| Summary: | From July 1862 to November 1863, Crenshaw Hall was adjutant of the 2nd Battalion, Hilliard's Legion. In the letter he discusses the promotion of his brother, James; a "Bridge disaster" during recent troop movements ("There were about 20 or 30 on the bridge when it fell and of course terrible fright among them"); his opinion of some officers in the regiment; resignations, promotions, and changes in command; troop positions and strength in the area; lack of meat in camp ("men refused to drill two or three days ago because they had nothing but meal to eat") and food in the area ("The country here is completely foraged over...I do hope the enemy will not conquer us by starvation"); disloyal soldiers ("It is a fine time for traitors to gain influence...by taking the part of discontented men"); and the arrival of Clement Vallandigham in the South. He also mentions reconstruction sentiments in the South and expresses his commitment to the Confederacy: "I think there is a large reconstruction party in Ala & Ga especially, and hundreds of down right traitors in both states. There is plenty of evidence - see how the yankee invaders are treated & feasted. It hurts me more than the losing of the whole of Mississippi would...Whether we are to lose every cent and every life in the confederacy I am still in favor of prosecuting the War. And right now I think we ought to turn our guns and bayonets against traitors at home and here in our army...What preparations are Montgomrians [sic] making for the enemy. Will they welcome them with 'bloody hands to hospitable graves' or with wines and cakes &c." A transcription is included.
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