Camp 32^d Regt Mass Vol

Weldon R.R. Near Petersburg, Va

Sept 2^d 1864

Col F J Parker  

                        Dear Friend. Your note of Aug 18^th came duly at hand and should have answered before this had I the opportunity. I can say nothing in favor of Private Joseph Pew character as a man or soldier, as he has always been a straggler & shirk. he straggled on the first days march, May 1^st and has not been with his Reg't since. I made the inquiry of Private Donovan. he told me that Pew was near the Reg't on the day of the Battle May 5^th and that he directed Pew where the Regt lay in line of Battle. he (Pew) did not feel inclined to find his Regt. but choose to stop in the rear near Div Hosp't.

 

            Private Donovan also tells me that Pew was neither sick or wounded and had he choose to show his soldierly qualities he would had a fine opportunity that day. My opinion of him in a few words is this a Coward Shirk & Straggler

 

Respectfully Yours

Stephen Rich

 

[endorsement]

 

Stephen Rich

Sept 2^d 1864

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