Camp Jackson Williamsport Md, Jan^y 17^th 1861.

 

Dear Father

          I received your welcome letter this AM, and will now answer it.

 

            Everything is dull about here, and there is no news whatever. I rather guess that Fred is rather sick of staying so long in the harbor, and presume that he is far on his way by this time. I sent him a letter the other day, and hope that he will get it. I received your papers to yesterday and I suppose that I receive all that you send me. I do not think that this war will affect the business much of any, and by spring I think it will be good. I think that we shall have a little business before that if you do not. What do you think of the foward movement. I hope that Burnsides Expedition will succeed, and also the one on the Mississipi. The rebels will have to catch it pretty soon. We could see a signal last night from over / the river, but do not know what it meant.

 

We do no guard duty here now (our Co) having thirty three men detailed to do duty down town.

 

            We are growing fat, and are preparing for anything which may come up.

 

            I wish that you would send me the True Flag or American Union every week, as then I should have stories right along.

 

            The Captain thinks of going home next week, and said that he would call on you.

 

I flatter myself that I am looking about as healthy as I ever did. Friend Clark and Worcester send are well, and send their best respects. I answered my letter mothers letter the other day, and presume that she has got it by this time. All I need now is envelopes, and some writing paper. Do you think that you could send some on to me. We expect the Pay Master now every day. I shall send you some more money when he arrives. Please continue to send me a few stamps whenever you write as / I have a good many correspondents.

 

We still live in a tent, and are likely to for some time. Hoping that you will write soon and with love to Mother Henry Ada and yourself I remain your affectionate Son

Cha^s E. Leland

 

P.s We have had a little sleighing the past two or three days.

Be sure and direct as before to Williamsport Md and not to Hancock.

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