Raynors HCA 2014-11
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/6/2014
A good war-date Union soldier's letter, 6pp. 8vo., written by Pvt. Frederick C. Hale (signed F. C. Hale), Co. F, 118th New York Vols., "Camp near Fort Ethan Allen, [Defenses of Washington], Nov. 2-3, 62", in part: "…my health has been excellent since I came into Virginia…the location & climate are both better than they were in Maryland. The night caps are grand. Hoag glories in his…any amount of them might be disposed of in the company…I like everything here better than I did in Maryland, the water, the air and everything in more like home…we are insight of the dome of the Capitol and the [Washington] monument. I have got quite well acquainted with the surgeon, Dr. [John H.] Mooers…he is a fine man and said to be a excellent physician…the 2d Assistant [Surgeon] I didn't like so well. His name is [Melvin W.] Wilson and is from Saratoga. He was more important & knew more than both the other Drs. He was left left behind to take charge of the sick at the Relay [House]. The hospital steward is a capital fellow. His name is [William T.] Bidwell, son of the Dr. Bidwell of West Plattsburgh…there is another young fellow acting as Hosp. Steward that I like very much. He came from Canada and enlisted. His name is O'Connor…it is pretty difficult matter for a private to get to Wash'n. as no one can get across the Chain Bridge without a pass from Gen'l. Abercrombie…we heard very heavy cannonading yesterday& suspect that has been a fight somewhere. I shouldn't be surprised if we went into Winter quarters…if we do we shall build a 'log house' about three feet high & put the tent over it for a roof…". VG
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