War-dated ALS signed “A. J. Hull,” four pages on two adjoining sheets, 11 x 17, April 10, 1863. Hull writes to his sister, in part: “The Rebels captured a train of [the] corps yesterday some four miles from here. They burned the cars and took the passengers prisoners. They also took our mail, but I didn’t have anything in the mail as good luck would have it. The enemy took our brigade Post Master. There were also many officers taken, but none from our Regiment. The news has just come in that two more trains were taken last night out beyond Nashville. I have not heard the particulars as yet, but perhaps I will get the particulars before I finish this letter. We heard heavy firing yesterday and the day before off southeast of us, but have not got the particulars as yet, only we heard that General Stedman was killed. We don’t credit the report. They have sent troops in pursuit of the Rebels that captured the train near here yesterday. We have not heard from them since they went out. We shall probably hear the result today or tomorrow. The Rebels are playing smash lately, but they will get sick of burning trains before long or I will miss my guess. They talk of burning every house within ten miles of the railroad, that is our men talk of doing it, and if our troops commence such a game as that I think the Rebels will be glad to stop burning trains. It looks hard to burn houses over women and children’s heads, but when anything becomes a military duty or necessity you know it is right to do it…I don’t know but I am getting hard hearted, but I can’t help it. I am beginning to feel like fighting. I don’t know as I could do anything very desperate, but I could mock them that could. I am willing to suffer anything and everything in the defense of our country.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, some light toning, some ink blots and soiling to the text, and a few light areas of separation. Desperate—and determined—words, straight from the front lines of the country’s bloodiest war. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Hull’s hand. RRAuction COA.
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