Raynors HCA 2015-08
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/27/2015
War-date Union soldier's letter, 5pp. 8vo., written by Corp. Marquis L. Holt (signed M. L. Holt), Co. E, 3rd New Hampshire Vols., Hilton Head, South Carolina, Jan. 30, 1863, to his brother Edward B. Holt who enlisted in December 1863 in the 3rd New Hampshire, in part: "…I am glad that you take so much interest in the things that pertain to your country's welfare. I would be pleased to have you with me at this time but as you are so youngI think it best for you to remain at home for the present. Wait a few years brother and then if this war should last it will be time…you wanted to know the positions of the officers in the company…I am afraid that you will not understand it…the first is the captain who commands the company. His position is any place where he thinks best while drilling…the next is the first and second lieutenants. The first lieutenant is three paces in the rear of the company covering the second file from the left. The second lieutenant is three paces in the rear covering the second file from the right…the next comes the 5 sergeants. One on the right and one on the left of the company and the other three in the rear with the lieutenants…next comes the 8 corporals…I will draw a plan of the company in line of battle [included]…we had the opportunity of seeing the Ironsides leave the harbor in fighting trim this morning. She is a noble looking boat…they had a fight up to the Charleston blockade yesterday and the iron ram 2 or 3 of our gun boats…we heard heavy firing in that direction all day yesterday. There is a fleet of transports coming in loaded with troops 15 or 20 have already arrived…there is some of the monitors down this way…she looked curious for a thing of war. Most all that we could see was her turret and smoke stack…to see her in action…must be a curious sight…". Both VG.
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