55th New York Infantry Regiment's Civil War Newspaper Clippings

HE FIFTY-FIFTH REGIMENT N. Y. S. V. (Gardes Lafayette) IN THE ACTION OF May 31.
LETTER FROM A PARTICIPANT IN THE BATTLE. 
HEADQUARTERS FIFTY-FIFTH REGIMENT N. Y. S. M., GARDES LAFAYETTE, BEFORE RICHMOND, June 1, 1862.
The Regiment Goes into Action Under Command of Its Lieutenant Colonel—Coolness and Bravery of the Officers and Men in Action—Official Report of Lieut. Colonel Thourot—The Fifty-fifth Saves a Battery—List of Killed and Wounded in the Regiment, &c.

I presume that by this time your readers and yourself are aware that the Fifty-fifth has again confronted the foe, and, as the regiment is so well known in the city, it is but justice that its numerous friends should know how nobly it acquitted itself, and how fully it justified the confidence reposed in it. In consequence of the continued sickness of Colonel de Trobriand (who, we are happy to hear, is soon expected to resume his command), the regiment was led by Lieut. Col. Thourot, whose cool courage and determined bravery excited the admiration of all, not only of our own men, but of the whole division. Major Jehl, acting as Lieut-Colonel (whose horse was wounded), and Captain Four, as Major, together with Adjutant Cuvillier (who was wounded severely), also cheered on the men by their example, and proved themselves brave and efficient officers. Dr. Petard, while zealously attending to his duties, under the enemy's fire, had his horse wounded. The following report of Lieut. Colonel Thourot to General
Peck will, I think, prove as explicit as any words of mine, and I therefore give it in extenso:—
HEADQUARTERS, FIFTY-FIFTH REGIMENT N. Y. S. M.
June 1, 1862.
Brigadier General Peck:—
GENRAL:—At half-past one o'clock yesterday the regiment was called out under arms, formed in line of battle and posted, by your order, in advance of our camp. Some minutes after, General Keyes, passing in front of the regiment, said that he designed it to go and save a battery placed in the first line, and which the regiments ahead were no longer able to support.
General Keyes, in again passing the regiment, spoke a few words, saying that he counted upon the "red caps," when the Fifty-fifth, led by General Naglee, charged bayonets upon the enemy at "double quick", in magnificent style, and, after having taken the position assigned to it, maintained it alone, and without any support, under so murderous a fire that in a few moments we had about fifty men hors de combat, among whom were five officers.
Two horses were wounded, and mine fell under me, pierced by three balls.
I think I may say that my regiment did almost more than could be expected, and than was possible for four hundred men to accomplish, which number was all its effective strength present. It had saved the battery which had been confided to their care, had held the enemy at bay under a terrific fire for two hours, and maintained their position for half an hour after their ammunition was all expended, waiting for more, and which they were unable to obtain. It was only when the regiment was relieved by the Tenth Massachusetts that it retreated in good order to a small wood near the road, where there were intrenchments, and where it was joined by Company I, and twenty men of Company H, who had been detached for picket, before the regiment advanced. During our retreat, an American flag was saved by one of our officers— Lieutenant Philip C. Rogers, of Company G—who, while in advance of the regiment, found it outside the abattis. The regiment who lost the flag can find it again at General Peck's headquarters. All our companies suffered much, especially those on the left, who, notwithstanding their more than proportionate loss, conducted themselves with exemplary bravery. Our loss as far as can at present be estimated is over one hundred men. 
I conclude by saying that I have just cause to be proud of the conduct of my regiment, and hope that you will take due notice of their brave conduct in this hotly contested affair. I remain, General, very respectfully,
L. THOUROT,
Lieut. Col. Commanding Fifty-fifth N. Y. regiment.
A. DE ST. JAMES, Acting Adjutant.

I enclose you a list of the killed, wounded and missing, by which you will see that our loss is about one-fourth of the force engaged. I cannot close without saying that, as far as I am myself concerned, I feel proud to have the honor of belonging to such a regiment, and only wish we had more of such men, as with the losses sustained by sickness and fighting our regiment is considerably reduced.

