7th Massachusetts Infantry

Item LTR-5604

Description

Original Civil War soldier's letter. 4 pages written in period ink.

Washington

September 8th [1861]

Friend Samuel,

Having a few hours today, I thought I would improve them in writing a few lines to you.

The health of our regiment continues remarkably good considering the large amount of wet weather we have had for the last month and the usage which we received.

Our brigade has just finished the 2nd fort and will commence upon the third and last this week, unless we have orders to march, which we are daily expecting. As it is evident that there is to be a movement made against the enemy very soon. But where the blow is to be struck, no one knows except those high in authority. But the prevailing opinion is that another trial is to be made at Manassas. If so, it will probably be conducted in a different manner from that of the 21st of July. And I trust attended with different result.

Mr. Buffington has been appointed aide de camp to General Couch, formerly our Colonel, but now commanding our brigade. It is very convenient to have Mr. Buffington with us as he very kindly franks all our letters for us. Our lieutenant colonel not being capable of commanding the regiment, we have been fortunate enough to secure one from regular army. His name is Davis. He was formerly a captain in the 2nd Regiment of United States Infantry, and was at the Battle of Bull Run. He is much liked by the men and has the appearance of being both a soldier and a gentleman.

I suppose you have heard of the rumor of the death of President Davis. This rumor wasn’t discredited here until this morning, when I learned that it has been ascertained from a reliable source that such is the fact. It is said that their flag was seen at half mast upon their fortifications at Munson Hill by our pickets last night.

A private of the Third regiment of Vermont Volunteers is to be shot tomorrow at nine o’clock a.m. for being found asleep upon his post while on picket guard.

I have nothing more of importance to write at this time.

Please give my best respects to all the folks.

Yours,

Henry Tolman











Henry Tolman