Raynors 2012-09
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/27/2012
A rare war-date Union officer's letter, 3pp. 8vo., written by Lt. John H. Black, Co. G, 12th Penn. Cavalry [WIA Hamilton, Va., Mar. 21, 1865], on a rare reprieve given to a group of deserters moments before being executed, in part: "…on Friday last I went to the Ferry to witness the execution of two soldiers, tried and sentenced to be shot to death for desertion. They were brought out according to order, under the tune of the death march, and after the ministers prayed with them for a half hour they kneeled by the black coffins and prayed themselves, then arose and bid each other goodbye. After that their hands were tied behind their backs - the sentence of death read to them - then they took their seats on the foot of the coffin, each facing 10 men who were armed ready to receive the word to fire-At this critical moment in came a fleet horsemen burying a dispatch, on opening and reading it found to be a reprieve - the General then rode forward and informed the boys that they were pardoned - you had better think they were pleased. They walked toward each other and shook hands again with joy. They were not the only ones that rejoiced, everyone present was pleased. They marched from there with lighter hearts then they came with. I don't think they will ever desert again while they live. There were about 3,000 present, soldiers & citizens. VG
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