The following letter was written by Henley Wingfield J. Hamner, 2nd Lt, Co. F, 38th AL Vol. Inf. CSA, to Cornelia on
May 31,1864, informing her of her husband's death.
Mrs. Cole
I/i have the pain full task to inform you that your loving husband is no more. He was wounded at the Battle of New Hope Church and got as far as the Medical Coledge Hospital Atlanta Georgia. I/i received the notice just now and I/i will drop you this note. He received his wound on the night of the 27 of this month and deceased the 29. I/i can but drop a simpathising tear with you in your loss hoping it is his gain. The Surgeon in Charge name is J. C. King Medical Coledge Hospital Atlanta Georgia. He said he had $200.00 in gold and $150,00 in Confederate money & I/i have wrighten him also Lt. Cole’s adress Sheffield P.O. Fayette Co Ala. Mrs. C. A. Cole, you will excuse this as I/i am wrighting you this under the fire of the enemy. This fight has been going on some 25 days and no telling when it will close. You had better send after that money right off.
Yours with much respect in simpathy
H. W. J. Hamner
Lt. Co. F 38th Ala Reg’t
Written on the back of the letter: Tell my wife this leaves me well. This may be the like for me that some of my friends may have to send to her of me in a few days for we are exposed heare to Death every hour.