular movement.  I am of the opinion that we shall not remain in action much longer.
 
In your letter, you seem to favor my proposition to visit me. Nothing would give me more pleasure if you could have someone to accompany you back. Perhaps Mrs. Drain or Mrs. Roach will come, or Mrs. Kramer. Although I am satisfied you could find your way back, still, it would be more pleasant to have company. You had better wait if you are all ready to start before you receive this until you hear from me again, for at present there is considerable prospect of my being home soon. I shall know in a few days. I am now in a position which embarrasses me very much to know what is best to do, having command of a brigade. If the army should move, an opening might be made for promotion. On the other hand, if I am superseded, it will be too late for me to accomplish my other objective, which is to prevent the consolidation of my regiment with any other.
 
So you see, I am here between two fires. I intend making application in the morning to go home, with the view of a certainty, if possible. What is to be done with my regiment? I understand that the government intends to hold all the men. I enlisted last fall and myself with them.
 
Now, if I am compelled to stay, I want a fair, open field, which the general is disposed to give me. He says he wants me to stay, and he wants me to have a regiment, at least, and that I shall have one, etc., etc..
 
I shall write you in a few days, or as soon as I hear from the paper what is to be done, and what I expect to do. Hoping this may find you all well.
 
I remain, your affectionate husband, 
 
R.F. Taylor
Colonel 
Commanding
1st Brigade
 
Kiss the children for me, and receive one yourself.