William P. Allcot, Camp Tennallytown, Washington D.C., to his brother, Edmond, New York, New York, 1862 February 21

Abstract

Inquires about the health of his mother and the health of the entire family; states belief that the war will be over shortly, and that Europe will not aid the Confederacy; describes the welcoming of Colonel Michael Corcoran after his release by the Confederates; the manpower price the Confederacy is paying for the war; General Sterling Price taken with the remnant of his army; General Simon Bolivar Buckay, sic Buchner, to be tried for treason in the wake of the capture of Fort Donelson; Jefferson Davis must see how the Confederacy is collapsing; laments that the Confederate leaders exist; hopes for the successful conduct of the wedding of his sister, Louise; wishes the family well and urges them to write him. Letter written on letterhead showing the interior of Fort Welles, later Fort Walker, Hilton Head, S.C., including buildings, tents, canon, canal, and Union soldiers marching and on guard duty. 4 pages. Autographed letter signed.