Letter dated 25 August 1864, from Silas Doolittle, 75^th New York State Volunteer Infantry

 

                                                            Bolivar Heights near Harpers Ferry

                                                                        Aug 25^th, 1864

 

Dear Sister,

Your welcome letter of the 14^th came to hand a few days ago, which answered the 20^th. Since then we have moved about 7 miles and are now entrenched on Bolivar Heights with the “Johnnys” right in front. I have just been looking at them with a glass. There is heavey Skirmishing in front all the time, and has been for 3 days.

 

Day before yesterday our Regt. went out and drove their Pickets into the woods “Pell Mell”. Although there was considerable firing our Regt only lost one man wounded. they are out to day on picket.

 

Jule Knapp is working at his trade and is with the Wagon train. I saw him last night. he and Dan are well and tough.

 

This is my last Sheet of paper, envelope or stamp. tell Coleman and Alice when you write to them the reason I have not written is because I had no Materials for writing.

 

I got my new clothes last night and have just put them on. before I got them I was dirty, ragged, lousey and saucy. day before yesterday I slaughtered no more than 150 “Greybacks”, but am rid of them now.

 

when we were at Morganyia I wrote for some stamps, and if they were sent they must be in the Company book box, for I have got 10 letters there that come for me before I got to the Regiment and am in hopes to get them before long as soon as the box comes. tell Coleman and Alice to keep writing and I will answer them as soon as I get the paper and envelopes and stamps.

 

My health is first rate and get plenty to eat; Meat, hardtack and coffee.

 

Ben Dutcher has Skedaddled for parts unknown. he went once and was catched, & he went again and was more fortunate and has not been heard from since.

 

I wrote you a letter a few days ago requesting you to send me 2 lbs. fine cut chewing tobacco by mail, but dont know as you recd. it. I believe I will close and cook some “Grub”. please write soon.

 

                                                                                    Your Loving Brother

                                                                                                Silas Doolittle

please Direct as Before

 

2 PM

                        there has been heavey artillery firing on the right, in the direction of Falling Waters-think there is a battle going on.

                                                                        SD

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