Wilkinson, Frederick W. (fl. 1861-1863) to Amanda Wilkinson
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03523.13.100 Author/Creator: Wilkinson, Frederick W. (fl. 1861-1863) Place Written: Columbia, Kentucky Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 30 May 1863 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope ; 20.5 x 12.7 cm. Order a Copy
Writes to his wife that he has returned to camp with much improved health. He is glad to hear that she is doing so well. He states that he will unfortunately not be able to come home for at least another several weeks. Knows that he is of no great use and longs to return home to her. Writes that it is unfortunate that his fate was to spend two years in the army away from his family. Feels that he has done his duty. Reports that the men of the regiment have returned and bring no news of importance. States there are two kinds of treason. One kind is an "overt act against the government" which he says is like "lighting the torch". The other kind is "talking against it [the government]" which he says is like "fanning the flames.' He states that one cannot exist without the other. Does not think General Ambrose Burnside should be placed in charge of the Union Army again. Writes that their destinies are linked to that of the nation's; if the nation should fall then they shall fall. Writes that his brother, Charles, was killed at the Battle of Fredericksburg while storming the rebel walls in the rear of the city. His mother will visit Amanda this spring.
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