Bettes, William H. to Lodema
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02596.05 Author/Creator: Bettes, William H. Place Written: Chantilly, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 24 November 1862 Pagination: 2 p. : envelope ; 24.8 x 19.8 cm. Order a Copy
Writes from Chantilly Camp. Received a letter from his family and was very glad to hear that they are all well at home. Writes that it appears Wilford Merriman is doomed to suffer as long as he lives. Glad to hear that Eusebus Austin is likely to succeed in getting his quota of men because he is a good man and would make a good officer. His wife wrote about sending his trunk by Eusebus, but Bettes does not think that this is the best idea. Needs two pairs of drawers, one pair of socks, one pair of pants, a shirt, and a quilt sent to him. Finds it very difficult to get clothing while they are in the field. Has been at the camp since last Friday, which has given them a nice rest, but they expect to be on the move again in a few days. Expects to have good news in a few days because "the Rebels have concluded to act upon the defensive again in place of invading the North. They think it best to defend Richmond." The whole Rebel force has fallen back to Richmond, only leaving a few stragglers in the war. Believes that there will soon be a decisive battle fought near Richmond; it will be a terrible affair. Thinks that the Union forces must number some 200,000 men and Sigel's Corps number around 40,000. Feels that they will move from here to protect the rear of Burnside's Army. Washington is no longer in immediate danger. Writes that the days of the Southern Confederacy are already numbered and nothing but treachery on the part of Union generals can prolong its existence.
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