Irvine, Charles (1756-1819) to Alexander Irvine
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01450.023.07 Author/Creator: Irvine, Charles (1756-1819) Place Written: Staten Island, New York Type: Autograph letter signed Date: circa October 1781 Pagination: 3 p. : address : docket ; 22.5 x 18.5 cm. Order a Copy
Writes to his brother in Aberdeen, Scotland that mail has been very irregular. The last letter he received from Alexander was dated 20 September. Comments that to the satisfaction of troops in New York, he has heard that Great Britain will continue the war. Reports that they are expecting a needed reinforcement of troops and ships. They do not know where the Continental army will strike next. Informs that they will be on Staten Island for the coming months. Discusses his need for finances and says he has been living very frugally since joining the regiment. Asks him to have his Aunt Mary and Bell get a few strong, plain shirts made and sent to him as soon as possible. Gives love to their mother and friends. Charles Irvine was a soldier in the British army during the Revolutionary War. Letter is undated so date is inferred from content and from the dates of other letters in the group.
Charles Irvine served in the British Army for fifteen years before going on half pay. But he soon returned, and eventually rose to the rank of major general.
Alexander Irvine was the Eighteenth Laird of Drum. He was involved in a number of financial squabbles during his early life.
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