Raynors HCA 2016-10
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/21/2016
War-date Union officer's letter, 6 1/2pp. 8vo., written by Lt. William M. Thurston, Battery F (Ricketts), 1st Pennsylvania Light Artillery, "Camp Hancock," [Va.], Apr. 20, 1864, in part: "…the long looked for review came off today…the line was formed on a level plain near the deserted village of Stevensburg…awaiting the arrival of the hero [Grant] of the South West, but to our disappointment he did not come…we were compelled to look upon Maj. Gen. Hancock as our reviewing officer. No doubt he is as good as Grant, but we have seen him often and would like to see someone more noted in the history of the present war. The troops made a splendid display show efficient in drill and discipline the American soldier can become…it was altogether magnificent…reflecting great credit upon both officers and men…on Monday next there will be a man executed at Genl. Webb's head quarters. The gallows are erected near our camp…will be launched into the eternal world. The 2nd Corps will be drawn up in line to witness the heart rendering scene. I would not go, but I must take out my men. I hope something will happen to save the poor vile wretch…why he was sentenced to be executed. Last fall when the army was encamped near a little village called Morrisville he was sent to guard the humble little cot[tage] of a poor old woman whose tottering frame had borne her near the tomb. Taking advantage of the darkness of night he caught her and ravished her person in the most disgraceful manner, therefore I cannot avoid calling him vile and…deserving the punishment…the president has approved of the sentence and I cannot see one gleam of hope to lengthen the period of his existence in this world…W. Thurston, Battery F, 1st Pa. Artillery, 2nd Corps…". A bit light, else VG
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