Clapp, George, fl. 1839-1892 to Parents

It is tough to realize that it has already been 18 months since he first joined the army. Back then, "we were quite confident of a speedy success." Thought he would be back by the following spring. "Today everything denotes that we may confidently expect no cessation of these hostilities during our term of service." Part of the problem is that they are fighting an enemy "who are bound to hold out to the last man." Believes that many are deserting the Rebel army because they are not as invested in the conflict. Most of them are not rich slaveholders and therefore are not inclined to risk their lives. "Talk of starving them out is both absurd and ridiculous," for they will continue to fight even without food. They will be able to forage and subsist and still fight to the death. If Sherman can feed his army on the march, the Confederates will be able to do the same. Is sure that at least some on the other side believe they are fighting for "right and liberty." Despite the seemingly large amount of Confederates who have deserted, it does not seem to have had a significant impact on the size of their army. "I contend that the South enter into this struggle more earnestly with a more determined feeling to win or gain their object than we do." It seems like the top interest of many men is to avoid being drafted. There are thousands of men who are fit to fight who could help end this war by shear weight of numbers who are simply unwilling to fight. If they came and fought, the older veterans who volunteered for this fight would be much more likely to reenlist. "If they could see the North turn out en masse not a man in the field but would feel it a great privilege to again wear the yoke and would again take the oath for one more term." Believes 9 months men should reenlist. If they think they have done enough for their country, then they should look at the men who have been here nearly 3 years and rejoin the army. He should not worry about his feet; they have recovered fully from the march. Wishes he could give him a good map of the war. General Meade has ordered all women away from the Army of the Potomac, which could mean they are moving soon. Ulysses S. Grant is here on a visit. Assumes there will be a grand review of the army soon. There is a rumor that he will be taking command of the entire army soon. Will write to the "old fellow" soon. Despite what his father believes, he enjoys reading his letters. Will get a pocket map of Virginia to send home as soon as he gets paid. Glad to hear Aunt Electa keeps an eye on where they are. Written at Camp Sedgwick.