Raynor HCA 2014-01
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/30/2014
A good war-date Union officer's letter, 8pp. 8vo., written by 1st Lt. Maurice Leyden, [POW Darbytown Road, Va., 10/07/64, confined Libby Prison & Salisbury, N. C.], Co. B, 3rd New York Cavalry, "in the field near Jones Landing, Va., July 31, 1864", in part: "…in accordance with orders we started…on the night of the 21st inst. We did not have a very long raid this time but four or five days continual skirmishing…Gen's Hancock and Sheridan crossed the James at this place where they met the enemy in force. We did not go further than Malvern Hill-Little Macs graveyard…our loss will not be large. Gen. Greig's cavalry suffered more than any other…men and horses were very much fatigued…I have one letter to answer…I should prefer to have some one else do for me and that is is to the father of Lt. Bailey. I know not what to say at this time…I told them there was a possibility that he was only taken prisoner but there is no hope now. I have no doubt as to his fate. I feel sorry for his mother and sister…I have just heard from Gen. Kautz. He is at Ream's Station where we had a fight not long ago…Gen. Burnside has been fighting [at the Crater] since yesterday. I can hear the roar of artillery while I write…it is impossible for an officer to resign in this department where the Comdg Gen sets all orders from the President at naught…Lt. Robinson was dishonorably dismissed from the service yesterday by the 'Beast' for presuming to address a letter to the Sec of War without sending it through his head qrs…P. S. 10 o'clock P. M. Since…I had gone to bed I received orders to report to Head Quarters immediately…I found that I was detailed to take command of fit men, four from each company, and one 2nd Lt and proceed…to Bachelor Creek where I am to remain on picket and scouting duty for at least fifteen days… ". The original stamped transmittal cover is included. Near fine.
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