Raynors HCA 2014-11
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/6/2014
War-date Union soldier's letter, 4pp. 8vo., written by Sgt. Gustavus B. Williams (signed G. B. Gustavus), Co. K, 51st Mass. Vols., "about 14 miles from Kingston, N. C., Dec. 13, 1862," in part: "…we started on the road to Newbern just as day broke in the East. We were in light marching order carrying cartridge boxes filled with ammunition…we marched…about fifteen miles…we marched more steadily with frequent short rests…[names several men here]…were unwell but tried to go. They failed…today were encamped acting as a rear guard…the cavalry have scoured the country around and killed and wounded several, some of whom bodies I have seen at houses by the way. We are guarding about twenty prisoners, not badly clad thought in no uniforms, but they were poorly armed. We expect to advance on Goldsboro and…Kingston. There is a fort where a cannonade has been heard and where our advance is…now fighting…the 3rd N. Y. Cavalry were there lost night and captured some prisoners which they brought to the rear and put in our charge…our regiment have lived high…from the secesh farms…their houses which we passed…were burned by their owners…I may see a fierce battle. This force of 20,000 or 30,000men under Gen. Foster means fight and victory…I am ready to do my duty and if I fall can commit my belonging now in peace and quiet…". VG
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