Uptons Hill Va

June 10^th/63

                       

Dear Father

                                                I received your welcome letter a few days ago. I wrote one in reply but we were sent out on picket and I did not mail it.

 

            We were ordered out of Washington very unexpectedly. It was reported that Gen'l Stewart (Rebel) was advancing on W— with a heavy force of Cavalry & some Artillery. There may be some truth in the report but I doubt it.

 

We had a little allarm on Monday last. Someone reported to Col Fisher that there were some mounted Rebels seen in the neighborhood of Lewinsville. The 9^th was ordered out we went to Falls Church then sent detachments to guard all the different roads. We were out all night, and neither saw or heard any thing of the enemy. I believe the whole affair was a hoax, but since that night we have kept up a strong picket and today we have a detail at work digging rifle pits, but for some reason they are putting them between our camp and the rest of the brigade leaving the 9^th out side.

 

I do not think there is the least danger.

 

            I have suffered from a severe cold for some time but it is almost well. It did me good / to come over here. I think that the country agrees with me better than the city.

 

I like being here much better than in W—. While we were there I was continually engaged by men being down in the city! Here I have but little trouble. The men are always here when wanted altho they can go where they please so long as they get back in time for Roll Calls.

 

            The reason I have not sent any money is I have not been mustered yet, and cannot be paid until I am mustered I thought I would be paid before the 1^st of June and that I could let Ary have some money I do not know when I will be paid, but unless I am paid / soon I will have to have some money sent to me. I will soon be out of money.

 

We have a very good looking camp but we are much annoyed by dust.

 

            I think that we will remain here until we are filled up or consolidated. I would much rather they would consolidate us for I think in that case I would be mustered out of service.

 

I would have written oftener lately, but my letters were not answered for so long after they were received. I think Elsie certainly has time to write oftener. Give my love to Mother & the Children

 

I am your Affec't Son

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