Corinth, Miss. Apr. 15, '63

 

Dear Mother:

                        Your letter came to hand somewhat unexpectedly night before last, as it had been but two or three days since I had received one from Hiram. Last night I also received one from Jerusha.

 

            Yesterday we had a little rumpus here which I will give you an account of under the heading,

Our Chase after the Rebs.

            Well then, as I have before informed you, for a few days past there have been rumors circulating of the proximity of the enemy, and their probable intention to pay us a complimentary visit. They however did not see fit to make us a call, although we made preparations to give them a warm reception, in the extreme kindness of our hearts providing a fresh supply of "hard crackers", i.e. cartridges, to distribute promiscuously amongst them. Night before last part of our company, myself amongst the rest, was on picket. The next morning, just before being relieved the distant boom-boom of a cannon was heard. We began to think that the rebs. were getting waked up somewhere; and when the guards were all withdrawn except those upon the roads we began to think, in our slang phrase here, that there "was a hen on". When we heard that most of the other troops with the exception of our Brigade had left / the town, and that the guard had orders to pass no one either out or in our previous impression was not at all abated. An Alabama cavalryman (Union) coming in informed us of an expected attack upon our outpost at Glendale distant some eight miles from here. The rebel force consisted of cavalry. They had had him prisoner only a few days before, and took him to Okolona, but he escaped by knocking down the guard. Well, being relieved, we had no farther business there, and so we wended our way to camp. Upon our arrival there, the orders were, "Be ready to march at a moment's notice". We supposed this a merely cautionary order, to prepare us should the rebs. attempt to come in, and that there was no danger of our marching, but scarcely five minutes had elapsed ere the bugle sounded "Fall in". Hastily throwing a little grub into our haversacks, and throwing our gum blankets over our shoulders, we were ready to go wherever ordered. In a very short time our Brigade, consisting of three regiments, and two batteries of artillery was on the road. A regiment of cavalry was also along, with a battery of flying artillery. This flying artillery consists of light short pieces called mountain howitzers, which can be hauled almost anywhere. The cavalry took our road and we another. No firing was now heard, but we plunged on, over the roads made muddy and slippery by recent rain. When we had traveled about three miles, we suddenly came to a halt and a force / was seen coming toward us only a short distance ahead cheering and waving handkerchiefs. What could it mean? Why an order had come to turn back, as we were not needed and so we were not at all sorry to do. Not that we were afraid of meeting the rebs, but because we thought it probably a "wild goose" chase. Well, we didn't exactly retrace our footsteps, for we took another road, coming into camp in a nearly opposite direction from what we started out; from which however it would not be exactly right to infer that we had traveled around the world. The results of our expedition sum up thus: None killed, wounded or taken prisoners, a large number of tired individuals, several wet feet and muddy pants on the part of those who wore shoes, and no small amount of self congratulation on the part of those wearing boots.

 

            Now then for the foundation of the alarm. A reb. force did appear at Glendale and demand a surrender, but not being gratified with a compliance they did not see fit to attack. Stirring events may be expected in this vicinity ere long. Several regiments went out last night, who will be pretty sure to wake up the rebs, somewhere. We will remain here probably.

 

            Jerusha speaks about an offer to buy the house in Lansingburg. My opinion is, that $375 cash will be better than the house. It is getting old, and will constantly need repairs, and besides it is too far away. I think you had better sell it. 

 

I received the package of paper sent the other day. It will be enough to last me for some time.

 

            About sending things. I need no stockings at present, and as to send a box will probably cost $1.50 perhaps it is best to send the suspenders and envelopes by mail.

 

            Remember me to Mrs. Leonard and family. Is she still failing?

 

            Spiritually there is no change in my feelings. As an individual I feel that I am safe in His hands who controls the destinies of men, and in His hands I feel that our cause as a Nation is safe.

                       

My love to all

                                   

Your Son,

George.

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