Clapp, George (fl. 1839-1892) to Parents
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC09355.076 Author/Creator: Clapp, George (fl. 1839-1892) Place Written: Petersburg, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 5 July 1864 Pagination: 8 p. : envelope ; 20.3 x 12.5 cm. Order a Copy
Finally received a letter from them. Will respond immediately, as he had held off writing another letter home for the arrival of one. The corps left on a raid to destroy part of the Weldon Railroad. "They met with no trouble at all" and returned 4 days later. Headquarters for the corps has moved a mile and a half into the woods. That raid was the first march that he did not go on with the rest of the corps. "When we move the dust is so thick we can hardly see a rod from us either way." Their division's job seems to be to guard the far left and rear of the besieging Union army. "They are banging away" at the city of Petersburg. Has often sent them papers, but they have yet to acknowledge getting them. Will send a paper from North Carolina soon. Tells them not to worry about Sid. It is likely that he is simply unable to write. At the very least "Sid knows very well how anxious you all are to hear from him." Had to stop writing for a bit to guard some prisoners. It is hot enough to "boil eggs in the shade." Was going to end the letter, but decided to write a bit more. Looks to receive a letter about once a week. Would love to have some of Charlie's eggs and lettuce. Got some string beans to eat today. Has had a lot of pickled onions recently. Was very lucky to receive a job with the provost guard. Hopes they still pickle those green tomatoes they plant. Has a few boils, but has been taking care of them himself. Will send a paper home in a day or two.
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