Headquarters of 148^th N.Y.S.V.

Camp Folger Portsmouth Va March 14 /63

 

My Dear Sister

                                    I have just rec^d & read your letter and having nothing to do this afternoon I thought I would have no better time to answer it I am well excepting a slight cold was out on picket last night & feel some sleepy intend to take a nap when I get this finished.

 

It is quite cool here now last night was about the coldest night I have been on picket

 

We some expected an attack last night or at least that was the report and the Col. came & cautioned us to keep a sharp look out I was with three others on the outer post. But I could not make it seem as if we were / going to be attacked and felt about as safe as I should at home I set up till twelve & then laid down & slept well till five Sat afternoon we have no drilling so the boys are playing ball and pitching quoits dont look much like war.

 

A number of carts were brought up to the Col's to be searched this A.M. in one there was a false bottom dont know how much they found.

 

One of the F.F.Va. consisting of a gentleman and three ladies were brought in to be searched They went in pretty good style covered carriage &c

Capt Hewitts wife searched the women. dont know what success she met with

 

I dont know but we will be doing duty in the cities (Portsmouth Norfolk) / before long men are being detached and sent there every little while to do guard duty Capt. said the other day he thought we would be there before long We will have considerable duty to do there but will have first rate quarters.

 

            Four boat loads of troops came into Norfolk yesterday bound for Suffolk. they were were from Acquia Creek. I suppose they are to check Longstreets reported movement.

 

Lieut Brown's wife is here He went to Baltimore monday & met her there

 

I should like to have been home and attended the wedding but I am satisfied here with the 148^th I believe the draft will come on yet and if it should light / on some of the young bridegrooms they might wish the had come with 148^th. We have been very fortunate so far.

 

I dont think Harrison's cards are any thing extra dont begin with George Ashleys my way of thinking I dont know how Ed Stevens and Em would look together. guess Ed could not do better than to slash in. I wish had something to send Willie but have nothing you can give him my love and kiss him for me I have got my boots mended cost me 9 shillings I would like to see Addie's photograph I wrote to her some time ago. rec^d no answer yet

 

Give my respects to Mr. John Williams sorry to hear that has been sick I expect I could handle about a barn yard full like him now

                                                                       

Love to All

                                                                                   

Your Brother

C. E. Reed

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