Rapidan River

near Somerville Ford

Oct. 9^th 63      

                        

My dear Dot.

                                    I know not if you are aware of our change of position from Warrenton Culpeper to this place. I have been unable to write to you before owing to our march and picketing. I had just been relieved from a tour of picket last Sunday when orders came to move. I had barely time to finish a letter to Dr. Wilson (on his brother's affairs). We moved here to relieve the 2^nd Corps which had been on duty since Septem 17. We are once more "in the face of the enemy". The Rebs are down on the river bank, our line is about 100 feet back of the river on the summit of the bank. About ¾ of a mile back from the other side the Rebs have 16 guns in position and innumerable rifle pits starting from the waters edge almost. We have strong suspicions also of masked batteries in the woods on the summit of the range of hills running parallel with the river. They are very easy about their side, as they run around without their pieces and enjoy themselves hugely. We are obliged to relieve our posts at night under cover of our pits—for fear of a shelling—They relieve in broad day, with bands playing flags flying &c. &c. It is very tantalising to us, but we must swallow it. We are obliged also to hide our camps in the woods. We cannot get a piece in position anywhere near the river and the rascals know this. If they cross we cannot stand it, and must fall back. We are called up every morning at 4 o'clock and remain an hour or so under arms. In fact we may be said to be under arms all the time. / I do not believe it is the intention of either side to cross here, certainly not ours. We will remain here probably till after election, and then our Army will be once more concentrated and I fancy we will again fall back near Washington. I have nothing new or strange to write, and merely scratch this off, for fear I may not have an opportunity again for some time. Did you get my letter about a box? I dont know if I will get it now, as none of our trains are allowed to come up except the supply train. They are afraid of shelling. I trust Amy is better, Rolie well as ever. It pleased me much to hear your party came off so well and all enjoyed themselves. Of this more anon. Did Henry get my photographs? Weid and all are well, though I do not fancy all will continue so as I fear this place is unhealthy. Give love to all Kiss little ones and remember me ever as

                                                                                                           

Yours devotedly

Andy

 

P.S. I will again in a day or two.

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