Raynor HCA 2014-04
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/1/2014
A great war-date Confederate staff officer's letter, 4pp. 8vo., written by Capt. J. Hanson Thomas as aide de camp to Gen. Loring, "Hd. Qrs. Loring's Div., Atlanta, Geo., Aug. 27, 64" to his mother, in part: "As this is the first grand movement that has occurred in our department for the past 30 days it is worth…to dwell on it…the enemy since day before yesterday have been altering their lines and vacating positions that we supposed to be impregnable; consequently much cannonading on our part and advancing of skirmishers to ascertain their whereabouts and endeavor to develop their intentions. They commenced to withdraw on their right and also news reached as the same time that they had disappeared on the other wing, tho' in our front…they were in force. These two movements have somewhat mystified us all. Last night they drew in their lines on the right centre, still holding a strong position on the left centre: probably it is understood at Genl. Hood's Hd. Qrs., but no one else. It is one of three things, either to mass their army and attack a point; straight in and contract their line, or retreat across the Chattahoochie river…I took an early breakfast and with several men crossed their old works and followed the retreating column t within one mile of the river, but then, it appeared they were still in some force tho' continuing the march. I captured eight Yanks but could gain very little information from them. It is uncertain yet, what Sherman will do and from conflicting report and rumors…will not venture to prognostic all. God grant that it is the commencement of a long retrograde move…I can see no reason to justify such a supposition. I am little proud of what I have done today and feel well satisfied…for having done my duty. With one other person to capture 5 men and only a few hundred ids from their main commd. is something not frequently done except by the Cavalry…this paper was given me by one of my prisoners…for the kind manner I treated him…". The original transmittal cover is included. Near fine
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