Hampton Roads July 2^d 1862

 

My dear wife

                        Havnt we been kicked round lately? There never was a regiment in this world that had been in so many brigades in a week as we. They told us when we went to Fairfax Seminary that we were sure to be there six weeks; we were there 3 days. There we heard that M^cClellan was beaten and we were ordered to be ready to march at a moments notice. We were ready but it took 24 hours to get us off to Alexandria after a fine contest with red tape. Then we had to fight for a steamboat, but finally got off and had a charming ride down the Potomac and Chesapeake bay taking 26 hours for it. I slept two nights on the top of the hurricane deck, one night in the rain. I am fat & hearty and dont mind anything but quartermasters. I am afraid of them.

 

            I wrote you a brief note this morning in the midst of hurry & excitement. There are many very sad scenes here but they are a part of the horrors of war & I was prepared for them. I was not prepared for the amount of stupidity incapacity and nonsense of the officials. Gen Dix is the only man I have found who knows whats what. 

 

            Dont mind if you dont get letters for paper is scarce and opportunity scarcer.

                                                                       

Boat ready

                                                                                   

Yours,

Fran^s J Parker

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