In Camp before

York-town Pa. Apr. 21^st 1862

 

Dear Mother

                        It has been some time since I wrote you; nearly two weeks; my last was dated at this place have you received it?

 

            With the exception of the first three days there has not been much fighting since we came here. during those three days the shells burst very often around and over us; during that time we were encamped in sight of the enemys works only one mile distant. on the fourth day after our arrival we moved back nearly one mile behind a piece of woods which shield us to a great extent from the enemy; but now we occasionally receive a visit from Secesh in the shape of a large shell; however thus far they have done no harm.

 

            I presume it is a matter of surprise to some that there has been no general engagement before this at this place; and some feel inclined to censure Gen. McClellan for not immediately moving upon their entrenchments; if there are any who thus think they can at least be set down as persons who know nothing about war. I have not of course had the opportunity of ascertaining the exact strength of the enemy either as to the number of troops or the extent of his fortifications that have been permitted to some; but I have by running the risk of getting / shot by the enemys sharpshooters been able to get some idea of the strength of his works; Those directly in front of us extend from north east to south west some two or three miles; on the left is a strong fort which commands the river; here are some very heavy guns on a certainty and 10 yds from this there is a high entrenchment running towards the west, connecting with another fort which is strongly defended; the entrenchment then extends still on to another fort and so it runs the entire length of their position defended at every available spot by heavy guns; In front of their works is a large open field from one half to a mile across, throughout this field they have rifle pits from which they continually fire upon our pickets. in approaching their works we shall be obliged to cross this field directly in face of their fire which cannot help being very destructive; If we had been thrown upon their works when we first arrived thousands upon thousands would have been killed but by waiting a little time preparations can be made whereby many lives can be saved; I am told that Gen. McC said soon after arriving here that he considered a few days and a little money of no account side of the lives of his men. 

 

            We came in from picket duty this morning. this is now quite dangerous sport; the pickets are stationed among some small trees just at the edge of the large field I have already spoken of; the men are obliged to keep very quiet; most of the time lying down to keep from being seen by the enemy in their little pits; whenever we show our heads through the bushes we are fired upon. Yesterday the bullets whistled very close to us doing no harm however; it is there is considerable sport in drawing this fire then dodge and hear the bullet whistle past;

 

            Your two last have just been received also papers. You can rest assured that I shall do my duty faithfully here and if my life is spared in all other places I may be placed

 

            When we came here the rebels left so suddenly that they forgot to destroy their telegraph wire or any thing; among other things left was a steam saw & mill which has been very useful for us. also a lot of grain cattle &c. one man left his plough in the field where he was at work the morning we arrived. When next you write please enclose a paper of large size needles also in directing put on the letters F. J. Porters Division

           

No more time now

Charley.

 

P.S. Send papers as often as possible

 

[note]

 

Lt. Charles F Lee 18^th Reg. Mass. Vols

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