6th South Carolina Officer Writes to the Colonel of the 7th South Carolina

This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/28/2005

Autograph Letter Signed, "Lewis Jones", later a Captain, Co. "B" of the 6th South Carolina Cavalry, 3p. quarto, Edgefield Court House, August 11, 1861, addressed to Colonel Thomas Bacon of the 7th South Carolina at Manassas Junction, Virginia. With good content pertaining to horses, the raising of troops, and more, in part: "...I was thrown from a horse and pretty badly bruised up, so as to render me unfit for any business for several days...I have heard of no racing to come off this winter, nor do I suppose there will be any until the war is over...In regard to money matters, the like you have never seen before in Edgefield, there has been a total suspension in all matters of business, except the agricultural even the offices of Court so far as business is concerned had almost as well be closed...I would be well pleased if it was closed, it would be a relief to me to be able to get away from this dull place and got to some other where I could mingle with others of my friends and countrymen in defense of my country. Three more companies are now organized and some two or three more in course of organization from the districts, old Edgefield has at least done well in this matter. I think that the next regiment organised will elect my brother James, Colonel, as he has indicated that he will accept if elected. [James Lewis was Colonel of the 14th South Carolina] I have heard of the difficulties and troubles that you have had with some of your command, and have no doubt that you have been badly treated, and have so expressed myself. In my humble opinion, the best treatment for such cases situated as you are is stern and lofty contempt, never allowing the parties to approach within a stones throw of you, except under the strictest rule of official duty. I knew nothing of this mater until after you left for Virginia, even at the time I was at camp Butler I had heard noting of it. Well after all what better could you expect 'blood will tell'....There is a report in circulation here now, that you had fought a duel and that you were killed...give my love to all my friends, for I have many in the Regmt..." Light folds, else VG to Fine.

Click on a thumbnail above to display a larger image below
Hold down the mouse button and slide side to side to see more thumbnails(if available).