Camp Near City Point, Va.

Nov 10^th 1864.

 

My Dear Mother,

            As I have a few moments left after writing to Aunt and Uncle I will drop you a few lines to inform you that the box has arrived safe and the contents in good order. the box had not been opened for examination until I examined it. I am pretty lucky with boxes. it came last night and the boots fit as neat as a pin I hav'nt had a better fitting boot or one to feel / any easier. the cake tasted very much like home. I fancy those neck ties. But I am anxious to hear from you. I fear John is very sick. do write as soon as chance offers. I always feel contented if I know you are both well, but I get the blues as soon as I hear you are sick. I hope he is better, God grant, and I hope you are as well as can be expected. I have work on hand this morning and I cannot write you a long letter besides I wrote you day before yesterday. our camp has got to be cleaned / up and the manure carted away from the stables. the weather continues uncomfortably warm. I slept last night with no covering it was so warm.

 

            About dark last night there was some lively cannonading. I could hear no musketry as the wind was unfavorable. I like the handkerchief & in fact everything was nice. I must fill my pipe & take a smoke this morning. the clouds look wild & rainy. the wind keeps to the South.

 

            give my love to John tell him to trust in God, He is my only friend in / sickness. I am glad he is at home where he can get a good womans care. I tell you Dear Mother if there is anything in this world that will make the Boy value his parents it is to come out here & soldier three years. it will learn him a lesson which will not leave him through life, & a good one if he will but take it. But I have written you quite a long letter after all. it begins to rain I will have a chance to wet my boots I guess. Do write soon & the Good Lord be with & bless you in sickness & in health

           

Your loving Son

Albert.

 

[front upside down margin]

 

My tent mates are all in good health

A.

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