Franklin County: Bob Taggart to Captain John
Taggart, October 11, 1862
Summary:
Taggart discusses military policies concerning promotions of officers like
himself. Also talks about soldiers' motives for fighting in the war.
Captain John Taggart, 9th Penn. Reserve Infantry
October 11th 1862
Camp near Sharpsburg Md.
Dear John
Yours of the [illeg.] came to hand last night and afforded me the gratifying intelligence that you were all well. Sam was over a short time yesterday afternoon. He received a letter the night before from you. I was over at the Camp of the 123d on Thursday evening, and there met Cas. Carpenter, who like all persons in citizens clothes looked odd, but well enough. Yesterday morning Jimmy Sutherland and Sol. [unclear: Schoyer ] were in camp. They represent things pretty [illeg.] Pittsburgh. Capt. Cushbertson of our Reg. returned for duty yesterday also Dr. Sowen of Co A. The former was taken prisoner at the Peninsula, and the latter at Bull Run. They are both perfectly satisfied with trip to Richmond. The recent actions left some more vacancies in our Reg but only one above the position I now occupy. That one a Captaincy, I might have had, but would not accept it because I thought it would be injustice to an officer of the company whose bravery and competency are beyond doubt; and in whom all the members of the company have the utmost confidence but being so unfortunate as to get wounded on the Peninsula he has been absent ever since and the boys were going to over-look what I considered his just claim.
You make enquiry about Lieut Pierce. I cannot say how he is. When he left the Regiment at
Upton's Hill to go to Washington he was as hearty-looking as any man in the
Regiment, and had a good appetite. More than that there was no one, if he left,
to take charge of the Company, but a wounded Sergeant [illeg.] and [deleted: ] is very much blamed for leaving. There are times
[page ]
when an
officer might not be blamed for "playing off" a little, but the purpose of
having a "good time" but I must say, in the case herein mentioned, had I been in
[illeg.] place I would have gone on Crutches rather than Sergt
[illeg.] should have gone with the Company. But in this war some men
fight on principle others for money. the past three or
four months have developed and exposed the true motives of such. [deleted: ] tendered his resignation. Resignations are not now
accepted unless accompanied by a Surgeon's certificate, or a certificate from
commanding officer of Regiment to the effect that the service would be benefitted by the acceptance
of said Resignation. I have not the last doubt but [illeg.]
will be accepted.
Mr. Devore must have got with the 9th P.V., and not the 9th P.R.V. Regt., two separate and distinct organizations. The position of Ordinance Sergeant will just suit Jim. He can ride, either on horse or on wagon, if so minded, and is not necessarily exposed to fire. We have been looking for Genl Jackson back and would be glad to hear of his return. I am not with the company but still act Adjt, and will probably continue doing so. My love to all the folks, Mary & Charley. Respects to enquiring friends. And believe me
Your Affect Brother
Bob
P.S. We have just heard of [illeg.] being in Chambersburg. Just take the "Reserves" up there will you, and you'll hear of some of the biggest work yet done in the army. Bob
