Irvine, Charles (1756-1819) to Alexander Irvine
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01450.023.06 Author/Creator: Irvine, Charles (1756-1819) Place Written: Kingsbridge, New York Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 20 July 1781 Pagination: 4 p. ; 22.5 x 18.5 cm. Order a Copy
Writes to his brother in Aberdeen, Scotland that he has arrived safely in New York. The boat was frequently chased but out-sailed any danger. Informs that he is now with the 57th regiment and everything is going well. Praises the officers. Mentions meeting General Campbell (possibly John Campbell) who is in New York from Pensacola but is on parole and therefore cannot serve. Comments that Campbell is not held in high esteem among the men. Says Lieutenant Colonel McLeroth has told the men they may be going south to join British General Cornwallis. General Washington and some French troops are a few miles away but are not giving any trouble. Reports that on his first day in the regiment, there was a brief skirmish between some foraging Hessian soldiers and a few rebels. He discusses some mutual friends fighting in the war. Mentions that he should get an appointment to lieutenant soon as he is the first one to purchase a commission. Hopes Mr. Moir advises him on his state of affairs soon. Thinks his pay as a subaltern along with 100 pounds a year should suffice. Regrets the time and money he has wasted. Asks him to write when there is a chance Erroll's Estate will sell as his finances depend on it. Hopes he does not have to remain a subaltern long. Gives love to family and friends. Charles Irvine was a soldier in the British army during the Revolutionary War.
Charles Irvine served in the British Army for fifteen years before going on half pay. But he soon returned, and eventually rose to the rank of major general.
Alexander Irvine was the Eighteenth Laird of Drum. He was involved in a number of financial squabbles during his early life.
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