Washington, D.C. June 3d 1865.
My Dear Mother:
Your letter of May 26th arrived night before last, and Jerusha's of the 30th came yesterday. I was glad to hear from home again, as it had been several days since I had received word from you. We are still here in Washington quietly awaiting our turn in transportation to Louisville. We will probably leave for that point either to-morrow or the day after. What route we will pursue I cannot say. If we pass through Parkersburg I shall endeavor to stop over night at home if possible.
It is a great disappointment that I am not permitted to go home. I had been entertaining bright visions of home enjoyments and comforts, and when first I learned that we would not be discharged but probably sent to Texas, I had a decided fit of "the blues". But the Texas affair is settled now, and although we will not be discharged, I suppose we will go no farther South than Lou- / isville. I know that I am needed at home, and dearly would I love to be there, but it is useless to murmur, although I can't help occasionally smarting under a sense of injustice. We have "conquered a peace" but its benefits are for those who have staid at home, not for us. Still I am resolved to accept my fate with the best grace possible, and to make my position as easy as I can. I am now acting as company clerk, and have no gun or cartridge box to take care of. I have recently been promoted to Sergeant which will insure me a little more pay in future. The pay is $20 per month.
We will not receive pay until we reach Louisville. I am not in special need of any money just now however, thanks to the kindness of an old friend and classmate here. I was in a very destitute condition as to shoes and clothing when I arrived here, and it was impossible to procure any from the Quarter Master. But thanks to his favors, I am now pretty well provided for. I want my blouse and vest sent to me when I reach / my destination, but you need not do it until further orders from me.
We will pass through Ohio some time next week, perhaps by way of Parkersburg; more probably however by Wheeling. If we come through P. it will be a temptation that I can hardly resist to stop at Marietta, even if I do it on my own responsibility.
Nothing of special interest is transpiring here. Direct your next letter to Louisville, my Co., Reg't. and Corps.
Your aff. Son
George.