Camp Cary, 13^th Reg^t Mass Vol.

Warrenton Junction April May 1^st 1862

 

Dear Father

                                                I received your welcome letter this P.M., and having a little time before dark, I thought I would answer it immediately. I have written two letters during the past ten days, and should think that you it was about time for you to get them. Things are the same here as before, with the exception that Abecrombie has been put on the retired list and General Hartzman has taken command of the brigade. We cannot tell whether we will move soon or not. / I should not wonder if we joined McDowell at Fredericksburg. Do you think it would be strange if McDowell, Banks and Fremont, concentrates and pay a visit to Richmond, while McClellan keeps the enemy active at Yorktown.

 

            Whatever may be done I think it will be done soon. It has not been very favorable for active operations during the past two weeks, as it has been quite unpleasant.

 

The Co are mostly quite healthy we had baked beans this noon, and you should have seen the rush for the Cook House, when the bell rung. The sutler came here last night with a car load of stuff, and sold all out to day. I received that package of Mr Batchelder, and everything / was very acceptable indeed.

 

            I have made a cup of that coffee, and it was very nice. The maple sugar also was very nice.

 

I think that Batchelder was very kind. By the way I got those two letters that you sent me with stamps, and I answered them soon after getting them.

 

I shall put five dollars in this letter, and in my next five more, and then if one is miscarried I will not lose all.

 

We received news of the capture of New Orleans on Monday the 28^th and it is very good news too, It being one of the most important news cities in the south. I wonder if Fred participated in the fight. / Have you heard anything from him lately.

 

I saw in the Philadelphia Enquirer that it is thought Boureguarg was evacuating Corinth, and strengthening Memphis. I hope to hear good news soon from the war in the West.

 

Worcester is very well, and he and Clark send their respects. I am glad that Dave Hinckley is going to write me, as he has not written me for some time. I receive letters two or three times a week from Chelsea.

 

I have not got any of the papers yet but will acknowledge receipt as soon as I get them.

 

Give my love to all the folks in So Walpole. My best respects / to Uncle Henry, and Aunt Kate, and mention that those socks were very acceptable.

 

With love to Mother, Ada, Henry, I am your affect

son Cha^s E. Leland

 

Write soon and oblige.

 

Direct as before.

 

P.S. I forgot to mention the gallant charge of Co H (Chelsea) 1^st Mass, on a redoubt at Yorktown in which three were killed, one George Campbell I knew very well. Several of them are wounded. That is a fighting Co and no mistake. Bully for Chelsea!

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