Coit, Charles M. (1838-1878) to his family
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03603.284 Author/Creator: Coit, Charles M. (1838-1878) Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 19 May 1864 Pagination: 2 p. Order a Copy
Writes that they endured a "flogging" from the rebels on Monday night. Notes that there is an order to clear trees in front of the rifle pits. He requests money.
Camp 8th Conn Vol Inft May, 19, P.M.
Dear All, Two days in Camp, no I take that back. We returned to Camp Monday night after the flogging the Rebs had given us. I was so thoroughly worn out that I doubt whether I could have reached camp if I had not begged a ride in an Ambulance the last three miles. The next morning we were ordered to move camp + as Col. Smith was unwell I had to take command of the Regt. At noon before we had fairly pitched our camp, the whole Regt was ordered out to "slash" the woods in front of the rifle pits that our troops were building - so I mounted col. ward's horse + marched off the Regt. on reaching the ground I dismissed all the off's except two Lieuts + I remained with the Regt until about 12 P.M. when I had another Capt. relieve me + I returned to camp to sleep part of the night. The men were kept at work all night + were not relieved until 7 P.M. this evening, over thirty hours continuous chopping after so many hard work fighting. To day I have been in command of the two Regts (118th N Yk + 8th corn) that were slashing but as both were relieved for the night this evening I hope to have a quiet night. Slashing is cutting down all the trees in a wood about 3 or 4 feet from the ground + having their tops fall towards the enemy. It makes a barrier that it is almost impossible for troops to get over. I am still in command of the Regt. + a Lieut has charge of my Co. I am very well but not half rested. About half the Regt, offs + men, are sick but I am so tough that I still stand it. The first ten days after we landed we fought eight + in the eight days have lost in action in offs + men one hundred + forty one - seven are officers. In the last days fight Capt John McCall was killed. He was a Norwich man + about our best captain. He was a good friend of mine + I shall greatly miss him. From all reports I dont think col. smith behaved very well the last day, I wish Col. Ward had been with us. Must go to bed. Love Affct son + bro Chas.
[top margin first page] Have not written Mrs. Goddard yet - dont know how + have not had a minute to spare. Can you send me some money $10 or $20. Sorry to ask for it.
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