Hill, Daniel H. (1821-1889) to Isabella M. Hill
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01080 Author/Creator: Hill, Daniel H. (1821-1889) Place Written: Yorktown, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 14 July 1861 Pagination: 2 p. ; 23.5 x 18.5 cm. Order a Copy
Hill writes to his wife with general news. Discusses measles in the camp and the reception of his commission as Brigadier General in the Provisional Army. Also comments on two Union deserters who came with news of an advance, and remarks that "it would be the height of madness to come here. Let them come. We are ready and anxious to free our soil from pirates and murderers." Comments on the strength of the Confederate works. Compliments the 5th North Carolina Regiment under Colonel McRinney. Notes that a friend brought him a mosquito net that helped him get a good night's sleep. Written just before the first battle of Bull Run.
Yorktown, VA
July 14, 1861
My Dear Wife,
I have gotten back from visiting the picket some nite or two out and it is neer eleven O'clock. But as I have not written today, I will drop you a line tonight. A gentleman from Mucklenburg informed me that you were in Richmond, and on that account I did not write today. I am truly glad that you did not come as the measles are still prevailing here. Some companies have forty cases, nine much sick, Col. Lee has been and still is quite sick with them. I trust that I will escape. We got some more heavy artillery today and are now pretty well provided.
My commission as Brigadier General in the Provisional Army came to hand this morning. It is dated July 10th, one month later than the N.C. Commission in order to put me under command of Magruder.
Well, it is alright. I never had a fancy for responsibility and I am glad to be relieved of it. Two deserters from the enemy came in yesterday. They represent that a movement upon us is contemplated. If so, they are getting ready for a pretty severe flogging. Our works are now very formidable & they can become more so every day. It would be the height of madness to come here. Let them come. We are ready and anxious to free our soil from pirates and murderers.
The 5th N.C. Regiment (Colonel McRinney) is a fine body of men. The 6th (Colonel Lee father of C.G. Lee) has been sent elsewhere. They seem to be unwilling to let us have the necessary force. (One N.C. Regt is worth two of any I have yet seen in the field. I believe every body feels and acknowledges the noble character of the old state. You must excuse a brief note. I am very tired.
A kind friend brought me a mosquito net from Richmond and I got last night the only good sleep I have had for a month. I feel like a new man today. Kindest regards to all your father's family & much love to your self and children.
Affectionately,
D.H. Hill
Husband
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