Camp of Division Sharp Shooters

Sat Morn. August 13^th 1864

 

            Dear Sister

                                    I rec^d your letter this morning. the comb came all right the Auguntine has not come yet. I hardly know what to think about Sams not being exempt on account of his deafness I know he should be and always thought he would be exempt on that account If he is drafted I dont believe he will pass I want him to be as deaf as possible. get his deaf ear towards the doctor If he is drafted & passes he must get a substitute. If I was at home I would not mind coming a year in his place. Perhaps he wont be drafted, at any rate he never can stand it down here I believe agrees with my health this kind of living and sleeping out of doors. I have never enjoyed better health than I have last summer & this I should think the men in town that are liable to draft would start a subscription to pay volunteers.

 

Our Company is to be enlarged by 50 more men. Yesterday we drew 43 Spencer's Carbine they are seven shooters. Lieut Paddock of Co "G" is detailed here now.

 

I am glad I sent for a rifle.

 

This morning heavy artillery firing is going on down on the right. It must on the / James or in front of Butler. Isn't it good news from Mobile. The Rebel papers feel rather gloomy about it I see.

 

I have written in two or three letters that those socks came all right. I shall need another pair as soon as I can get them I had a letter from Elmira Pennell the other day. They had just had a letter from Miss Green. Elmira thinks Miss Greens sentiments have changed some. She says the south will never give up &c. We had no rain on fast day To day it would be very warm but for a good breeze You have never written any thing about Carrie & Fannies visit at our house. Tell Carrie Purpent to send her picture to me as she agreed This winter I want my album sent to me. I drew some dried apples & beans this morning have got nothing more to do to day.

 

I was very fortunate in getting this place.

 

Have not lost only one nights rest since the first of July. Send Mothers photograph as soon as you can. I rec^d Sam's letter with the dollar a few days ago. I wish I had something for Willie. He will have to get along with my love. Write about the larkspur I dont what it is for. Write often

                       

Your Affc't Brother

Cha^s E Reed

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