Clapp, George, fl. 1839-1892 to Parents

Last wrote them two weeks ago. Went out on a walk "for our health." Took in 30 blacks, destroyed 2 grist mills, took two loads of bacon, and captured some 50 Rebels while on the walk. The 6th corps was acting as reserves to cover General Custer's raids into the Virginia countryside. Returned from picket duty on Friday, February 26. Took "as little baggage as possible" on the march. On the first night of the march, they headed to James City, a distance of about 20 miles. After another few days of marching, he went and found Sid, who was "under great affliction. His feet were all blisters." Decided to fish out the extra pair of stockings he had and gave them to Sid. Marched out across the river in the afternoon and formed a line of battle. General Custer and his cavalry passed by on their way to the front. Spent a few days camped in reserve, but eventually headed home, covering the 30 miles of distance to camp "with much difficulty." Luckily, the weather was good during the trip. It only rained for one day. The ground acted "like a sponge" and soaked it all up, turning it into mud. There was hardly any wood, so staying warm with fire was impossible, especially in the rain. Kept himself busy by trying to build a big fire and "did not attempt to lay down." One of the most tiring marches he has been on. Would have written as soon as he got home, but "I thought you might not be interested in some of my remarks." The men needed no encouragement to march, for they all desperately wanted to get to the camp. Sid got into the camp about the same time he did, "and his feet are now much better. His feet are so big that he stretched and tore the socks he gave him. Thinks the war will end soon if they keep moving like that. "I feel sorry for the poor Rebs how hungry they must be they have lost two whole wagon loads of bacon." Questions if the relatively small quarry they recovered from the march was worth all the effort. Hopes the next raids will capture more slaves and Confederates than this one. Mother does not know if he wrote to Maria or Helen Clapp, but he has written to both. The paymaster was in the middle of distributing pay when the move to march came in, and they were therefore not paid. Got a letter from Eliza Clark last week. Uncle William has not been to Northampton because he has been very busy with work. Will be able to attend chapel according to his parents' wishes. Will write another letter soon when he feels like writing more. Written at Camp Sedgwick.