Clapp, George, fl. 1839-1892 to parents

Received their letter yesterday. Marched 15 miles earlier in the week. Was going to start on Monday morning, but it was too rainy then. The march was delayed until Thanksgiving morning. Crossed the Rapidan River at Jacob's Ford and stayed there that night. Was eager to join the fight about 2 miles ahead of them. "As good luck would have it our part of the line was not attacked." Was on the extreme right flank of the army. Advanced to the Rebel lines through very thick forest. His division served as reserves during the battle. Early the next morning, "we were moved out to the front and a part of the 2nd corps were sent out to support us." Formed a battle line and engaged a few Rebel soldiers. "The fight was to be opened in the center by the 3rd corps and it was to be a combined attack along the whole line but the 3rd corps did not get there soon enough, so nothing was done but some picket firing." The regiment only lost two men. His regiment was relieved at about 9:00 that night. "I never suffered with cold half so much as during that campaign." Marching back was a slow and fitful exercise: "we would go 5 or 6 rods and stop. That is the worst kind of march." It was the hardest campaign he has ever been on. Had to stop writing for the night to go on picket watch, but will finish the letter now. Asks for them to send him a box. Assumes it goes to the same address as the letters. Was very happy to receive a letter from mother. Has heard of an offer that anyone who commits to reenlisting in the army can get a 30 day furlough, and was considering the offer. Written at Camp Sedgwick.