CORRECTION OF LIST OF WOUNDED IN THE FIFTY-FIFTH NEW
YORK STATE MILITIA.
HEADQUARTERS, FIFTY-FIFTH N. Y. S. M.,
BEFORE RICHMOND, June 7, 1862. )
I shall feel obliged by your rectifying the following misuses, which I find in your issue of 3d of June:—The name of the Adjutant of the Fifty-fifth, who was wounded in the left arm twice, is Leon Cuvillier. You mention also as wounded Captain Edward Binsse, of our regiment. That officer could not have been wounded, as he was not in the battle. F. PETARD,
Surgeon, Fifty-fifth New York.
The following is a correct list of the killed, wounded and missing, of the Fifty-fifth regiment New York State Militia, at the battle of Seven Pines, Va., on Saturday, May 31, 1862:—
COMPANY A.
Wounded—Sergeant Schouier, privates Raynor, Roblin, Leon Ebert, Philippe, Hubert, Emile Couillon, Charlemen, Broni, Helmlinger, Curtis, Fabre, Gorge. Missing—Pedro Alvarez, supposed prisoner.
COMPANY B.
Killed—Corporal Wm. Sullivan, private Ed. B. Van Buren.
Wounded—Privates Richard Archer, seriously; Millie Gilbert, slightly; Wm. Foy. slightly; Mat. Maher, seriously; E. Moore, slightly; H. Marguilot, slightly; Geo. O'Brien, seriously.
COMPANY C.
Kitted—Privates Pfaester, Cheret, Jordan. Wounded—Privates Walter, Hood, Mayen, Mason, Balsiero, Muth, Garibaldi, Constance.
COMPANY D. 
Killed--Privates Auerbach, Tragg. Wounded—Sergeant Gangloff, Corporal Moll, privates Branderhorst, Showat, Pahl, Heyret, Bush.
COMPANY E.
Killed— Privates Curtis, died of wounds; ____ O'Donnell, died of wounds; ____ Cor, died of wounds. Wounded—Sergeant Guorin, privates C. Hartman, Ed. Soyer, Lecouke, Kearney, Leggett, Matthison, Beuvit, Thos. Cave, Lepine, Candeaux, Kaseloun; Corporal S. Kavanagh, Lieutenant T. Arnould, privates Scheihaus, McCarty, F. Kirch.
COMPANY F.
Wounded—Orderly Sergeant Bertrand, bugler Arrillier, privates Bartholomew, Sherman, Lighthouse, Schaeffer, Muller, Staehler, Girard.
COMPANY G.
Killed—Private John Wise. Wounded—Captain Pfanmuller, Sergeant Schmitlin, Corporal Perdat, Corporal Favre, privates Rastader, Kies, Schedli, Bruneman, Keller, Eiche, Heckman, John Shine, T. Gerding, V. Schmill.
COMPANY H.
Killed—Philip Daum. Wounded—Lieutenant A. Kramm, Orderly Sergeant A. Zeller, Sergeant Tatig, privates F. Ruader, John Glaiser.
COMPANY I.
Wounded—Corporal Chas. F. Benjamin.
COMPANY K.
Killed-—Privates Hattondorf, Pat Brown. Wounded—Lieutenant L. Iralls, Orderly Sergeant J. Mayan, privates Jos. Brown, Wm. Black, Aug. Burghier
James Free, Wm. Reed, John Smith, John Cook, Corporal H. Russell. Total—14 killed; 92 wounded.

55TH REGIMENT— An effort has been made of late to rescusitate this command by parading on several occasions of receptions. There appears to be a strong desire on the part of this command to be continued in the service, and we can see no cogent reasons why they should not be re-organized with Colonel Le Gal at the head. The peculiar temperament of the material composing justify the appointment of Le Gal as colonel. He is associated with them —socially and by nativity, and no person could be found better adapted to their wants. The position of the regiment demands a head, and we hope something will be immediately done to bring the regiment into active service.

NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS.—The Fifty-fifth (French) Regiment, New York city, have elected as Colonel the Baron de Trobriand, for some years editor of the Courrier des Etats Unis. They expect to be accepted under the new requisition for troops.

THE FIFTY-FIFTH REGIMENT.
The 55th Regiment is under marching orders. The headquarters, at Lafayette Hall, Broadway, was the scene of business yesterday. Recruiting was brisk, and Col. Le Gal was busily employed in making the arrangements necessary for his departure. The members were present at the hall last evening, and exhibited great enthusiasm in the prospect of their friendly visit to Pennsylvania.

WAR CORRESPONDENCE.
From the Fifty-fifth. Regiment, N. Y. S. M.
--Life at Camp Tennallytown—Newspaper Reports—Fort Gaines—Mounting the Cannons—The Cold Snap--Pay Day among the Troops—A Review that did not come off, etc.

