March 2012 Auction Ends Wednesday, March 28th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/28/2012
Copies of two letters by S. Millett Thompson of the 13th New Hampshire Infantry from encampment near Portsmouth, Virginia. First letter, dated 2 June 1863, reads in part: ''...We are erecting heavy fortifications here, running across the neck of land lying between the West and South branches of the Elizabeth River...This portion of the South has suffered terribly. The soldier in the country of the enemy never questions ownership...if he wants anything he takes it if anything stands in his way he destroys it...The negroes bring into camp a great many things...They are very peculiar creatures, but they are our friends...Some are rough and rude, but bad conduct to either black or white...is frowned down...'' Black ink letter, measuring 8.25'' x 8.25'', runs 2pp. Second letter dated 6 December 1863 reads in part: ''...glad to hear that Copperhead principles find favor with you. I am also bitterly opposed to everything that tends to weaken the power of the limited States, as I am to the extension of negro slavery...I cannot see why Gen. Meade should have made such a powerful demonstration, and then so suddenly have retraced his steps. Had he advanced with a fair show of success, and at the same time had a heavy column been detached from this Department and forwarded up the Peninsular, Richmond might have fallen...If the Rebels were now assured that they would receive lenient treatment at the hands of the U.S. Govt., they would now be glad to succumb...They cannot be trusted, and if this war should end the Southern leaders would again, if they saw a fair promise of succeeding, dare another attempt for their independence...'' Black ink letter, measuring 8.25'' x 14'', runs 3pp. Several pin-holes and minor foxing to edges, otherwise near fine.
Copies of Two 13th NH Infantry Letters -- 1863 -- ''...the South has suffered terribly. The soldier...never questions ownership...if he wants anything he takes it...''
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