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Republican patriot I apprehend the incentive to fight is the double one of the Union [underlined] & freedom [underlined] -- freedom to the North [underlined] from a terrible political thraldom --and, may we not hope, freedom to the South [underlined] in some as yet unknown way, in Gods good prov- idence, from that terrible incubus which she hugs & groans & groans & hugs until she has become completely mad -- I wish to heaven I could go and fight in this cause -- but disabled as I am I cannot; yet I have sent a couple of representatives, nephews, of whom I am guardian, 18 & 20, athletic, promising young men, of good morals -- and know [underlined] what [underlined] they [underlined] are [underlined] fighting [underlined] for [underlined] --they are in the 2d Regiment.

In this double [underlined] fight, my friend Mr. Hoskins would be glad to enlist -- and if it is in your power to give him a place in the army I have no doubt he would fill it with faithfulness & honor.

Very respectfully yours E. G. Brett