(From Our Own Correspondent.)
CAMP TENNALLYTOWN, October 31st, 1861.
Since the memorable night when 12,000 men of our Division bivouacked near the Chain Bridge, the night when the, to us invisible, enemy was expected to cross the Potomac, nothing remarkable has transpired within the precincts of Ten(n)-ally-town, with the exception, that on the day of the battle of Ball's Bluff, we were constantly under arms, without, however, taking part in the conflict. Our boys in camp were very much amused to read, on receipt of the New York papers, of "the glorious day at Edward's Ferry," the "great victory," etc. The very same day almost, we knew all about here that it was a terrible disaster to our arms; that it was a wasteful sacrifice of human lives, with nothing in case of attack to cover the retreat of the advancing column. How great was our surprise when we saw it all pictured as a victory you can readily imagine! But alas! it is disheartening, discouraging, almost to a great many of those encamped around this city, that actual victory has not yet perched upon the Union arms. Every man in the ranks of this Regiment thirsts for the day when the scales will be turned in our favor, and an old-fashioned battle will make an end to all reviews, inspections, and parades, with which we are daily occupied, ad nauseam, even. Still we have not been idle. Fort Gaines, which when we occupied this camp was anything but finished, has now its cannons mounted and is ready to do its duty. To the Zouave Company of the 55th Regiment, especially, belongs the honor of having mounted them. They went there daily under charge of their Lieutenant, and the last day, at the mounting of each cannon, cheer upon cheer announced the completion of their work.
The last few days have been very trying to the novices of camp life. The cold weather has suddenly set in and at night it is anything but comfortable on these heights. Still the 55th are well clothed, well provided with everything necessary, and look with considerable pity upon many soldiers of the surrounding regiments who deficient in proper uniform and warm clothing; suffer terribly these cold nights. Our Regiment have some three weeks since been paid off for its services, while on Staten Island. To-day it will be mustered again for payment for the months of September and October, and by next Wednesday the cash will again be distributed. Here now is a proof what proper management in a regiment can do. You have heard no doubt often of troops not being paid and the Government was blamed. It was never the fault of the government, and it is always the fault of the regimental or company commanders, who fail to comply to have their men mustered for pay when the army regulations require it. Gen. McClellan besides, has instituted a wholesale reform in this respect. The whole army of the Potomac is paid off every two months and on the 1st November, the proposals must be handed in at the Paymaster General's office, said army having been paid last on the 1st of September. If now you hear of soldiers not being paid it is their Captains or Colonels fault, who do not employ the proper men to supervise these rolls, and by mistakes, etc., delay their own pay. 
Yesterday our whole Division (Gen. Buell's) were expected to be reviewed by Gen. McClellan, but at the eleventh hour it was countermanded to the great disappointment of the men, who had just received their new red pants and expected to sport them at the review. But I believe they will soon have a chance to be satisfied in this respect, as I understand the grand review is to come off on Monday next. As to our remaining here, opinions differ. It is generally expected that in two weeks another advance will be attempted, encouraged (it may be) by the results to come from the great naval expedition. Others think that we will soon all go into winter quarters, that the Government is going to build large barracks around Washington and everything will then remain in status quo till Spring. Who knows? But I do know that the 55th prefer a warm fight during cold weather, rather than be stuck into barracks and do garrison duty. Nous verrons.
L.L.

PATRIOTISM AMONG OUR FRENCH FELLOW-CITIZENS.
— Our correspondent refers in his note below to an address which, owing to its length, we were unable to publish. His statements that our French citizens
are active in their patriotism, are true beyond question.

ROME, N. Y., Oct. 30, 1861.
To the Editor of the Utica; Morning Herald:
I sincerely regret that my address to the French citizens of the United States and Canadas, could not have been published in your paper, for I would have been happy to see it inserted in as popular and as widely circulated journal as the Utica HERALD. My sentiments would have reached many of my countrymen in this section of the State, and my friends, the Americans, with whom (the true American I mean,) my heart fully sympathizes in the struggle of our common country. But I perceive that my letter is too lengthy for the size of your daily, and as it has been published in the Canadian papers in its original language, I will content myself of a few English
copies which I will soon issue. Please permit me to say, Mr. Editor, in addition to what I have already said in other places, that I have the right to believe that every intelligent and true Frenchman has at heart the maintenance of the Government, of the Union, and will labor for the welfare of the country of every free man. Yes! every descendant of the Lafayettes and the Rochambeau; (with the monstrous exception of Beauregard & Co.)—every son of the Papineaus, the Chenier and the Delorimier, will ever cherish their ancestors' memory, and, proud of their noble deeds they are ready to sacrifice their lives, and march to the defense of the banner of the free. Here is an example among thousands: Last week the French Canadian papers announced that a French Battalion, "Les Chasseurs de Vincennes," was to be organized in this State, by a French gentleman of high military as well as literary capacities, of Troy, N. Y.; and that any applications to join this corps d'armee, might be directed to me. Among several applications, I received this morning a letter from a French Canadian of Quebec. The writer is a civil engineer and architect employed by the Government, and moves in high and sociable circles. Notwithstanding all these advantages, he is willing to leave his home and family and enter the rank of our grand army. Here is a part of his letter: I think to partake in all your sympathies for the holy cause you have espoused, and I would be happy to do my part for the re-establishment of the Union, and of that beautiful Republic which incessant prosperity made the joys of noble hearts, and the admiration of all people. In offering you my services, I offer them with all the devotedness I feel, and all the energy of which I am capable." This speaks well for the French Canadians; it is indeed of the spirit of the veterans of "37." Let the French of Canada have an opportunity, and they will prove that the Marseilles Hymn can produce battalions among them, as it created regiments in France. 
Beware, Mr. John Bull! the moment you touch King Corn, the Eagle will scream and the Beaver will bite.
With high consideration, my dear Editor, yours, &c., 
DR. J. N. CADIEUX DE COURVILLE.

