Cook, Gustave (1835-1897) to Eliza Cook
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02570.21 Author/Creator: Cook, Gustave (1835-1897) Place Written: Mooresville, Alabama Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 16 March 1862 Pagination: 6 p. Order a Copy
Cook wants Eliza to come visit him in Alabama. He thinks that even though it is expensive ($200 each way), it will be worth it if the war lasts much longer. He thinks that the war will be over before the year is through and plans to see Eliza in May. He writes, "It is honorable to serve one's country and yet you have almost made me homesick by asking me to come to you. There my heart is and there I would be but for stern [imperative?] duty. I am true and faithful to you in all aspects and let the war last as long as it may as I shall continue." Cook continues with apologies for taking Eliza's kindnesses for granted while he was home.
Born in Alabama on July 3, 1835, Cook moved to Texas alone at the age of 15 and studied law independently. Cook enlisted as a private in 8th Texas Cavalry, "Terry's Texas Rangers," in 1861 and was promoted to colonel by July 1863. After the war he became a circuit court judge for Galveston, served in the Texas state legislature and led an unsuccessful campaign for governor in 1890. He died in 1897 of complications from a wound suffered during his military service.
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