Clapp, George, fl. 1839-1892 to Parents
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC09355.091 Author/Creator: Clapp, George, fl. 1839-1892 Place Written: Berryville, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 15 September 1864 Pagination: 7 p. : Height: 20.1 cm, Width: 12.1 cm Order a Copy
The supply train is here; will be able to send a letter tonight. Is "as well as usual." The weather has been very strange; it has alternated very quickly between sun and rain. Heard a rumor last night that Petersburg was taken but does not know if it was true. Does not have good access to reputable news. Hopes he will receive a letter with the next mail call. Got a letter from Charlie in the last mail, but not one from them. They should tell Charlie he should write as many letters as he likes. Is "quite indifferent" about the upcoming presidential election, but believes that a change in office would be good for all soldiers. "Whoever occupies that chair the coming four years should be more of a military man than Mr. Lincoln." On the other hand, does not believe McClellan is the most competent military man in the country. Does not want to sue for peace with the Confederacy; wants to win the war by fighting as quickly as possible. Criticizes rich men for avoiding the draft by buying substitutes. The rich man does not feel the pain when a substitute gets wounded. "I do wish I might have the extreme pleasure of addressing one of those patriotic meetings in the Town Hall," but is not a very good public speaker.
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