Augusta County: Jedediah Hotchkiss to Sara A. Hotchkiss, May 26,
1864
Summary:
Hotchkiss describes the movements of the two armies, and reinforcements coming to each, as
they position themselves against one another.
Sara A. Hotchkiss
May 26 th 1864
Hanover Junction
My Dear Dear Wife:
I know you are full of anxiety and are waiting to hear from me -- I
have not written for several days, because I have been too busy, and then
we are cut off from direct communication -- but I think the road is still open by Lynchburg
& I will write, hoping you may get it -- I wish I were at home to cheer you up , but
when I tell you that all is going well I know you will believe it & take heart
accordingly -- though I am always hoping for the best I think I have
solid grounds for my hopes -- The enemy commenced a movement very far to our right, on Saturday
last, & we moved correspondingly -- as the enemy started for Hanover Junction we
marched
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by a parallel road nearly all night & got there Scarcely before him
& blocked up the way to any further advance. Our trains and everything was safely
crossed to the S. side of the North Anna & we have since Monday noon been here in
position -- our line extending nearly parallel to the Va. Central Railroad -- leaving a big bend of the river in our front, into which we have allowed the enemy
to cross -- our line is a very good one & if Grant will advance on it, he will find a
"fiery mass of living valor" even denser than that he encountered at the Ny -- We have received
reinforcements & it is thought the two armies are more nearly equal than ever before --
I do not know but the fortune of war may expose the Valley to invasion, but I trust that the
same kind Providence that has so far shielded it will continue His favor & keep it from
pollution -- the many
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bloody lessons the enemy has learned there ought to teach him
to keep away -- Every available man has been brought from the North to make up the army of
Grant, reserves &c and of course we must concentrate to meet them & the result
will be two immense armies instead of many small ones &,
eventually some decisive victories instead of many fruitless skirmishes. Our army is well
supplied now as several ships loaded with provisions have lately come into our ports -- they
issue 1/2 lb. of bacon to the men in the trenches -- I hope you are getting along tolerably --
though I am full of anxiety knowing you are illy able physically to endure this fiery trial,
but your great heart I trust, & an unfailing
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Providence will sustain you
& enable you to go through these trying times -- I have money but do not think it safe
to send it -- new issue -- but if you need any money call on either of the Mr. Bears to advance
some to you until such time as I can send it -- which I hope will not be long -- for this great
battle cannot be delayed much longer if Grant goes to the Peninsula the road will soon be open
& if we fight here we shall soon end the act & a charge will take place -- I am
in the very best of health -- with all I can do. Did you see the Enquirer of the 26th -- it had in Mr. Hewson's letter to the London Herald -- he makes mention
of me -- I am pleased to hear that the children are doing so well much love & many
blessings for you all -- write -- via Lynchburg --
Your Affectionate husband
Jed. Hotchkiss