(May 1, 1861)
THE FIFTY-FIFTH REGIMENT.
The Fifty-fifth Regiment will occupy Camp Anderson today. It will form line at Lafayette Hall at 11 o'clock, and march down Broadway to join
companies A and E, which are encamped on the Battery. On Thursday the recruits will join the camp, and be drilled and equipped. The regiment is comprised principally of Frenchmen who have seen service. The regiment parades 300 muskets. The recruits number about 400, making in all a strength, of 700. The following is a list of officers:
Colonel---Eugene Le Gal, commanding.
Lieutenant Colonel—S. J. Leclerc.
Major—Thourot.
Adjutant— Dela Figaniere.
Captain Engineers -- Le Moyne.
Quartermaster---Meeks.
Paymaster—Barker.
Assistant Paymaster—Knapp.
Assistant Quartermaster—Berhard.
Sergeant Major---Jules Moreu.
Ordance Sergeant—Martin.
Sergeant Quartermaster—Asher.
The companies are commanded by the following
Captains—Tissot, Navierie, already on duty, Goulet,
Pfenmuder, Battois, Wolff, Four.

GENERAL HALL'S OFFICE.
No orders were issued at General Hall's office yesterday. It was understood, however, that the Fifty-fifth regiment (Garde Lafayette) would be sent into camp on Saturday. The Battery is the spot spoken of as the camping ground.

GARDES LAFAYETTE.
There are now attached to this regiment, Colonel De Tabreau in command, about seven hundred men, who are encamped at Camp Lafayette, on Staten island. They have a recruiting office at Lafayette Hall, and expect, in the course of a couple of weeks, to fill up to the army standard, which accomplished, they will leave for Washington. Most of the men are Frenchmen; but there are companies of other nationalities. The majority of the officers have seen service in other countries.

ENCAMPMANT OF THE FIFTY-FIFTH
(FRENCH) REGIMENT.
The encampment of this veteran regiment on the Battery grounds is now complete. Everything being in readiness for the regiment, a second division, yesterday went into quarters. The general appearance of the grounds is very pleasing and attractive. The brilliant uniforms and glittering weapons of officers and men, and the perfect evolutions of the corps, have attracted numerous visitors to the encampment. Everything is in complete military order and the drill yesterday developed the most thorough efficiency of the men. The recruits are getting on finely. And in a few weeks more will begin to be as military in their air and gait as any of the vieux moustache of the Guard. 
At one o'clock yesterday a finely equipped company marched down Broadway to the Battery to the music of the fife and tambour.
The pretty fille du regiment was with them, looking as bright and joyous as the budding roses of spring. The little "Son of the Regiment," if he may be so termed, was also on hand in all the paraphernalia of zouave habiliments. The company was greeted with loud cheers as they approached the battery. The vivandiere is a great favorite with the public, and deservedly so. The men of the Fifty-fifth are greatly disappointed at the prospect of forming a part of the home guard or household troops. Better luck next time, as Jacob Faithful says. (May 1, 1861)

