McKim's Baltimore

Md Feb 12/63

           

Dear Martha

                        I now take my pen in hand to let you know how I prosper. I wrote on monday that my legs were rather bad. I am happy to state that they are considerable better I have been having flaxseed poultice on them which took the swelling down a good deal. I am now able to walk around pretty well although I have not ventured out doors yet. This is a damp day yesterday it commenced snowing and snowed quite fast for a spell / but at night it turned to rain and to day is quite sloppy. Most of the men were paid off at this Hospital yesterday. I did not get any as I was not mustered in at this Hospital. I hardly know what to write to fill out this letter. As you must know that being cooped up in here would not afford much chance to get a great deal of news especially when I write so often. Since writing the above Mr Fisk has called and brought your letter and Uncle Charles's and those bandages. I was glad to see him I knew him when I saw him as I have seen him in his store. I do / not know whether I will get my discharge. As I told you my legs are considerable better and I expect that they will be about well by sunday and if I should be examined then I think it would be doubtful if I should get my discharge I do not know as you Father could help me much. Mr Fisk did not make a very long stop. He gave me a half dollar. I did not wish to take it but he pressed it on me. I am sorry to hear that Mr Johnson's hand is so bad and was surprised to hear of the death of Mr Adams. Tell Estella and Ella that write very good letters only they make their letters small. that is write a / small hand. I am sorry that Evie is sick. You wrote that buckwheat flour was good for my legs That flaxseed poultice seemed to help them I have left off the poultice If I am examined sunday I will let you know the result. I hope Father will do well if he takes that job. Mr Fisk did not say anything to me about my discharge I am in good spirits I will send this ring in this letter it is not a very pretty one It may be too small. Perhaps I will send a bone one in my next. Did that other ring sent in a letter arrive

 

but I must close my love to all from your brother

                                                                       

William

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