Clapp, George (fl. 1839-1892) to Parents
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC09355.063 Author/Creator: Clapp, George (fl. 1839-1892) Place Written: Headquarters of the Provost Guard, 6th Corps Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 1 May 1864 Pagination: 8 p. : envelope ; 20.3 x 12.6 cm. Order a Copy
This is likely his last Sunday at this camp. Orders came in that when they do break camp, they must not burn the camp down like usual. They must also not light any fires for the first two weeks that they are on the move so as to not give away their position. Those orders point to the beginning of a march very soon. The mail has not stopped yet. Sorry to hear that they all have "hard colds;" fortunately has not had one yet. Gets wet often, but the clothes dry right on his body. Sees Sid as often as he can. "I expected to hear you had built a hen house long before this." Supposes she will be able to provide "half the town" with eggs. Wants to know why Charles Graves was removed. Thought his feet had begun to actually rot, so he was afraid to take his socks off. Hopes Mother is feeling better. Hopes the "Old Fellow" has success with his vegetable patch. Exactly one year ago was one of the most grueling days of his life: the Marye Heights battle at Chancellorsville. In only 16 months, he will be home. Heard sentences read to 7 of the deserters. Five were sentences to "10 years hard labor with a ball and chain attached to their leg." One was sentenced to 5 years of hard labor, and another was to be shot by the provost guard. The last man "took it calm as you please and said he was ready then to be shot." They must wear the ball and chain wherever they go. Got a letter from Helen Clapp the other day. Hopes he will be able to write more next time.
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