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From DigitalMaine Transcription Project
Hope Jan'y 1st 1863
Dear Sir
At the instance of Binj(??) Athearn I write to inquire if the death of [underscored] Robert T. Athearn of Co. E. Second Reg't of Maine Volunteers has been reported to you. The last accounts he can get of him, is that he was wounded at the Battle of Gaines Mills on the 27 June 1862 in the arm above the elbow, that he was seen on the field soon after the Battle by a comrade who tied a handkerchief over his wound and left him. Whether he was taken prisoner or died is not known. If you have the subject and will communicate it to me, you would much oblige me and his parents.
Yours truly Henry Hobbs
Gen. J.L. Hodsdon Adjt. General Maine
Paroled prisoner, in hospital,