Head Quarters 137^th Reg^t P.V.

Camp near Belle Plain V^a

April 23^d 1863.

           

Dear Friend Jacob:

                  Yours of march 18^th was duly received. I have been very busy during the last three or four weeks making out reports &c. My time has been pretty much occupied. Will you excuse me for being so tardy in answering your letter! I will try and be more punctual in the future. I am very glad that you discovered your mistake, and sent me Fitch's full address. I will write to him so soon as I get this letter finished.

 

Our regiment is encamped in the same place it was when I wrote you last. The health and condition of the Reg^t is very good at present. The boys from Wayne County are getting along finely. The most part of them are in good health and what is equally as important are in good spirits, in fact the whole army of our / the Potomac evince a much better spirit than they have previously done for sometime. The bad weather which we have been having in this quarter for the last three months has prevented the army from doing any thing. The weather is becoming more settled and it is quite probable that the Army will move in a few days in the direction of Fredericksburg, the great center of attraction at present. Gen Hooker means I think to let the rebels on the other side of the Rappahannock know and feel that this army is not to be bamboozled by them any longer. The soldiers have unbounded confidence in the ability of Gen Joe Hooker to command them and lead them on to victory. They will follow him with high hopes and bright anticipations. This morning our Reg^t received orders to be ready to march in an hours notice. It has the appearance of a rain storm this evening and we may not move in several days. 

 

Our Company will be mustered out on the 20^th of May. I think we will be mustered out in the field. The Co^l Lt. Co^l and Major have given me the assurance that if it is a possible thing they will procure for me the Adjutancy of a regiment. They are all personally acquainted with Gov Curtin. I hardly know what course to pursue. My brother Samuel wants me to go into his law office but it is quite probable I will come back into the Army.

           

My health is still very good.

                       

Give my love to your family.

And except a good share for yourself.

                       

Write soon for it always gives me much pleasure to hear from you.

                       

Direct as before.

                                                                       

Yours Affectionately

Francis. P. Longstreet

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