Near Beverly Ford, Va.
August 7, 1863
Dear Father & Mother:
Today finds us sweltering under the scorching rays of an August sun. We are encamped not far from the Rappahannock River and about four miles from Bealton Station on the Orange & Alexandria Railroad. We have but few troops on the South side of the river and they are nearly all Cavalry.
The whole Army is lying between Warrenton and the river waiting (I presume) for the conscripts. Today a division of the 11th corps started via Washington for Charleston S. C. to reinforce [Brigadier General Quincy A.] Gil[l]more. From this circumstance I think that the Army will not move until reinforced by drafted men.
Jo Ross got a letter from Nancy Jane a day or two since saying that Tom Jolly (of Butler Co.) and Abe Domer have been drafted. I had to give a few hearty cheers when I heard of Domer’s being one of “the elect”, but this may not be so. When the draft comes off in Ven[an]go County I want you to send me a paper containing a list of the lucky drawers.
I regret to say that Charlie Mackey has been dismissed by the President. This should have been otherwise. Coop Cochran will get his walking papers soon and he ought to have had them long since I think. I had a note from Frank a day or so since—he weighs only 112 pounds.
We heard tonight that Curtin had been nominated for Governor again—this suits the Penna. Reserves exactly, although all like [John] Covode. [1]
I have heard nothing from Everill since he was wounded and do not know where to write to him. I think Monday and Tuesday were the hottest days I ever felt. Several men were sun struck, but all recovered I believe.
For how long a time did Frank enlist? He did not tell me. Won’t Burgwin beat John S. for Assembly? What is E. W. Davis doing? I saw John B. Maitland a few days since—he said that all the boys are well. I think of nothing more at present that would interest you.
Hoping to hear from both of you I close, Yours affectionately,
J. D. Chadwick
Next posting: August 12, 2013
Jonathan E. Helmreich
College Historian
Allegheny College
Meadville, PA 16335
[1] A Republican member of Congress from Pennsylvania.