From Capt. James H. Stuart diary: July 11th 1862 – Staid with Capt. R. E. Wilbourn, my old classmate and friend. Met Dan P. Bestor & Edward Stuart who had come on to join my “Signal Corp”. James brother, Edward Stuart had joined the 18th Miss. Infantry in June 1862 when he was only 15 years old. James was able to get Edward transferred to his Signal Corp in July. James brother, Oscar E. Stuart of the 18th Miss. had encouraged Edward to join the 18th Miss. Below is a transcription of a letter written to his sister in March 1862 by Sgt. Maj Oscar E. Stuart concerning Edwards joining the 18th Miss. Hdqrs., 18th Miss Regt. Leesburg Va, Mar 6th 1862 Dear Sister, Excuse this sheet, I have no time for choice. Before 9 Oclock tomorrow, Leesburg, the scene of our former triumph, as well as toils and sufferings,will have been evacuated, and turned over to the tender mercies of a detestable foe. There is no harm in telling you this as it will be known through the papers before this reaches you. I hate to give it up; there are a great many tories here, but many loyal citizens also, among whom I have contracted some strong friendships. I am glad to hear that Pa has enlisted (from your letter received today). When old men enlist, there is some possibility of the young vagabonds to respond. I hope Uncle Wm. will let Edward join Burt Rifles-- he is young, it is true but his country has a claim on him and is in need of him. If he is killed, it were better far than living under a Northern despot. I would write to him in person concerning this but lack of time (12:00 pm). Offer him my excuse and show him this. It would be better for him to join the Burts than Pas company as they would be younger ,& besides I want him with me. Dont read this part out if he declines to let him come, for it would only raise false hopes in his bosom -- Direct letters to Manassas until further advised. I dont know where we will go. The enclosed is from Miss Corris. She is a noble girl & has been a true sister to me -- write and thank her for it. --- Uncle Wm. must not enlist, he has 2 representatives in the field, let him take care of the family, we will do his & our share of fighting -- love to all -- write soon -- I am very tired. Yr. loving brother, O.E. Stuart.
Posted on: Fri, 11 Jul 2014 16:47:11 +0000
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