Click here for this soldier’s biography:
https://micivilwar.com/authors/wight-edwin-b/
Regiment: 24th Michigan Infantry
Battles Mentioned:
Historical Figures:
Detroit August 7, 1863
Dear Captain,
I received your letter and accompanying
package in due season and I enclose here with
an X Greenback of which please
appropriate 5. for the straps with my thanks
for your trouble in procuring them and give the
other 5 to my Contraband (Henry).
When the Chaplain arrives he will be able
to give him more. I am glad that everything is
progressing so well with the Regt. & that the
boys are keeping in such good spirits.
The latest news seemed to indicate no
fighting “imminent”. Though we hardly know
what a day may bring forth in the region of the
famous Rappahannock.
Of myself I have no good news to write –
at least nothing that is very encouraging to
myself.
The Dr. after an extended examination
for my eye holds out no hope of my ever
regaining the sight there of- & I must now seek
to insure up the remaining one to perform
“double duty.” This will be clear I fear- for I
have not been very well since the Col. left. The
weather & confinement have taken the life out
of me & any little excursion uses me up
completely.
I keep close in the house during the day.
I probably will be obliged to for several weeks
to come.
The only airing I get is a short drive or
walk after nightfall. The strong daylight
reflected from pavement, walk & buildings is
an experiment that I do not yet dare to try.
I would be glad to hear from you soon &
be sure & tell Bill Rumsey that I expect that he
will get my valise to Washington & there
express it – thus insuring it against any danger
from Mosby’s gang.
With regards to the Col. & other officers
I am, yours E. B. Wight