THE GUARD LAFAYETTE.
The Fifty-fifth Regiment, under the command of Major Thoubot, formed for inspection of Fourteenth street, between First and Second avenues, the soldierly bearing of the man eliciting the encomiums of the spectators. Col. Le Gal appeared on the ground in citizen's dress, acting as General of the Third Brigade. After nearly two hours' delay, Capt Dodge and Dr. Crawford, of the United States Army, Major Wood, Ex-Gov. Fish, and other members of the Union Defence Committee, arrived and inspected the regiment. There were 414 men on parade. Some 450 members, impatient and indignant at the quantity of red tape measured off to this regiment, have joined other regiments, some of which have left for the seat of war, while the others expect to go in a few days; 53 went with the Fourteenth Regiment, of Brooklyn; 62 go with the Garibaldi Guard, 25 with the Ninth Regiment and Swiss Guard, and the remainder with other regiments. The officers of the regiment are as follows:
Staff Officers—Colonel, Eugene Le Gal; Lieutenant-Colonel, Louis Le Clerc; Major, Louis Thourot; Adjutant, E. La Figaniere; Quartermaster, J. W. Meeks, Jr.; Commissary, E. Meeks; Paymaster, S. Barker; Assistant Paymaster, A. M. Knapp; Surgeon, N. Kalmineret, M. D.; Assistant-Surgeon, Arthur Wolff, M. D.; Chaplain, C. Lasalle; Captain Engineers, A. Lemoyne, now absent in Europe; Acting Captain, C. Gutman. 
Non-commisioned Staff— Sergeant-Major, A. Absell; Quartermaster-Sergeant, P. Provot; Orderly-Sergeant, S. A. Martitt. Line Officers—First Company, Capt. Naviere; Second Company, Capt. L. Battois; Third Company, Capt. H. Goulet; Fourth Company, Capt. J. Fissot; Fifth Company, Capt Four; Sixth Company, Lieut. Jehl; Seventh Company, Capt. Pfanmuller; Artillery Company, Lieut. Girardon; Pioneers, Serjeant Guront; Zouaves, Captaincy vacant. 
Uniform of the regiment, red cap, light blue frockcoat, red trimmings, red pants. Uniform of the Zouaves, red cap, dark blue jacket, red trimmings, red Zouave breeches, with yellow and white leggings. The officers and men feel much aggrieved at the treatment they have received from the Union Defence Committee. They have paraded before for inspection. gone into camp on the Battery for a few days, had their orders countermanded, &c. Notwithstanding all these drawbacks, the regiment are not only ready but anxious to march at any moment to uphold the Government of their adopted country; but they are now told by the Union Defence Committee, that they cannot be accepted unless they muster 1,600 men. Many of the members of this regiment served in the Crimean war, and the regiment, if called into service, will reflect credit not only upon themselves but our City. The memories that cling around the name of the Guard Lafayette entitled them to generous treatment from the principal City of the country which never will forget the generous and brave young hero from whom the regiment derives its name; and its members are now anxious to emulate the example of the young French Marquis of '76.

CITY INTELLIGENCE.
The Fifty-fifth Regiment. The difficulties which have heretofore prevented the Fifty-fifth (French) regiment from going to the seat of war have been entirely removed, and it is gratifying to learn that the favorite Garde La Fayette will soon be in the field. On the outbreak of the rebellion, there was no regiment in the city more prompt and enthusiastic in tendering its services to the federal government. The regiment, always a favorite, met with liberal encouragement from our French and other citizens, and the Union Defence Committee were anxious to forward the Fifty-fifth with the fourteen regiments they selected in May. Want of a full complement of men alone prevented this fine corps from being one of the very first regiments in the field. The appointment of Colonel De Trobriand has infused new life and spirit into the corps, and with the most liberal promises of assistance from the state, the Fifty-fifth will thoroughly complete its organization and put itself upon the best French war footing. Colonel De Trobriand has located his camp at Newdorpt, Staten Island, about a mile from Camp Scott, and the regiment will go on the ground Wednesday. It will remain there until its organization and equipment is complete; and Colonel De Trobriand will make every effort to put his regiment in the field as soon as possible. Our French citizens are justly proud of this really excellent corps, and it is believed that it will be forwarded to the seat of war in a condition second to no regiment seat from this city.

The Troops on the Battery.
The following communication from the Quartermaster of the Fifty-fifth (French) Regiment explains the circumstances connected with the Battery encampment and the troubles of the troops: 
" To the Editors of the Evening Post: "I wish to correct the false impression that the public may have received from a card published in one of the daily papers, over the signature of Colonel Tompkins, Second Regiment, in which he attributed the suffering of his command to misstatements made by the regiment that preceded him in occupation of the Battery. The Commissary of the Second Regiment called on me asking information as to number of tents, mattresses, &c., on the ground, and stating he desired accommodations for 900 men. "I informed him there were but one hundred and fifty each of mattresses and tents, and as that number would be altogether inadequate to the wants of his regiment, I gave him a memorandum of what he ought to procure additional. I took the trouble personally to count for him the tents, mattresses, &c., that there should be no mistake, and offered such advice as my experience suggested, in order that his men might not suffer what we did the night preceding. "I also offered them my services in any way I could be of assistance; two other officers connected with the Second Regiment were also present, and left with my memorandum for the Quartermaster- General's, as I presumed. I am not willing to be responsible for their neglect and carelessness, especially when I had taken particular pains to give them such information as should have prevented the suffering which occurred only through their own inexperience.
" J. W. Meeks, Jr., Quartermaster 55th Reg't.
" May 6, 1861, New York."

