Camp of the 3^d Division Amb.

3^d A.C. Brandy Station, Va.

Dec. 28^th /63.

 

Dear Mother.

            Akley has arrived at the Regiment and all safe. I am sitting on my bunk with my boots on, while I write you a few lines, as you said you would be anxious to know that they came through all right, and sure enough they did, stockings, &c. the boots could not have fit me any better if the shoemaker had had my foot for a last. they are perfectly easy on my feet everywhere / and so you can imagine that I am highly tickled. I hav'nt seen Akley as was my intention this morning, on account of my being on guard, so one of my men went over for me. I will expect the box to be at Headquarters by Wednesday perhaps on the morrow (Tuesday).

 

            The boys are all well in camp. Corp. Byram came to the Regiment last night I heard about 12 oclock & staid until 8 this morning, then hung out for Washington again. he came down with recruits.

 

            Well Mother there is / no news of any importance everything is quiet in this vicinity. We have had quite a disagreeable storm and it is still raining or rather fogging which amounts to the same, and making it extremely muddy under foot, so my boots I shall soon initiate and that very soon, for I must cut some wood or my old chum will not have any dinner for me. I am going to have some beef steak for dinner bread & butter & coffee. I wish you could dine with me. I'm sure you dont know what good / dinners we soldiers have. Give my love to Grand Ma & to John. what did the old Lady think of the box? remember me to neighbors & friends, both white & colored, sick & poor, etc. I was very much surprised to hear of the death of John Brand which appears very sudden, but in the midst of life we are in death. God grant to be with us all & bless us that when done with this world we may reign with Him above. I will write as soon as the box arrives so I now close with thanks & God bless you

                                                                       

Your loving Son

Albert.

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