Clapp, George (fl. 1839-1892) to Parents
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC09355.054 Author/Creator: Clapp, George (fl. 1839-1892) Place Written: Camp Sedgwick, Brandy Station, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 20 March 1864 Pagination: 11 p. : envelope ; 20 x 12.5 cm. Order a Copy
Just returned home from chapel. Two men were baptized today. One was Sergeant John W. Stockwell. "If a man can be a Christian in this army he can be one anywhere." Went down to Brandy Station this morning, and needed a pass signed by a company leader, regiment leader, brigade leader, division leader, and corps leader in order to do so. Now has "a real live specimen of red tape." Got wet while jumping over a brook today; no boots of any kind could have helped him stay dry there. Does not think the raids they have been conducting against the Rebels "amount to much." "I do not believe the man lives who can take command of the Army of the Potomac under the present administration and comply with the wants of the people of the North and win the victories they call for." Believes the Confederates number enough to attack Washington D.C. Looks like they will be on the move soon, but he does not know to where. Glad to receive some needle and threat, but still is looking for a comb. Is not "destitute of stockings" as his mother described him. Sylvester's farm is not "so poor," it still yields some food. Father would have done better to get Alabama silk for the threat, but it does not matter now. Does not want any beeswax, already has two pieces. Does not think that bottle he received did anything to help get rid of the lice. Has seen them survive in such extreme places as boiling water. The lines he wrote in the letter to his brother "brought vividly to my mind scenes that might occur in my absence." The feeling that comes from reading and writing is not present on the battlefield. Would give him Mamie's address, but will wait until after she writes him back to do so. There is to be "a grand review" of the Army of the Potomac by General Grant.
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