FIFTY-FIFTH NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS, OR FRENCH REGIMENT.
COMPANY A.—Wounded—Private Pierce Wauthenan, slightly.
COMPANY E.—Wounded—Privates Julius Kramer, seriously;
Nicholas Bettinger, thigh.
COMPANY F.---Wounded—Private Louis Friedauf, slightly.
Company G.—Wounded-First Sergeant Joseph Korwin, seriously; Second Sergeant Chas. E. Irwin, seriously; private Chas. Ackerman, slightly.
COMPANY H.—Killed-Private Herman Schwab. Wounded—Privates Philip Lutz, seriously; Andrew Metterwoold, slightly.
COMPANY I.—Wounded—Sergeant, John Ottleara, seriously; privates F. Beroit, seriously; Geo. Demenger, slightly; E. Mabile, arm; Hy. Gotlreaux, severely.
COMPANY K.—Killed—Private Geo. Rust. Wounded---Private Wm. Hatfield, seriously. 
RECAPITULATION.
Killed. Wounded. Missing. Total.
Company A — 1 — 1
Company B — — — —
Company C — — — —
Company D — — — —
Company E — 2 — 2
Company F — 1 — 1
Company G — 3 — 3
Company H 1 2 — 3
Company I — 5 — 5
Company K 1 1 — 2 
Total 2 15 — 17

GENERAL ORDER OF BRIG.-GEN. COUCH ON THE BATTLE OF WILLIAMSBURG.
HEADQUARTERS COUCH'S DIVISION,
CAMP NEAR NEW-KENT Court-House, Va.,
May 14, 1862.
GENERAL ORDER No. 37—The Brigadier-General commanding desires to express his thanks to the Division for the heroic courage and fortitude displayed by them at the battle of Williamsburg, Va., on the 5th inst. Gen. Peck, with his Brigade, consisting of the 62d New-York, 93d Pennsylvania, 102d Pennsylvania, 55th New-York, and 93d Pennsylvania, had the good fortune to be in advance; and arriving on the battle-ground at a critical time, won a reputation greatly to be envied. Gen. Devens, with his Brigade, hurried forward. The 2d Rhode Island and 7th Massachusetts were pushed to support Gen. Peck at a trying period of the fight, and were faithful to their trust. The 10th Massachusetts, was sent to the right to support Gen. Hancock, and did good service. The General commanding deeply regrets the absence at Warwick of the 36th New-York. Graham's Brigade came up too late to share in the glory of the fight, but not too late to assure the Division-General that they were ready for any duty which soldiers could be asked to perform. Friends! we have gained the confidence of our country; let us in future battles, as in the last, show that we can face our Rebel foes, and whip them, too. By order of Brigadier-General Couch. 
Francis A. Walker, A. A. G.
Official-Wm. H. Morris, Captain, A. A. G.

THE FIFTY-FIFTH REGIMENT.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE HERALD.
NEW YORK, May 29, 1861.
Will you kindly permit me, through the columns of your valuable journal, to call the attention of the powers that be and the public to the following fact:—the members of the Fifty-fifth regiment (Lafayette Guard) New York State Militia, desirous of maintaining the honor of the regiment to which they belong, and also the name of Frenchmen, which they arc proud to call themselves, have offered themselves en masse to the government of the United States to maintain and defend the flag and the constitution of their adopted country. Now that they are ready to march, their services appear to be despised, or at least to be useless to support the government. On the l7th of April the regiment was asked if it was willing to go. The reply was unanimous, "Yes." The 1st of May the regiment received an order from the Governor to encamp upon the Battery and hold themselves in readiness to march. On the 3d of May a new order was received to quit the camp, being replaced by the Second regiment. Why was this? On the 25th May the Fifty-fifth, by order of the Union Defence Committee, passed inspection, but up to the preset time no new order has been received. In consequence of all this "red tapeism" the regiment, which two months since was complete, has now about 100 men, fully equipped, who are all desirous of enrolling themselves as the Fifty-fifth regiment New York State Militia for the duration of the war. In order to satisfy ourselves and the public, we respectfully beg that you will publish this plain statement of facts, so that the citizens of New York may know why we are not now in the service of the government. P. P.,
Member of the Fifty-fifth regiment N. Y. S. M. New York, Aug. 13th, 1861.

