Warrenton Junction Va

Sunday Dec 13^th

 

Dear Father

                        I received your letter yesterday and one from Elsie to day. I have written several letters home since we came to this side of the Rapidan but I have received but few. We have finally got fixed in camp. I hope a permanent one. Our men have built very comfortable quarters. My tent (or house) is a log one roofed with a tent. It is small but still it is quite comfortable.

 

Our duty is pretty heavy, the men are on duty three days / at a time and then off three. I consider duty here more dangerous than in front. There is some honor in the Rebel soldiers but there is none in Guerillas. No Guerillas have showed themselves in our immediate neighborhood yet, But they have been sneaking about the line between here and Alexandria to day Col Hardin & Lt Col Gustin of the 12^th & Col Dair of the 5^th were riding along the R.R. between Catletts Station and Bristow and were attacked by six Rebels as they were unarmed they tried to escape. They succeeded in getting away. Lt. Col. Gustin was wounded through the hand & Col Hardin in the arm. the bone is so badly shattered that it is feared he will lose his arm. The Rebels escaped unhurt. 

 

Several days ago we received a communication from Genl Meade urging us to be very vigilant as his scouts had discovered that the Guerillas were making preparations to make a concerted attact on the line of this R.R. We thought that they intended to make an attact today or tonight. We made preparations to meet them. If they come we will give them a warm reception. This is an important point. We have three Reg'ts now a battery and several companies of Cavalry stationed here.

 

This Reg't guards about two miles of road now. I expect to go on tomorrow in charge of the line. I am now 3^rd Captain in rank in the Reg't and act as field officer on details.

 

            I will be glad to get that / diary. I will need one. it is impossible to get one here.

 

            My company is on picket now, or rather a part of it. I have about 15 men who are unfit for duty on account of clothing Shoes are very bad. My requisitions have been sent in a long time ago, but have not been filled yet.

 

I have been trying to get a pass to go to Washington to get some clothing for myself but have been unable to get it yet.

 

I would have you send some things by express, but it is very uncertain about getting anything sent in that way. Send that diary by mail. let the envelope be open at the end and it will come for a few cents

 

My love to All

                       

Your affc't Son

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