Stafford Court House V^a

May 7^th 1863—

 

Dear Father,

                        The army has fallen back to its old position, and we are in our old camp. The plain story is, that the Army of the Potomac is whipped—That is to say—we have not gained an inch from our former status, and lost 13000 or 14000 men in killed wounded & missing. I have only time this morning to tell you that I am back safe, famished, tired, and (inter nos) with the reputation of having done my duty in the fight of Sunday. My whole company, instead of following the Regiment in their flight, staid with me, at my command, and were all taken prisoners. Instead of submitting, we fought our way out and captured our captors. I only had two killed outright. A great many were wounded and taken prisoners, but we who are safe, do not regret that they remained at their post, and fell bravely. I am 37 men out—killed wounded & missing. I will write at length soon. Now, I must get something to eat. Yours despondingly           Charlie—

 

[overleaf]

 

Charley—

May 7/63

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