To the Editors of the Sunday Mercury:
Can you inform me, in your military news of next Sunday, if the Fifty-fifth Regiment (Guard Lafayette) did, or have not now, a regimental band belonging to their regiment? By answering this, you will greatly oblige An Earnest inquirer. [They most certainly did have a band, and we believe it is not disabled as of yet.--Ed.]
(July 24, 1861)

FIFTY-FIFTH REGIMENT.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE HERALD.
It is now about six weeks since the Fifty-fifth regiment New York State militia (Lafayette Guard) received the Sixth Massachusetts regiment on their way to Washington. Since that very night the Fifty-fifth has, without interruption, continued to make preparations to march and defend the flag and the capital of the Union. All its efforts, however, have been in vain. True, the Governor ordered the Fifty-Fifth in camp on the Battery on the first of May, but after two days encampment, the Second regiment New York State Militia received orders to relieve us. Since that time the Governor seems entirely to have forgotten the Fifty-fifth regiment until yesterday, when a despatch was received from Albany, stating that no more militia regiments could be permitted to leave the city of New York. This now, Mr. Editor, is all the reward we have received for forty days' valuable time lost, in making the necessary preparations to march. The disappointment is especially painful for the Lafayette Guard. They indulged in the vain hope that, like their illustrious ancestors, they too would be permitted to fly to the defence of that same Union in the hour of peril. They had hoped to march over the same battle fields where their venerated sires once bled for a cause equally sacred. They had hoped to unfurl the Union banner again over that same Yorktown which once insured the independence of the United States, and on which hallowed spot American and French blood cemented a prosperity for this republic which during eighty years has stood without parallel in the history of any nation. But, alas! it was an idle dream, and no alternative is left for my brave soldiers but to form themselves into a "Relief Guard," in order to march to the scenes of action the very first moment that cries of distress shall be heard from these regiments which, more favored, have left before the Fifty-fifth regiment. LOUIS J. LECLERE.
Lieut. Colonel Commanding Fifty-fifth regiment New York.
State Militia (Lafayette Guard).
New York, May 30, 1861.

THE D'EPINEUIL ZOUAVES.
Lieutenant J. Sperking, of Company C, D'Epineuil ZOuaves, Fifty-third regiment N. Y. S. V., was presented with a very handsome sword on Wednesday evening by his friends of the Twenty-first ward, in consideration of meritorious conduct in the Seventy-first regiment while at the battle of Bull run. The sword was through Mr. J. Ehres.

Con. GARVIN DEAD.—Mrs. Garvin, the devoted mother, will no longer search camp and regiment for her idiot boy. Con. is dead. The Troy Times says the faithful woman arrived in that city on Monday morning with the tidings so sad to her, and an autograph letter from the President of the United States. It will be recollected that Con. disappeared from the County House, and was supposed to have been put in the army. After a long, weary pursuit, his mother found him in the Fifty-fifth Regiment. Very mysteriously he disappeared on his way to Troy. The aid of Governor Seymour, British Consul Archibold and Mayor Thorn were invoked. All in vain. The boy is dead. He fell at Cold Harbor, and the mother, like Rachel of old, weeps in vain for one of her children. A letter from Captain Joseph Eglot, says:—
" As Hancock's Corps was filing past Grant's headquarters—a magnificent sight, calculated to stir the blood—I espied near the Commanding General a sight not very common here, the form of a woman. The face seemed familiar, and on looking closely I discovered that it was Mrs. Garvin, in search of her son." Poor Con. will no more excite the solicitude of his mother; but she now announces her purpose of living for vengeance. So that although the hero of this strange story is dead, it is probable that his name will still be kept before the public by this untiring mother.

REGIMENTAL COURT MARTIAL.—Brig.-General Green has ordered a Court-Martial for the Fifty-first regiment, to convene at Regimental Armory on Tuesday, the 28th inst., at 12 M. Col. Shumway, of the Eighty-eighth regiment, will constitute the Court. The order for this Court is published in our advertising columns.

