West, Lewis H. (b. 1829) to R. West
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03836.09 Author/Creator: West, Lewis H. (b. 1829) Place Written: Hampton Roads, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 16 July 1861 Pagination: 4 p. : docket ; 24.6 x 19.1 cm. Order a Copy
Signed twice by West. A follow up letter to GLC03836.08. Says his ship will resupply at Hampton Roads and then cruise between there and Cape Hatteras. Hopes that "we shall do our duty more efficiently than we have so far, as the blockade we established of the St. Mary's river was nothing but a ridiculous farce, had there been any vessels in there they could have got out at any time." Says this was partially because of their captain "having the most extraordinary ideas of blockading ever heard of." Goes on to say "he was afraid of being becalmed inshore and having a steamer come out to attack him." Sends list of articles he would like sent from home. Mentions getting some newspapers. Continues letter on 17 July. Says he received a letter from his sister Mary. Says he might be going up to Philadelphia or New York soon, so their ship can have a change of armament. Says that "Much as I should like to see you again I must confess that if possible, I would sooner start on our cruise from here. I could never feel satisfied, that we were doing our duty if we unnecessarily lost time."
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