| Summary: | From November 1863 through the end of the Civil War, Bolling Hall, Jr., was colonel of the 59th Alabama Infantry regiment. In the letter he reports that his brother, James, is safe (he had been reported dead). He also discusses difficulties he is experiencing with his wound ("I cannot stand as much fatigue as I expected & if in a day or two nothing turns up to give me a chance to rejoin my Brigade I shall come back"); and conditions in camp; recent battles in Tennessee, including the loss at Missionary Ridge; and the resignation of General Bragg: "I heard several say the defeat at Missionary ridge was not as great a calamity as the removal of Genl Bragg & the latter has demoralized the army more than the former. What are we to come to if newspapers & politicians too cowardly themselves to go into danger are thus to break down our best & bravest Generals. Officers tell me they saw the Old General ride in front of our men as they retreated, that is between them & the enemy, while the storm of lead was heaviest & beg them by all they held sacred, reminding them of their homes & friends & for God's sake to stand for only 20 minutes longer & he would promise them victory. And when he found all of no avail they say they believe he courted death that he wanted to die. It is hard on a brave & true patriot to be thus thrown aside." A transcription is included.
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