Major-General George G. Meade to Margaretta Sergeant Mead, May 12, 1864 – 2 P. M. (“A severe battle is raging, with the advantages thus far on our side. The enemy are strongly posted and entrenched, which, with their desperation, makes the struggle stubborn.”)
https://civilwarnotebook.blogspot.com/2014/10/major-general-george-g-meade-to_8.html
As Grant’s commanding general, if I felt I had time amid the heat of battle—with thousands dying—to pen even a brief note to the missus, I hope I would wonder if there might not be a better use of my time and attention.