Augusta County: Jedediah Hotchkiss to Sara A. Hotchkiss, June
16, 1864
Summary:
Hotchkiss responds to news of the destruction of Staunton, and awaits news from his wife as
to how she fared.
Sara A. Hotchkiss
June 16th 1864
Charlottesville Va --
My Dear Dear Wife:
How I have longed to hear from you in this time of peril & suffering with which you have been surrounded -- I have hoped, for the best & still hope, though no tidings came from our side of the county. Mrs. McGuffy just got a letter from her sister -- Miss Howard, mailed today telling of the work of destruction by Staunton & they say the country for 10 miles around has been devastated -- I feel that your discretion which rises with the emergency was equal to it & you escaped -- but I am fearful the shock was too much for you -- yet I shall patiently await the arrival of authentic news. Grant is still sliding down towards the James, but sliding away from Richmond at the same time. We have had plenty of skirmishing but very little fighting since the 6 th which we threshed Grant badly --
I have had an attack of dysentery but am getting over it now -- be sure to write soon to Head Quarters 2 nd Corps care of Gen. Early. I hope to see you all soon & to see you well delivered from Yankee visitations -- Love & kisses for you all
Your affectionate husband
Jed. Hotchkiss
