Dalton Georgia

February 26 1864

 

My Dear Sir

                        It is with sincere grief that I inform you of the death of your son, Lieutenant Tho^s H. Riddle of my company. This is indeed a most painfull duty for me to perform, and I can only assure you that he died while nobly performing his duty in defense of his country. He was struck by a shell in a engagement, which occurred on yesterday, February 25 1864, about 2 O'clock P.M. and received a mortal wound from which he died about five hours afterwards. His body has been decently interred about one mile from the town of Dalton. I will send you what effects he left by the first opportunity. He was paid by the Quarter / master, to include the 31^st day of January 1864 and so there is twenty five days pay due you as his representative. I know that I can offer you no comfort or consolation in your bereavement, but I do most heartily sympathise with you in your sad loss for I will long miss the gallant officer and good soldier from my command, and also the kind and cheerfull companion and friend from my mess.

 

Your son's place will not easily be supplied, for he was remarkable for the strict performance of every duty and every command.

 

I am with much respect

 

Yours truly

Thomas W Patton Captain

Co "C" 60 NC Reg^t.

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