Camp Butler Nov 9^th 1861

 

Your letter My Dearest Mother, has just been read, and your desire that I would reply immediately, is complied with. I knew that you would be very much disappointed when you heard that our discharges were not granted. I can say no more, in regard to them, than I have already written to you, except that I still "live in hope", so as not to "die in despair". I understand Col H. has written to the Sect. of War but I do not think it will do any good. John Calhoun left to day for Columbia, and I expect, ere this reaches you, he will be there, and you can learn a great deal about us, from him. I think it hard that he should get off, and not me. It is the general opinion that he got his on account of his Grandfather's name, surely I am as much entitled to mine, on account of my Father's name, and I think that if the President had ever received your letter that he would certainly, under the circumstances which I entered the service, grant me mine also. Tell Frank to write to him and state the circumstances, and I think he will not hesitate to give it to me. If I ever get to Richmond, I will go and see him, and I will "bully" him out of it. I know he was a friend of my Father's, and I will not hesitate to go and see him. I think as soon as we go into winter quarters, furloughs will be granted, for perhaps a week at a time, and I will apply for one, and go to Richmond. 

 

You speak of coming on to Richmond, it would be entirely useless, as you will not be able to see me. if you conclude to come any how, write to me, and I will do all I can to get to Richmond to see you, although I think it will be a bad chance. Mr Howell has applied for a discharge, and will also be at home in about a week. I only wish I was coming with him. I heard to day that the Yankees had attacked our battery coast. Tell Frank, there is his chance. I heard we had got worsted in the fight, and that seven ships had gotten into our harbor. all they have to do now is to let them land, and whip them out. I wish I was there to share in the fight. There is not the slightest chance of a fight out here. I must close with love to all, and especially to you my Dearest Mother. If I do not get my discharge, just think that seven months can not last always, and it will pass quickly away. Cousin Tom, John R. Willie Taylor, and all the rest of our boys are well.

 

Your affect Son

Albert. Elmore

 

P. S. I have just heard through D^r Darby that Col H. has received a letter from the President saying we could not be discharged, in face of an enemy.

Albert Elmore

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