Camp California Jan 14^th 1862

           

Dear Father & Mother

                                                It is snowing quite rapidly this morning—about two or three inches of snow when we got up. It is decidedly the most wintry weather we have had—puts one in mind of old Penna. If we were at home—we would say that this would remain for some time but it is likely that it will soon vanish. I received Mother's letter on Sat. evening—was just reading when J. D. Elder came in—was very glad to see him indeed—They are about six miles from us—have got a splendid suit—the French Zouave uniform. It is the most complete thing of the kind that I have yet seen.

 

On friday a box came from Latrobe for the Co. contained full five hundred wt of provisions—butter—sausages—cakes—bread—doughnuts &c. It was quite a treat to us. / Everything was equally divided between the messes—did not draw any meat for two or three days.

 

Was very much surprised to see Rev. A. Torrence & son also Albert Torrence came in to camp—remained with us all night—we treated them to the best we had—it was a very favorable time for them to come—As we had plenty to eat, Quartermaster Torrence is going home in a few days—Suppose you will see him. We wanted the Rev. to stay over Sabbath with us—and preach—as our Chaplain is absent. We have not heard of him for three weeks. Guess he is at home.

I was at Fairfax Seminary the other day—went up to the Cupola—had a pass from Gen Karney [sic] of the Jersey Brigade—had a splendid view of the whole army of the Potomac, Alexandria & Georgetown & Washington and a good glimpse of the river. Could see far out into rebeldom but could not distinguish anything. The Pensacola left Alexandria / on Sat. morning—to run the rebel blockade. We heard the booming of the rebel cannon firing at her on Sat. night—Yesterday we learned that she had passed down in safety. We get New York, Phila. Baltimore and Washington papers every day—So we can keep ourselves well posted—We have to pay from 3 to 5 cents for them.

 

It is a very hard place to keep money here—So many pedlars—hucksters—newsboys &c. Then there are many little things that we want—such as paper—pens—&c. I will send home all the money I can spare. will likely get a pair of boots—can get a good pair in Alex. for $5.50.

 

I wish you would send me some paper with Mr. Stouffer—about this—some a little larger—and two or three packs of envelopes. It cost so much here. We want Coleman's best quality—Cy. wants some too. I will put in a note for Mr. S. and he can get it all. We will settle with him when he comes. You can send a little along—but I think that we will be pretty well supplied with it. /

 

Ed. Smith and Charlie are getting a box from Clarion Co. It will be here soon. Two or three messes of dried corn would be very nice—and a roasted chicken would go good too.

 

I hope Mr. Stouffer will come—as we will be glad to see him—and wish to send home some things with him.

 

I would like to see you too, Father if you could come, but I know it would be inconvenient for you hence will not urge you.

 

Every thing goes along smooth as usual in camp. It is likely that we will be moved forward towards Springfield or Fairfax Ch. but will be held as a reserve. I don't think there is any idea of making a direct attack on Manasses.

 

Enclosed I send a slip from the Phila—Inq. containing a letter from the Fifty Third—I think it is written by the Adjutant. As soon as you read, let Mr. Stouffer's have it to read.

 

I suppose you have plenty of snow. Is John at home—what is he going to do—Write soon—give me all the news—

                                                                                   

Affec—Your Son

J. W. Barnett

                                   

Send Milton's Paradise Lost, if it is at home.                           

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