Letter of condolence written by D. J. Downing to Mrs. D. Cady of Rome, New York, from Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, August 23, 1863
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GettysburgPa. (Pennsylvania) (Gettysburg, Pennsylvania)
August 23’ 1863Mrs D. Cady (Cady, Daniel (Mrs., Fidelia W. Palmer))
Dear Madam
I received
yours of the 16’ a few days since
I would have written sooner, but
I had heard there was a diary of
Rush (Cady, Rush Palmer (Lieutenant)) ’s at Ziegler (Ziegler) ’s (the first house we
stayed in) and I had sent up to
bring it to me, they mislaid it and
it was not until last night I
received it. I am very happy
that it is recovered knowing and
fully appreciating the interest it
will have for yourself and family.
I have thought of keeping it until
I could go to Rome (Rome, Oneida County, New York)
but I fear it
would be too long and so send it
at once. Captain Palmer (Palmer, Gustavus M.
(Captain)) was here
and gave me Rush (Cady, Rush Palmer (Lieutenant)) ’s picture and
a printed account of his funeral.
I was glad to see a recognition
of his services as a Patriot Soldier in
the military honors of his soldier grave.
When years roll on and this rebellion
is a thing of the past there are many
who will remember and cherish the
memory of him who sacrificed all
even his life for the benefit of his
fellow men. Captain Palmer (Palmer (Captain)) left
here nearly two weeks since and
is I believe now in Washington (Washington, District of Columbia) he
was in good health and expected
to remain there until he was ordered
to he (the) invalid Corps.
I am not very much advanced
yet, for some time after you left
here I got on very well and at
one time fixed a day for my
departure. When that day arrived
I was not as well and since then
I have not improved any. The
Doctors here say they do not under-
stand what is the matter with the leg and can only recommend
patience, which is now nearly exhausted. I have
determined to go on to NY (New York) (New York) and run the risk, to
get good surgical treatment, if I do not improve in a
short time. My cousin has left about a week since
I am now alone, which contributes to depress my spirits,
however I am keeping up my courage and hope to see
my friends sometime.
I will keep Rush (Cady, Rush Palmer (Lieutenant)) ’s canteen until I can send
it safely or bring it myself. My respect to Mr Cady (Cady, Daniel )
and hoping your trust in God will support you under your
great sacrifice.
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