Camp Near White Oak Ch

Sunday Jan 18^th/63

           

Dear Father

                                    I have not written home for several days and as I have time now I will write a short letter. I have not received a letter for some time but I suppose there are some upon the way.

 

We have a little cold spell now. I was very cold last night but it is quite pleasant again today.

 

I have been on duty for three days building corduroy road Was at work on a road leading from Falmouth to King George C.H. I was down the river about 10 miles. the road is but a short distance from the river. We are expecting orders every hour to get ready to move. I think there is to be another attempt to take / the heights back of Fredericksburg. This time we will most likely cross several miles farther down the river than we did before. I think we are to go down the road towards King George C.H. some place. Our men are not in good condition. Many are almost barefooted. In fact none of them are well clothed now. I think that in this move we will not be the first to go in. It is rumored that Reynolds Corps will be on reserve

 

There has been great efforts made to have this division sent to the state to recruit, but Secy Staunton has refused to allow us to go. Col Sickles (commanding the division) received a letter from some "official" in Washington—in reply to one he sent—which was written in Sec Stauntons office and dictated by him (Staunton) stating that / the Reg'ts in the P.R.C. would not be consolidated—as has been reported it would—and that they would be retired on light duty as soon as others could be brigaded and sent out to fill our place. This is deemed reliable. It may be several weeks before the others are ready, and we will have to do our share until relieved

 

Every one to whom I have spoken about the expected move are opposed to it and think it will be a failure.

 

I was detailed to take charge of five companies today for picket, but I was too sore (from walking) that I did not go. I have not received that box yet but think it will be along soon.

 

There has been nothing done in reference to filling vacancys yet.

 

I hear that Capt C— is at home and was likely to have a fight with King. He must have / insulted King grossly to make him think of fighting He was not noted for a propensity for it when he was with us.

 

I hear that Matthews was taken home to be burried. He was an excellent soldier. Most too reckless though. I believe he would have lived if his wound could have been dressed sooner. He lay in a ditch which was full of ice all night after the battle and during the night the heat of his body melted the ice and let him into the water Next morning a couple of rebels took him out but left him on the field. I must close. Give my love to Mother and the children.

 

I am

Your affc't Son

J.S.Winans /

 

P.S. I have not been mustered yet, and cannot tell how long it will be before I can be. I expect I will have some difficulty. Through Gen'l Jacksons Capt Cuthbertsons & my own ignorance I was never mustered as Lieut. I was put on duty as soon as elected and entered on the roll as Lieut. was paid as such over a year. I think if Capt C— was in the Reg't he would have to stand a trial for making false musters. I do not know how I will get the matter fixed I would not wonder if I would lose about a months pay. I intend to be mustered soon or quit doing duty. If I was / disabled in action it would make a difference of about $20.00 pr month in my pension. I dont think I could be compelled to do duty now. I intend to see the Adjutant General or Sec'y Staunton about the matter. I will let you know how I get along soon

                                                           

Your Son

JSWinans

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