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Col. Chamberlain July 29 1863

I regret to add that our loss at Gettysburg has reduced the Regt. below the minimum so that Hospital Steward Baker commissioned as asst. surgeon cannot be mustered in until the drafted men join us; & until that time there can be no legal vacancy of Hospital Steward. Rev. [?] Brown therefore will do well to wait till the drafted men come when he can be mustered in at once.

We are expecting to cross the Rappahannock tomorrow. The 20th gained a great reputation in the army for its conduct at Gettysburg.

C.