Camp of Division Sharp Shooters

Near Petersburg Va Sat Morn. July 16^th /64

 

Dear Sister

                        I wrote Sam last Sunday morning also got a letter from him. I think it very doubtful whether he got mine as the Rebs have been making some trouble there with the rail roads. I am well and still in the ration business. Have not been to the front since I came here I wrote to Sam last to see about getting me a target rifle. I am afraid that letter did not go through so will write in this again.

 

The Col (Guion) says I can carry it after I return to my Regt if this company is broken up after the campaign is over. I believe / I stand a better chance for my life with one of them than I will any other. I shall have no skirmishing to do for you cant load them fast enough. Then you always have a chance to choose your own position in a fight and can go where you please

 

Lefever of Canandaigua has made some target guns for the army they are recommended highly If I have one get one of the kind he makes for the army I dont know what they cost considerable I suppose. John Reed would be a good hand to pick one or Henery either If I should not want it after my time is out I want Sam to write what he thinks about / it as soon as he can.

 

I got a letter from Nathaniel this week answered it yesterday Nothing new here. There is a rumor the Rebs have got part of the defenses at Washington I dont want them to get there for I am afraid they will stop that Green Back machine I suppose your last letter is lost. Perhaps it may come yet. I am having a easier time now than I have had before since the campaign opened Mother better send me another pair of socks in three or four weeks If Sam should get me a gun he need not send it till he hears from me and then I will have it / sent in some officers name. I shall want a full set of equipments flask full of powder &c.

 

I hope I shall get a letter from home soon. No mail at all this morning. I have got me an old horse to ride after rations We draw pickled onions some now the other day I got beets. But there is only about a mouthful apiece

 

My love to Willie and all the rest Write soon

                                               

Your Affec't

Brother C E Reed

 

Four men from the 89^th N.Y. have just come They all have target rifles. Two of them telescopic. If Sam can get me one of that kind I would like it. I dont care if the stock is not finished so nice for this place

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