Franklin County: J. R. Loyd to Cynthia Potter,
September 12, 1864
Summary:
J.R. Loyd of the 16th Pa. Cav. informs Cynthia Potter of
her husband's death.
Cynthia Potter
September 12 1864
Camp 16th Pa. Cav.
Mrs. Potter,
I suppose you have already learned of the death of your husband. I have just been officially notified that Dr. S.M. Potter died at U.S. General Hospital, Point Lookout, Maryland, on the 6thinstant at 1 A.M. of chronic diarrhea. I saw the Dr. at Cavalry Corps Hospital City, Point Virginia a short time before he was removed to Point Lookout. He thought & so did I that it might better his condition to be transferred to Point Lookout Hospital. I made every effort to get him sent to Washington City or Philadelphia but the boats were receiving none but wounded men for those points. The Dr. was a faithful Steward. He stood high in the estimation of every officer & man in the Regiment We miss him very much. His loss we deeply lament not only as a member of the non-commissioned Staff of our regiment, holding the responsible position of Hospital Steward but as a man and friend. The Doctor too had all the elements of a good soldier. He shrank from no danger or hardship when duty called. I have his pipe which I shall take care of and such other effect of his as I can find. His accounts with the Government will be properly arranged as soon as possible, when by application you can secure what may be due him. I think he has back pay due since Feb. 29 1864 at the rate of 430 per month. I can't think he has been paid since then. I know not whether you may make an effort to have his body taken home to Washington County, or not. If you determine on the removal of his remains home I will lend any assistance or furnish any information I can. Had he died here I should have had his body embalmed & sent to you. But I hoped by sending him to Point Lookout that he might be sent to Washington from there & by a change of climate, diet etc. finally recover. But God's ways are not our ways nor his thoughts our thoughts. May His Grace temper this sad affliction to your stricken heart. and may we all be reminded mortality & be prepared as the Dr. gave ample assurance that he was, for the great change that awaits us all, whether at Home or abroad, whether surrounded by friends or among strangers at Home or in the Army. Any inquiries you may wish to make concerning the deceased or his effects or accounts with the goverment address me & I will reply promptly
Yours respectfully
J.R. Loyd
16 Pennsylvania Cavalry
