Camp 11^th Regt. R.I. Vol's Minors Hill Va

Dec 22^nd '62.

 

Col. Metcalf.

                        Dear Sir:—     Accept a word of greeting from your "boys" in the "11^th" and please pardon the liberty I take in addressing you this note. We are still at the old port, performing about the same duties as before you left us. The "12^th" not so good or so old a Regt. as this, has been given the post of honor in battle while we remain doing "Picket duty". Such I suppose are the chances of war. Regimental affairs move on quite smoothly here; but permit me to say that your departure was universally lamented and not an officer or private but would gladly welcome their old Commander back again. Many are the words of respect and [torn] which I have heard for Col. Metcalf. As for myself Sir I shall never forget the rare courtesy & kindness which threw the mantle of charity over mistakes and generously gave me credit for the motives which I knew myself to cherish. Just before leaving here you were pleased to intimate that you thought me worthy of promotion and it has occurred to me that I may have conveyed to you in [torn] the impression that I much preferred to remain in [torn] present position, more particularly as you knew my [torn]ings in regard to leaving Co. K. some time ago. 

 

It is true that I have become much attached to that company but having endeavored to acquaint myself with my duties being desirous to become if possible a finished officer and most anxious to have enough to do I am ready for any orders. Yet I shall not seek anything for myself but am content to await the judgment of my superiors. The status of our Regt. remains the same. Lieut Thurber is now in our company and makes quite a good drill master. Lt. Stone is yet in Co. E. You, Dear Sir, will not misconstrue my motives in writing these few words of explanation and hoping that the "Great Master" may guard you and bring us all to an honorable and enduring piece, I remain, with much respect,                                                           

 

Yours sincerely

J. T. Edwards.

SOURCES