Page:Southern Historical Society Papers volume 04.djvu/153

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SOUTHERN HISTORICAL SOCIETY PAPERS.



Vol. IV.
Richmond, Va., October, 1877.
No. 4.


Leading Confederates on the Battle of Gettysburg.

[CONTINUED FROM OUR SEPTEMBER NO.]

The papers which we have been publishing on the battle of Gettysburg have attracted great attention and excited wide interest. We hope to add a number of others from distinguished soldiers who were in position to know what occurred, and who have promised to send us their views on the questions propounded by our distinguished foreign critic.

In response to our request for a paper from General John B. Hood he sends us a copy of the following letter to General Longstreet. In a note to the Secretary accompanying this letter General Hood says: "It does not cover all the points upon which you desire information, but may prove of interest." We feel sure that our readers will be glad to have the statement of this gallant and accomplished soldier.

Letter from General John B. Hood.

New Orleans, La., June 28th, 1875.

General James Longstreet:

General—I have not responded earlier to your letter of April 5th, by reason of pressure of business, which rendered it difficult for me to give due attention to the subject in regard to which you have desired information.

You are correct in your assumption, that I failed to make a report of the operations of my division around Suffolk, Va., and of its action in the battle of Gettysburg, in consequence of a