Camp of the Amb. Train

3^d Division, 3^d Army Corps

Brandy Station, Va.

Feb 29^th/64

 

Dear Mother

                        As my time at present is unoccupied, I will try & pen you a few lines in answer to yours of the 26^th which came to my shanty yesterday. I was very happy to hear from you again.

 

            It is a dull morning and trying to rain, but it dont seem to make it out. I rather think it will break away after a while.

 

            There is no news at the present of very much importance. The 5^th & 6^th Corps have been out on a reconoisance but as yet there has been no fighting. A Cavalry man came in / from the Picket line yesterday and stated that the 6^th Corps had captured a number of prisoners, and it was also reported that a few nights since 500 Rebs came into our lines and gave themselves up.

 

            There is general muster at the Regiment today but I guess my presence will not be needed as I must be rightly accounted for. I think we will be paid again in a short time. I was at the Regiment yesterday, the Boys were all well.

 

            The protracted meetings are still in progress & 4 were converted last night. You wish to know how I cook beans / Why just the same as I would at home, put them in water over night and then boil them awhile until they begin to soften, and then put in my pork, sometimes put in a piece of fresh beef, onions & potatoes. In that shape it makes a gay old mess, that is not to be snuffled at.

 

            I hope your throat is better. I have had kind of a cold for a day or two.

 

            I was indeed surprised to hear of the death of Mr Clark and as well as many others. There seem to be more deaths at home than in the Army. The contents of my box are devoured. /

 

I was glad to hear of Belle's good luck and wish her all the success imagineable.

 

            You wish to know what I think of the prospects of the War. I think this is the last winter of its existence. no doubt there will be some hard fighting in the coming campain, but hotter war, sooner peace. I think before the next fall the enemy will be made to succumb to the mighty of armies of the North.

 

            I am glad Aunt Hannah is gaining. I will write them again soon. I have seen nothing of Mr Johnson. I have had a letter from Mrs Warren & a cheering one it was. My horse is all right. Hoping this finds you all well I close. My love to all, write soon /

 

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May God bless you all & protect you

 

I remain your loving Son Albert C Harrison

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