Hdqrs 1^st Brigade       

Hinks' Division      

  April 29^th 1864

    

Dear Mother                                                                                     

                                    I arrived here safe and sound with all my baggage last Sunday morning one day before they expected me but none too soon as the Hdqrs had already been moved up to Fort Monroe Camp Hamilton where I now write this. I have been on the jump between here and Norfolk ever since settling up old matters and now find the first chance to sit down to you. Firstly I found the Genl much fatigued and overwrought but does not give up. Mrs. W. and sister Annie were nicely also miss Wells. the two latter left for home on the day of my arrival here. All the Colored troops are concentrating at this point making one splendid Division with Cavalry and Light Batteries also Colored. I went to the sanitary Fair in New York—splendid affair. Did not call on the Frenchs reached / Philadelphia in the midst of a pouring rain but found Dear Susie Augustus and Emma all at home and very refreshing. They enjoyed good health and went out daily to make calls. I had a good solid time with them but learning of the Army movements was obliged to tear myself away and carry with me another of Parvins celebrated Boxes for "Mess" consumption. I met in the cars Charlie Chandler of Brookline now Lieut. Col. of 57^th Mass. Veteran Regt. quite an agreeable companion bound for Annapolis, Md. I had some time to spare in Baltimore but improved it by sleeping & study. I found many old friends on the boat to Fort Monroe and had a pleasant game of euchre going down. Everything arrived in good order in my boxes although the porters threw them round with perfect looseness.

 

My blue corduroys are much admired also my "fly traps" for boots. I was agreeably surprised at the cordiality which greeted me on my arrival here and in Norfolk never having taken any pains to cultivate any much friendship in either place supposing that my stay would be temporary. I am sorry not to have some greenbacks to remit to you but I only draw half pay during leave of absence & that will soon be swallowed up. However I hope to have some next week if the weather and Paymaster do not fail. E.A. liked the photographs much, Susie thought they were too careworn. If Father can understand you give him our united love EA's and mine and take as much as possible to yourselves all of you. thanks for my pleasant visit Yours in some haste            Walter H.

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