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� their courage helped to make a "field of Honor" + I regret to lose the services of 102 who were wounded there. Besides this, in our other fights we had a loss of three killed + sixteen wounded or missing. I fear I have written too freely but this is not an "official" letter + I know you desire to be informed reliably of the service render-ed by your Regiments.

I am sorry to say that Lieut. Col. Gilmore was obliged to leave us on our march through Maryland, + is now in Baltimore not yet fit for duty. We all suffered for want of medical attendance ["medical attendance" underlined]. Our toilsome + hurried marched broke down a great many, + I had to be Sur-geon + father as well as Colonel, to such an extent that I fell sick myself + came near dying, but was providentially able to lead my gallant fellows into the fight. The surgeons recent-ly appointed have reported, + we are highly gratified with their appearance.

I should be glad to have Rev. Dr. Brown whom you recommended with Hon J. J. Perry [?Porters?], appointed Hospital Steward, ordered to report at once. I very much need a field officer [underlined]. I had to go through the fight alone. Is there any objection to follow the suggestion of Col. Ames in the appointment of Major? I should heartily endorse that.

very Respectfully your obdt. Servt. + friend, J. L. Chamberlain, Col. 20th

[on the side] Col Chamberlain 20th Regt July 21st 1863

77-016