Augusta County: William Smith Hanger Baylor to Mary
Baylor, August 18, 1862
Summary:
Baylor tells his wife about his struggles with military leadership and his
interactions with Generals Jackson and A.P. Hill.
Mary Baylor
August 18th 1862
Orange Co. Camp Near Clarke's Mountain
My dear wife:
We are no doubt preparing for an important movement - 3 days rations to be put into Haversacks - the enemy are not very far off - but we believe have fallen back - May God give us a great victory & preserve me to you & my child - I am in command of the Brigade - feel my inability for such a responsible position & rely only on heaven for wisdom & strength in the discharge of my Duties -
All of the fellow officers present in the brigade and the Captain of batteries
signed a most complimentary petition to have me made Brigd
& Gen Jackson expressed regret that he did not know the wish of the
Brigade and the he could not sign the papers - he had signed a letter on behalf
of another person - you know I had told
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you before that I had told
Gen Jackson I did not want promotion - Gen Jackson told them to send the
petition to Richmond which they they did - I believe fully that my own conduct
& [unclear: reservation] with Gen Jackson stopped my promotion -
I have no regrets so far as my judgement is concerned, but of course my ambition
is like everybody's. Gen A.P. Hill I understand wrote a complimentary
recommendation.
Say to father that my friends may do as they choose in this matter - To know that
I am considered worth of so high a position is certainly a compliment long to be
cherished. Harman I am satisfied cannot get it.
I had jacques with me yesterday - we are lying quite close together and no doubt will be near together in the fight may a kind Providence protect us both.
I hope you & Lottie both with all at home are well - I do not feel well - but must keep [illeg.] [illeg.] not to be sick again. Love to all -
Your husband,
Wm. S.H. B.
