Bragg, Braxton, 1817-1876 to Henry J. Hunt
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00925.01 Author/Creator: Bragg, Braxton, 1817-1876 Place Written: Barrancas, [Florida] Type: Autograph letter signed Date: April 21, 1861 Pagination: 3 p. : envelope : clippings ; 25 x 20 cm. Order a Copy
Writes to his old friend and comrade about the turn of events their lives have taken over the last year and expresses is his regret over them being on opposite sides in the war. "How strange are the mutations of life! That we should be in hostile array against each other. A few short months since companions in army, and almost brothers in friendship, it is hard to realize the fact that we are in hostile array against each other." Believes that each of them will have to follow their own conscience but warns that every southerner is "united in the cause." States "we have asked for peace, but shall not decline War. Your president has decided on War. His orders to you are to get you into position and war is inevitable." Ends the letter reaffirming his friendship, but still believes Hunt, along with northern friends of his, are in the wrong.
Hunt remained loyal and later served as Chief of Artillery for the Army of the Potomac. Enclosing four news clippings on secession of Virginia (2) and North Carolina (2). Mentions Fort Sumter. Partly published in Longacre's biography of Henry J. Hunt, pp. 82-3.
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