In the field Va, June 8^th 1864—

 

Brother Samuel

                                    I wrote you Sunday We have not moved since then still lay in the same pit. We are safe from Rebel bullets here unless a man exposed himself. Been but few casualties in our Regt during the last 2 or 3 days I rather be here than farther back unless I was way back in the rear. The bullets all go over our head now. Yesterday a 12 pound round shot struck the bank of our pit went through a cartridge box & overcoat It is pretty hard for us here have to be on the alert constantly. We have been here 5 days and nights. Our line is the advanced one the rebs are right across an open field in plain sight. Yesterday & day before there was a flag of truce It seemed good to feel safe a few minutes. No bullets whistling I am getting some of that fat off me, rather thin now. Last night the band played Dixie. The Rebs cheered then they played Yankee Doodle groaning to the place of cheering. I have heard the Rebel band play.

 

I wrote in my last I wanted a hat I forgot to state the color or sizes I want a black hat size about 7¼ or larger I guess 7½. Send me paper and envelopes in your letters for I cant get any here. No letter from home since last week tuesday. You must write often. I am well. Dont get much sleep here. No sleep last night till 2 oclock Jo Sullivan was here this morning. He is well & sound Have not heard from Adams lately or since he went to the rear. Love to all  Brother Charles

 

[overleaf]

 

Mr Samuel P Reed

            Richmond Mills

                        Ontario County

                                    N.Y.

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