Camp of the 14^th N.J. Volunteers.

Near Petersburg, Va. Mar 2^nd 1864.

 

Dear Parents

                        It is rather late in the evening for me to seat myself for the purpose of writing a very lengthy letter, but as I am not in the least sleepy, having taken a short knap this afternoon, I will pen you a few lines informing you of my good health and the safe arrival of your kind favor together with two Standards. I forgot to mention in my last that I received two from you. There is nothing new for me to write you so I presume my letter with no news will prove disinterresting enough.

 

            Daniel Thompson started for home this morning. I think you will see him before this reaches / its destination. I guess his furlough came to hand sooner than he expected for he started off in a hurry.

 

            It has been very stormy all day and would have been dull enough had I not been employed the most part of the time writing.

 

            I am truly glad to hear that Adam has been converted May God strengthen him and help him to bear the cross for it is light easy and the burthen is light. I hope his old comrads may follow the good example. God will surely bless all who call upon Him. God grant many may yet be brought to see their sins and repent 'ere they find it too late.

 

            I hav'nt had an opportunity had an oppor to visit my old friends in the Train but once since I came to the Regiment. I am still / acting Regimental and Brigade Sergt. Major and in consequence have to be on hand the most part of the time. still my duties are very light. I have to mount the Regimental Guard and then repair to the Brigade Head Quarters and mount the Brigade Guard.

 

            The Boys are all in the blest enjoyment of good health and I must earnestly hope this may find you and John enjoying the same comfort as also your near neighbors and friends.

 

            Esec had a letter from Bloom Rowland a few days since. he is out in the oil mines in Pennsylvania and judging from the tone of his letter likes the business quite well. Wil Aumack, John Edwards & two or three others are with / him. I must answer the letter for Esec tomorrow if I am at leisure, but I have such a grist of writing on hand that I can keep myself busy all the time if I chose to making out Pay or rather Muster Rolls &c.

 

I have nothing more to say this time excuse the shortness and bear in mind that I write quite often so it gives me a poor chance to write a long letter and besides there are times when I can seat myself and write a good long and interresting letter then again it is right the reverse (the latter tonight)

 

            Write soon remember me to all my friends who may enquire

                       

& I remain Truly

Your loving and ob^t Son

Al

Serg^t 14^th N. J. Vols

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