Send copies of the letters contained in the St. Louis Republican. They were received today addressed to Uncle Armistead. City of Mexico, October 1, 1847 – particulars of Brother William’s death. He was Aide to Col. Clark Commander of 2nd Brigade of Gen: Worth’s Division. Morning of the 8th, they reported to Col. McIntosh. Col. Clark had been wounded at Churabusco. Took possession against the enemy lines at dawn and were given orders to charge and drive the enemy from the position in which he occupied. Order was obeyed and we were victorious but at the expense of our best men. 1/3 of the men and 21 of 41 officers in our division were killed or wounded. Brother was shot down by a musket when within 10 feet if the enemy’s 1st line of defense. Ball struck him just above the knee of his right leg (breaking it) and then he was struck down by a lance which ultimately killed him. During the long and bloody fight his sword and sash were stolen as well as the ring on his finger. He was buried the next morning in sight of the battlefield with the other 120 who fell with him. Col. Scott and Captain Merrill are buried on either side of Burwell as well as his little dog Rod who had been shot through the body during the battle, but was found licking his masters wounds before he died. 9/10th of those who had their limbs amputated have died and so it is good that Burwell’s was a quick death. 8 of Burwell’s regiment, more than half of those who initially came to the City of Mexico have fallen. Burwell has an ink stand sand box and wafer box which he took to the castle of Perote. He is noted as wishing his brother in Vicksburg had them because he would have appreciated their curiosities. Enclosed are those items in addition to a letter from Col. Clark to General Worth about his death. R.W. Kirkman cut locks of his hair and will send those in the trunk but enclosed are locks of hair that had been cut by the lance that killed him and were lying on the ground near him. Been with Burwell since the first of May and any further questions I would love to help. –R.W. Kirkham Adjt. 5th Infantry. Tacubaga, Mexico, September 10, 1847 – excellent qualities possessed by William T. Burwell. Beloved for his suavity and irreproachable manners. –N.G. Clark Col. 5th infantry.