SUMMARY

The Reverend Russell has intervened on the behalf of John C. Gill from Cleveland with a doctor friend of his in New York. Russell thinks that Gill's chances of getting the job are very good and details the many privileges Gill will have when he gets to New York and his new position. "The Dr. appears to be well pleased with you from my representations," Russell writes to Gill. "And I have no doubt you will see and hear enough of the horribles in one year to last you all your lifetime. He showed me this morning a man's arm that he had taken off yesterday at the armpit, most horribly mangled, that had been caught in a cogwheel, the sight has made me sick to the stomach ever since." Amputation continues to be the therapy of choice by Civil War doctors throughout the course of the conflict. The topic changes quickly to horses. Russell requests that Gill travel by freight train to New York to accompany horses that Russell has, apparently, purchased.

TRANSCRIPTION

New York August 8, 1860
John C. Gill, Esq

Dear Sir- I have deferred(?) answering your letter of the 3rd inst? until I could have another interview with Dr. Wood.

The Dr. has been out of town for the last three days attending Mrs.Mills who has broken her leg in two places by falling down stairs. (Please mention this to Josephine as she is acquainted with the Lady.) I had the good luck this morning to find him at home and showed him your letter; he appeared much pleased to think you preferred a place in his office. To the Hospital he says you need not hurry yourself about coming, you can commence when it will suit your convenience, he also says, that you can visit the Hospital with him daily and that he has a private dissecting room at the hospital which you shall have free access to. The Dr. appears to be well pleased with you from my representations, and I have no doubt you will see and hear enough of the horribles in one year to last you all your lifetime. He showed me this morning a man's arm that he had taken off yesterday at the armpit, most horribly mangled, that had been caught in a cogwheel. The sight has made me sick to the stomach ever since.

Now with vigor to the horses - Billy writes me that he cannot send them on (?) if no one (is) going with them, and that as you are coming on next week you would take them in charge. I know that it will be a great deal of trouble and annoyance, to come as you will have to, by a freight train. I would much prefer to pay a man's time and his expenses than to subject you to the trouble. At the same time, I know they would have a great deal more care and attention with you. However I will leave the matter between you and Billy to settle. Mrs. Russell unites with me in requesting you to make our house your home during your stay in this city.

Hoping I may have the pleasure of a personal interview with you in a few days.

Yours very truly,
(Rev.?) Russell

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