Head Quarters            

32^nd Reg^t M Vol         

March 29^th 1863

 

Dear Colonel

                        I find myself indebted to you for two notes. I have been waiting in hopes to have something definite to write, but see no prospect of a change. Stephenson and myself are still in arrest but make ourselves as comfortable as possible, and as you say "are getting painfully fat". Notice of Lt Bower's discharge had been sent to the Adjt Generals office before yours was rec^d.

 

You did have quite a Levee of discharged (and as Mrs Partington would say) indignant soldiers. Speaking of her she says / Pickets driven in five miles What a strong fence it will make. Hoyt is as waggish as ever. he heaps the most of his abuse upon Dr Faxon, although at the time the Dr was thrown from his horse, Hoyt said he never would blackguard him any more, but as he improved he forgot his promise. And now is as bad as ever. We had a new Asst Surgeon come yesterday. he is rather an old man but will make a good man for us I think, although he has got a good deal to learn about this kind of life. Your advice about applying to Gen Hooker or Gen Halleck is very good, but being under arrest suppose it would not do to make such an application. I should be / glad of the change for I expect it will be unpleasant as long as we are here. a more recent report shows the Regt to be in better condition than the one I wrote you about, so furloughs were given to the men, and "leaves" to the Officers. Dr Adams, Tay & Bancroft are at home you will probably see them. Gen Hooker has got one hundred pair of oxen to help the cannons & wagons out of the mud, I suppose, also pack saddles for the mules, in case the wagons cannot go to carry ammunition. I expect we shall have it rough during this campaign. Dana & Kingsbury have not returned yet. Capt Bumpus has today tendered his resignation again, as his wife requires his / "personal attention" in a certificate from their Physician. the Col & Qr Master are inclined to make fun of it, but you know their weakness.

 

How is the Adjutant? remember me to him when you see him if you please.

 

Capt Bowers has returned looking very much improved for his vacation.

 

The Regiment went out on picket this morning for three days they have got beautiful weather. Fred Crossman last night climbed the greased pole which the 9^th raised for St Patricks day and got the furlough. it was good for ten days I believe, but yesterday was the 11^th he has tried it every night I believe, but did not succeed until last night dont know

 

[front top margin sideways]

 

Whether he will get the furlough or not, but I believe you do not like love letters, so will close hoping you will excuse this hastily written note. now believe me

                                                                                                           

truly yours

 G L. Prescott

 

[side margin]

 

Col Stephenson received your letter tonight & we shall call Dr F— Fox after this. Jackson wishes to be remembered to you and yours.

 

[endorsement]

 

Col Prescott

Mch 29 1863

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