Coit, Charles M. (1838-1878) to his family
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03603.312 Author/Creator: Coit, Charles M. (1838-1878) Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 18 August 1864 Pagination: 2 p. Order a Copy
Writes from camp Bermuda that he would like to re-enlist for a period of time less than three years but that it seems impossible. He is not angry with the service or the mission but rather with the regimental management. He writes that many lives were lost when "a great freshlet" swept through the ravine where many of the troops were camped.
Dont expect to be paid off until after Octo. 1.
Camp Augt 18, 1864
Dear All, A few lines that you may know that I am still well. Have recd yours to the 13th inst. Am so glad that George is enjoying himself this summer what a fine time he will have west with John K - how kind of John to invite him. I wish I was with them or any where but here. I am intending to leave the service at the expiration of my three years I am not disposed to be remustered for another - three- years & there is no possiblity of being mustered for a shorter time I think. I am not tired or disgusted with the service but I am thoroughly tired & disgusted both with the present management of affairs in this Regt & long to be rid of all. The trouble originates at the Regt's head & is diffusing itself throughout the whole. I long to talk it all over with you. I shall try to do my whole duty so long as I remain and I know all will allow that I have tried to do it thus far. I went to city Point yesterday to inquire after my Express & the Agent informed me that the 18th Army corps lost nothing in the explosion so I am hoping my things will turn up somewhere. Have not written for several days because we have been constantly in the trenches. We have had a great freshlet here sweeping through the ravine where a large portion of our corps were encamped carrying away camps & every thing, my Co. lost knapsacks & almost every thing fortunately my tent was on the side hill & escaped. Quite a number of lives were lost none from the 8th but two were so badly injured as to oblige sending them to Hospital. Cant write more now am too cross. We go to the front again to night. We have drenching rains every day & the pits are in terrible condition Regards to every body & best love to you Chas
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