Headquarters Co B 13^th Mass Vol

Picket Guard

Williamsport Md Feb^y 19 1861

 

Dear Father.

           I received your good letter the other day, and as have just got off guard thought I would answer it now.

 

            I sent you a late number of the Richmond Enquirer, that I got from across the river. Have you received it yet? I was up three miles on picket the other day, and had a very good time of it. A Corporal and three men go up there every three days to relieve the ones on guard there. 

 

There is no news here of any consequence but there has been some good news from the West. Those victories will tell on the rebels, and they had better look out for themselves

 

Remember me to Mr Brown if you see him.

 

You speak of their being vacancies in the Army if the war continue a year longer. All is if it does, and I think as I do now, I shall try to join the Regular service, if I can get any office in it. I suppose that Henry will have all the fun he wants such as casting, and skating at Grandfathers. I should like to go there myself. 

 

You mentioned my sending home ten dollars, and thought I should have sent more. I had to pay my part towards fixing the tent this winter. And when we came down here I had to pay a little for lumber for shelves &c around my bunk. Then I owed the sutler about four dollars. I had to have made for me a new pistol case, as the other was all worn out. Then for several things such as candles, chocolate &c. when out for two or three days on picket took considerable of my money. And I wished to send keep some spending money for butter and other things. I received just two months pay from U.S. 

 

I wrote you last that I weighed 145 lbs. Day before yesterday I weighed myself on the scales in the Commisary's tent, and weighed 146 lbs. Coat off. George Worcester was with me at the time. George is very well, and went up on picket to be gone three days this morning. He wished to be remembered to you. Hoping that you will arrive home safe I re, and with love to Mother, Henry, and Ada

 

I am your Affectionate Son

Cha^s E. Leland

 

I received those papers that you sent me.

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