Tillotson, George W. (fl. 1830-1918) To his wife
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC04558.100 Author/Creator: Tillotson, George W. (fl. 1830-1918) Place Written: Gettys Point, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 20 June 1863 Pagination: 3 p. ; 20 x 12.5 cm. Order a Copy
Trying to comfort his wife, who was depressed by the death of a relation (Lucy who had died a year earlier). Expects marching orders soon.
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.
Getteys Point June 20th 1863
My Dear Wife
I have just received Yours of the 16th and am feeling considerably "down in the mouth" at the bad new[inserted: s] there in. I do hope and pray that there may be no more deaths in that little, [inserted: and] loved circle. The loss of one link in the chain has been almost unbearable, how much then do I dread that it should be still again broken. I do fervently pray that God in his goodness will see fit to spare you and my children and also allow me to once more behold and embrace you all. If such may be the case I think I shall be [2]satisfied, even though I have to pass through any amount of hardships first.
Yesterday we got orders to draw shelter tents for immediate use and turn in our [illustration: two diagonals forming a small tent.] tents. but did not get any positive marching orders. Today however I understand that marching orders have arrived, though what our destination is to be, I cant learn for certain though most every body are making conjectures The principle opinion is that we are going to the Black Water, while others say, we are going up the Peninsula and some think to Washington. At any rate wherever we go I think they mean to give us work to do, for we are to go in light marching order. I hear [3]that some of the officers say we are not going so far but what we shall find our way back here again. I hope not at least. Believe all I shall take bsides my rations and equipments is my overcoat, rubber blanket, and shelter tent. Unless it may be an extra shirt. I am very well except that I have been troubled for a few days with a lame back but am getting over it. I shall be very anxious to get another letter from you, and hope that the next may bring more cheering news. I will close now for if hurry up it may go out tonight. Acept my best love, and with a fervent wish for your health & happiness, I subscribe myself
Your true and loveing[sic] Husband
George W. Tillotson
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