p.

Willie Stevens to Rachel Stevens / Mary Putnam
Head Quarters ?/? 6th Corps
June 9^th 1864

Dear Mother,

As I am once more in my old position and have leisure I will improve it. I came here about two
hours since am feeling first rate mentally but have some I hope slight bodily aches. Do not be
alarmed in the least about me. It is not dangerous only serious and painful. My third days duty
in the Camp favored me with a Minnie ball through the fleshy part of the thigh in front and just
below the groin and one inch outside the main artery of the leg. The old position there refers
to my back where I lay comfortably. I was able to walk off the field hope soon to be able to
return there I expect to go to the landing tomorrow and to Washington soon. May be in VT in
a week expect to be. Love to all do not be alarmed. I am well and was doing my duty. Thy
loving Son.
WB Stevens

Sister Mary
Please read this and use thy own good judgement regarding Mother. In haste and truly,
WB Stevens

P.S. It is my painful duty to inform you that the wound of your Son became gangrenous a few
hours ago in consequence of which he died. His body will be turned over to Surgeon Bently
U.S.A. at Alexandria with his effects and by applying to him you can receive them. He was
cheerful until within an hour of his death. Enclosed please find list of his effects.

Very Respectfully your Obd. Servt.
Henry James
Surgeon, USA
In charge

U.S. Transport
State of Maine
Washington D.C.
June 11, 1864 9 PM

______________

Surgeon E. Bentley USA
3^rd Division Hospital
Alexandria, VA

His grave is so marked that there is a not a possibility of mistake.
His body cannot be disinterred until cold weather. If you will then write me I will inform you
the best way to receive it.

Truly Yours
R. Gage
Hospital Chaplin