THE FIFTY-FIFTH REGIMENT IN CAMP.
THEIR DRAWBACKS IN JOINING THE ARMY—DESCRIPTION
OF THEIR CAMP—SOYER THE COOK—NATIONALITY
OF THE REGIMENT—ADDITIONAL COMPANIES
FINAL DEPARTURE SUPPOSED TO BE TO-MORROW, ETC.
Orders having been issued by the War Department to Col. R. De Trobriand, commanding De Garde Lafayette, to march his regiment yesterday afternoon, considerable speculation was rife whether the order would be carried out or not. It is hardly necessary to say that the command of Mr. Secretary Cameron or his deputies was not responded to, for which, however, no blame can be attached to the gallant Colonel and his command. There are about six hundred and fifty men in Camp Lafayette a charming plat of ground near Silver Lake, Staten Island, who are ready to go forward as soon as called upon, provided that the necessary equipments accompany them. The Fifty-fifth regiment is laboring under the same baneful influence as have the fifty regiments that have already been furnished by the Empire State, viz:—A chronic amount of "red tape," which seems to be bound as tight about the destiny of the French regiment as Harry Clay tied his wedding knot. The universal complaint is that the men are not furnished their equipments. Whose fault it is they do not assume to state; certain it is, however that they are not to blame. The men are anxious to go into the field at once. The gallant soldiers bear their disappointment in a philosophic manner, and, like Jacob Faithful, hope "for better luck next time." The camping ground of the Garde Lafayette, at New Dorp, presents a picturesque view, being laid out with great precision and considerable taste. A live American eagle, captured by one of the men, has become partially tamed, and is a sort of regimental pet. Curious mounds of sea shells are arranged in various places, and before the Major's tent a star shaped grass plot has been formed, with the word "Union" in shells. Little gardens of transplanted bushes and plants are before many tents, and snakes killed by the men are coiled in the grass, their heads thrust out in a natural and insinuating manner. Mile. Surand, the vivandierre, whose brother is a member of the Zouaves, Company I, will accompany the regiment to the battle field. Her sweet mien and gentle deportment make her the favorite of the regiment, and it is cheering to behold the rough and uncouth soldiers pay homage to the petite vivandierre. The sleeping and mess arrangements for the regiment are similar to those on Riker's Island. Barracks capable of accommodating 1,500 men have been erected. The regiment is constantly kept at drill, and the Colonel is very strict in granting furloughs to the men. M. Leon Cuvillier has been appointed Adjutant, temporarily, inasmuch as the officer occupying that position has been detailed on recruiting service. A good French cook is attached to the regiment who calls himself Soyer, after the great chef de cuisine of the French army. Whether the name is real or assumed, one thing is certain, the members of the regiment consider him master of his art, and are as well pleased with M. Soyer as if he were the Simon Pure Crimean article. The nationality of the regiment, as composed at present, is three-fourths French, the remainder being made up of Germans and Americans in about even proportions. Company H has the fullest ranks, numbering 84 men. Of the others, Company A has 50 men; B is an artillery company, and will not go to the war, as government will not provide it with guns; C, has 40 men; D, 53; E, 60; F, 50; G, 40; I, 60, and K, 60. Company I is a Zouave corps. It is now confidently expected that the regiment will leave their encampment to-morrow, and march through the city en route to Washington. At Philadelphia about one hundred Frenchmen await the arrival of the regiment, which they will join, and another company is also expected to arrive to-day, composed in part of Frenchmen also. This will nearly fill the regiment to its maximum number. The following officers are connected with the regiment as far as elected:-—R. De Trobriand, Colonel commanding; Louis Thourot, Lieutenant Colonel; Francis Jehl, Major; Leon Cuvillier, Adjutant; Felix Petar, Surgeon; Theo. Arthand, Assistant Surgeon; J. W. Meeks, Jr., Quartermaster; Chas. Ebel, Assistant Quartermaster; Stewart M. Taylor, Paymaster; L. Israels, Sergeant, Major and Colonel's Secretary; Antoinne Guerner, Quartermaster Sergeant; Ordnance Sergeant; Justin Bourdounay, Drum Major; Wm. Roowell, Hospital Steward.
Company A—Captain, Chas. Navietre; First Lieutenant, Charles Bourguard; Second Lieutenant____.
Company C—Captain, Louis C. Battals; First Lieutenant, A. Vignot; Second Lieutenant, Wm. H. Schmidt.
Company D—Captain, L. DeMasure; First Lieutenant, _____; Second Lieutenant, _____.
Company E—Captain, John H. Tissot; First Lieutenant, J. Arnould; Second Lieutenant, A. Terran.
Company F—Captain, J. J. Four; First Lieutenant, Aug. Rudinger; Second Lieutenant, P. P. Jantzen.
Company G—Captain, J. C. Pfanmuller; First Lieutenant, John Skarren; Second Lieutenant, A. S. James.
Company H---____Captain, Kuntz; First Lieutenant, Philip Meyer; Second Lieutenant, J. Huell.
Company I—Captain, A. E. Veyer; First Lieutenant, George H. Felt; Second Lieutenant. Wm. A. Wood.
Company K—Captain, Geo. C. Williams; First Lieutenant, Ashley Van Duzer; Second Lieutenant, Ph. C. Rogers.