Tillotson, George W. (fl. 1830-1918) To his wife
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC04558.066 Author/Creator: Tillotson, George W. (fl. 1830-1918) Place Written: Camp opposite Fredericksburg, [Virginia] Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 5 February 1863 Pagination: 4 p. : note ; 19 x 11.5 cm. Order a Copy
Continued February 6. With small greeting card. Worries about family succumbing to scarlet fever, commenting on his patriotism: "...I am not the only one in these digins whose patriotism has cooled down so that we can look at the matter as it stands, and count the cost also. And as I count it[,] it has cost now in treasure more than I would give for the whole south, to say nothing of the blood and misery. Now in all reason isnt it better to let that go and be lost rather than spend twice or three times as much more and then not be any better off but just the cost out, and be the worse off by haveing a bankrupt government and ourselves be the worst taxed slaves that the world affords. And even could the south be whiped back into the Union (which I cant see) what kind of union do you suppose it would be? Just no union at all so far as union in feeling is concerned. I believe if we ever get them back into the union, that we shall soon be sick enough of them to wish them out again." Also discusses weather, anticipating that he will join Burnside in NC, notes that he did not make 2nd sergeant and that two corporals were promoted above him.
Tillotson was thirty-one years old when he enlisted as a corporal on November 5, 1861. He mustered in H company of the NY 89th infantry or Dickinson Guards and later promoted to Sergeant. He was discharged on December 18, 1864.
[Draft]
Camp opposite Fredericksburg Feb 5th , 63
My Dear Wife
Yours of the 29th Ult I received last evening Am glad to hear that you are all well and pray that...you may remain so and above all that you may escape the Scarlet fever. I would have you know that I am not the only one in these digins whose patriotism has cooled down so that we can look at the matter as it stands, and count the cost also. And as I count it it has cost [inserted: now] in treasure more than I would give for the whole south, to say nothing of the blood and misery. Now in all reason wasnt it better to let that, go and be lost rather [2] than spend twice or three times as much more and then not be any better off [struck: only] [inserted: but] just the cost out, and be the worse off by haveing a bankrupt government and ourselves be the worst taxed slaves that the world affords. And even could the South be whiped back into the Union (which I can't see) what kind of a union do you suppose it would be [illegible] just no union at all so far as union in feeling is concerned. I believe if we wer get them back into the union, that we shall soon be sick enough of them to wish them out again. But enough; you will probably conclude with Ed that I am a rebel…[3]…[4]…
George W Tillotson
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