Archer, Edward R. (fl. 1830-1917) to his mother
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01896.071 Author/Creator: Archer, Edward R. (fl. 1830-1917) Place Written: London, [England] Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 8 January 1865 Pagination: 4 p. ; 26 x 21 cm. Order a Copy
Archer writes to his mother, Frances, from England where he has sailed in the steamer C. S. S. Hawk in order to sell it at auction. His spirits are very low as he discusses the damage done by the failure of the "scheme to establish the V[irginia]. V[olunteer]. N[avy]." and says he desires to defend his role in the matter. Furthermore, he makes repeated references to H. [Samuel Harrison, President of the Board of the Volunteer Virginia Navy] who has apparently vanished. Lamenting that he is almost broke, he borrowed money to pay his expenses in Bermuda, and has "one and sixpence just enough to rattle in my pocket to keep up appearances in company." Archer also talks about the conduct of the war, expressing concern over Gen. Lee's remarks that it is time to arm the enslaved people. Edward believes enslaved people should first be employed in other, support roles in the army first before they are given guns. Laments over the fall of Savannah and especially Fort Fisher, since Wilmington is the only convenient point left to reenter the South [other than Texas].
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