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Walt Whitman to George Washington Whitman, 6 December 1863

Dear brother,1

I sent you a letter four days ago that Andrew was gone at last, poor fellow. I have written to Han. I did not go on to Andrew's funeral, (I suppose it was yesterday)—but I am very very sorry now that I did not stay while I was home—I am well—Write when you can—

Walt

Notes

  • 1. This note to George was written on the verso of Jeff's letter of December 3, 1863: "I have just telegraphed to you that Andrew was dead. Poor boy, he died much easier than one would have supposed. I do hope to God you will come on. I have been with him, Mary, Mother, Mat and I, almost all the time since you left. Mary and I watched last night. He has been dying ever since Wednesday morning—fully 24 hours—Poor Nancy, she takes it woful hard. Mary has acted like the best of Women. It is very affecting to see Nancy and the children. Mattie did everything that she possibly could. She watched with us till near 3 o'clock this morning. Andrew was very desirous of having us all around him when he died. The poor boy seemed to think that that would take nearly all the horror of it away." [back]
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