Coit, Charles M. (1838-1878) to his family
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03603.299 Author/Creator: Coit, Charles M. (1838-1878) Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 12 July 1864 Pagination: 2 p. Order a Copy
Requests a valise to be sent from home. Says a sutler, who is supplied by Smith and Co. in Norwich, has joined the troops. Notes that Captain Henry C. Hall was killed when he "exposed himself needlessly." Mentions two books or magazines "Atlantic" and "The River."
Camp, July 12, 1864
Dear All,
I write this P.M. to ask you to spend some of the cash that George has so successfully collected this Quarter. He's a bully boy. I very much need a valise my little carpet bag will not carry any thing & I have lately carried some articles in the Adjutant's Regimental box but Col. Ward expects to take command tomorrow P.M. & then I shall want to move my traps from Hd. Qts. I prefer a sole leather valise but dont pay more than $10 or $12 for one and I dont think you can get a good sized well made - sole - leather one for near that price. several of our Officers have a kind of valise that I like pretty well that I think is much cheaper - black shiny leather like the bag that has my name on it, only made in form of a valise & larger. Some of this last kind are good for nothing break right out & others made of better leather are quite desirable. I think this kind will suit me very well. I'd like it pretty large sized and with as - good inside arrangements& as possible and marked - "Chas M Coit 8th Conn Vol Inft" - and directed to me - Capt 8th C.V. - care of smith & Co. Norfolk, Va. - Please send also an ink stand one that will close tight & not tip over too easily - rubber I think will be best. Recd this A.M. yours of 8th & one from Geo at Norwich enclosing an x dated 7th. - I dont want any more money. - There is a rumor that we shall be paid soon. Hope it is true that I may refund you. I send for the valise now because our sutler has just joined us again & he buys of Smith & Co. of Norfolk & will be going back & forth often & will get it for me. Agreed being directed care of a firm in business it will come right through I think. When I need any under clothing I think I can obtain from the sanitary commission - so you need not invest in that. Best love to all - will try to answer yours tomor- row but am too busy this P.M. Another of our captains killed yesterday - Capt. Henry C. Hall - through carelessness entirely or rather he exposed himself needlessly. He was one of the best officers left to us & know not how to spare him. Your affct son & bro Chas Please send me "Atlantic" for July want to finish "The River"
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