1862) Gravel Ridge
 move up they would leave the sick behind, in many instances to take care of themselves. It seems as though human life was entirely disregarded by those in command. It is estimated that 50 men die daily here, in the army before Corinth. The army is generally encamped in the low dense forests, poor water, and almost daily rains, then a hot scorching sun. To look at the many haggard faces daily (as there are no others scarcely) it is enough to shake the hearts of the strong. The affairs of the country look dark for the Union  Here is an army, as fine material as There is in the world, wasting away through the recklessness and inefficiency of officers. Why in the name of god don't Gen. Hallack order a general advance on Corinth, and let us get where we can breathe pure air. Gen. McClellan's army is rotting in the swamps of the Chicahomany doing nothing, while all recruiting has been stopped, by order of the War Dept; and all men sent North sick
