Edwards, Oliver, 1835-1904 to Eunice Lombard Edwards

Edwards writes to his mother from headquarters, 37th Regiment, Massachusetts Volunteers. His regiment will soon attempt to cross the Rappahannock River with ammunition and three days supplies. Notes that it was snowing when his regiment arrived, and one of his men froze to death after being struck over the head during a quarrel. Relates that houses in the vicinity have been taken over for officer's quarters, but that his sick men have been "perishing for want of other shelter than a cold Barn." Mentions General Charles Devens, Jr. Regarding his (Edward's) argument that his cold and dying soldiers should be allowed into homes in the area, states: "I am charged with disrespect and an erroneous statement because I represented the truth under a deliberate sense of duty, and no offer or preferred charges made to give me a chance to vindicate myself... dying men were refused admission into the houses because General Officers were there taking their ease." Demanded a Court of Inquiry, and notes a printed report from this court "will kill Devens politically in Massachusetts as dead as door nail." Sends his love.