West, Lewis H. (b. 1829) to R. West
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03836.11 Author/Creator: West, Lewis H. (b. 1829) Place Written: Alexandria, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 23 July 1861 Pagination: 2 p. : docket ; 24.5 x 19.4 cm. Order a Copy
Says the news about the Battle of Bull Run has been confirmed, "Our army has suffered a most shameful and bloody defeat." Says all the fugitives streamed into Alexandria and "at one time it was thought it would be expedient to set fire to the buildings containing government stores at this place." Was glad it did not come to that. Reports that "The troops as they came in, although entirely disorganized did not appear to be so much panic stricken, as dejected and ashamed. All who have come into this place have their arms with them." Believes it will come to light that the defeat was caused by incompetent officers.
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