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Regiment: 1st U.S. Volunteers Sharpshooters
Battles Mentioned:
Historical Figures:
Camp Near Stoneman Station
June 3d 1863
My Own Mary.
I have not
much to write but it has been
several days since I have done so.
In that time I have received two
from you. And so you and Annie
must needs quarrel about so small
a matter. her Captain may be the
best of “his race.” but ‘twould be
one of the strangest freaks of nature
should he. =on so short an acquaintance=
be so deeply infatuated as to forget
all others and cherish her memory,
dearer than those with whom he must
have been more intimate. She
doubtless loves him better now than
she will in the years which are to come
I have known very many Army
friendships which would not bear
the test of a peaceful quieter life
Dont fancy I am croaking if you
could feel for one moment the loath=
=ing and disgust of the character of
a soldier = with = if you will = the excep=
=tion of his bravery and daring = which
that same character exhibited in civil
life would inspire you with. Not
all the strong love I am sure you
have for me. would allow you to
love that person longer.
But this is nonsense
why do I write thus, E. Baxter
writes me lately from Murfreesboro
he is highly flattering. thinks I am
“lucky.” which means he thinks himself
the opposite. Well I’ll tell you
the heighth of my ambition. And
that is to be a private in the “Home
Guards.”
May Swensen also write me
a few lines. She considers herself alone
almost without friends. And like a
poor lone dove thats lost its mate. she
knows not whether to turn,
Three men are to be shot for
desertion here on Friday next. I have
looked on death in so many
[ ? ]
I think I shall see the execution.
twelve paces. about forty feet with
twelve loaded muskets at ones head
is of itself a terror that would make
a maniac of thousands.
With love and one kiss
Ever Yours
Gardner
[Includes detached postage stamp]
[On Envelope:]
Miss Mary Baxter
Grand Rapids
Box 450
Michigan
