Elmer, Ebenezer, 1752-1843 to Hannah Seeley
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01450.165.01 Author/Creator: Elmer, Ebenezer, 1752-1843 Place Written: Middlebrook, New Jersey Type: Autograph letter signed Date: June 20, 1777 Pagination: 2 p. : address : docket ; Height: 21 cm, Width: 16.5 cm Order a Copy
Discusses army life. Says he enjoys writing her in his spare time. Tells her that "The movements of a rambling army...exposed to the dangers of leaded weapons...slaughter & bloodshed affor nothing but maloncholy scenes...too shocking for matter o communication to ladies." If she really desires details she should ask Mr. Machey. Army life is hard and the only reason "that soldiers themselves are anyways pleased with the life" is "owing to the animating drum and fife." He himself "can see or feel but little solid satisfaction in this way of life but that of serving my country." He has heard rumors that they are engaged to be married to each other. Says he would marry her if he could return home, and if she loved him as much as he loves her, but must dispel these ideas for the time being. Letter written at "Camp Middlebrook," a town now called Bound Brook. Signed "Eben Elmer"
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