Coit, Charles M. (1838-1878) to his family
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03603.121 Author/Creator: Coit, Charles M. (1838-1878) Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 8 July 1862 Pagination: 3 p. Order a Copy
Writes, "I have no doubt that Richmond will be ours within a week." False news of a defeat of McClellan's Brigade had reached the regiment only to be replaced with news of a victory. The 8th regiment is to join McClellan's Brigade once other regiments meet up near Fort Monroe. Written on board the ship "the Guide" near Fortress Monroe.
On steamer Guide Off Fortress Monroe July 8, 1862 Dear All, We still lie at anchor quite near the walls of this great fort waiting for orders to sail up the James or rather waiting the arrival of the remainder of the Burnside fleet which we expected here this morning. We are the first Regt to reach this place & we think it pretty smart considering that we were obliged to unload this vessel, then coal her & afterwards load our own stores, & the Generals gave col. H to understand yesterday that they ^too thought we had been smart. we got much brighter news from McClellan last night. when we first arrived (& while we were yet at Morehead city) we heard that his loss was 30,000, large number of guns, had burned all his baggage &c &c, so now as we get at the truth it is so different that it seems too good to be believed. It is here considered a much greater victory to our side than to the rebels & surely I think it was. I have no doubt but Richmond will be ours within a week. The Rebels after being reinforced by Beauregard's 65,000 & Jackson's army attacked us in vastly superior numbers but when Buell with his army of 110,000 joins McC. the odds will be the other way. Buell must be very near, perhaps & very likely has joined with Mcc by this time. Then Pope's division is on the move & though all information respecting him is most carefully concealed yet we know that most important things are expected of him. The only feeling expressed him is of fear lest Pope should reach Richmond before McClellan. we are to join Mcclellans army immediately on the arrival of rest of fleet, today or tomorrow Don't know how you should direct to me perhaps co B 8th c of Burnsides division Mcclellan's Army Virginia. Boat is going ashore & I must close. I would like two or three cotton shirts (perhaps checked ones will look best when I am in my shirt sleeves) & a couple of pairs of ^thin cotton or linen drawers, when you have opportunity to send & when I can tell you where to find me - every thing is too uncertain at present. Your most affct Son & bro Chas Love to every body.
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