Camp near Culpeper

May 2^nd 1864

 

Dear Father

                        I have intended to write before this but I have put it off from time to time I will now write a few lines I came through to camp safely. Got my accounts settled without any difficulty Arrived in camp the 22^nd of April. I found the men all well

 

            We were relieved last Friday by a Division of Colored Troops. We marched directly here came through in two days It was pretty hard marching to begin with after being in camp all winter. We are / now about two miles from Culpeper C.H. A little north of the town. It is thought that we move very soon, some think that we will move tomorrow or next day. It is hard to tell though. Everything is kept very quiet.

 

It is reported that Lee is leaving the Rapidan. some think he is going to Richmond then down the Shenandoah Valley. We will find out very soon whether he has left. Everything is being got in readiness to move.

 

            It is now decided that we are to be mustered out three years from date of State muster, I think that will be about the 17^th of June. It may be in July May as the State recognized / our muster from the date of our being ordered into camp. That was the 15^th of May.

 

            It is thought that the State will keep up the organization for State defense. If it does I think I will stay, for a short time at any rate.

 

We had a terrible storm this evening. it blew a great many of our tents down, then rained very hard. Mine stood very well.

 

            I have had a severe cold ever since I came back. it is some better now but I still am a little hoarse and have a cough.

 

The mail from the army is to be stopped as soon as a movement is commenced but the mail will come to the army regular.

 

            It is late I must go to / bed. Please excuse this letter I am sitting on the ground and writing on my knee. My back is very tierd. Write soon

Give my love to Mother and the Children

                                                                       

Your Affc't Son

JSWinans

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