A Soldiers Letters to Charming Nellie.
New York: Neale Publishing, 1908. First. HB. VG+. The red cloth is bright, even the spine which is unusual for a Neale. Gold lettering bright, square and tight. Front hinge starting. / No jacket. Item #237
Polley served in the famous 4th Texas Infantry (CSA) which was a part of Hood's Texas Brigade. This unit served in virtually all the major engagements with the Army of Northern Virginia and briefly alongside the Army of Tennessee at Chicamauga. It, along with the Stonewall Brigade, are two of the most famous and fighting units in the Confederate Army.
Sgt. Polley was wounded at Gaines Mill in 1862 and then lost his right foot near Richmond in 1864.
Polley was college educated and a writer of sorts There is controversy surrounding this book. Some say the letters are fictitious and that there wasn't a Nellie. Other scholars have stated, "Don't look at the format, the information is accurate. A "letter" format was Polley's choice to convey his message." (Writer's prerogative?) Polley went on to practice law, serve in the legislature and become commander of the Texas United Confederate Veterans with a rank of general.
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