Head Qurs. Co 'E' 38 Wis. Vol.

Before Petersburg Va. Dec 21^st 1864.

 

My Dear Friends.

                        I having nothing to do to day I thought that I would pick up some curiosities and send them to you. So Lt Bently and myself went around our lines gathering the best we could find. You will find about 40 s[?] in all kinds of shapes just as they were when found. there are 3 labeled. 1 is from a sharpshooter. No 2. an explosive bullet. This kind are very scarse, as the rebels do not use them only on certain occasions when they have a good mark in the person of a "Yank".

The ground is covered in rear of the "Horseshoe". this is a portion of our line that is more advanced / than any of the rest. and from its shape the name is derived. it bends out like a horseshoe towards the rebel line. it was from this place that our forces made the charge on the rebel fort last July. The two lines being so much nearer together here than any other place, there is a great deal more fireing done. Last July and August our Regt occupied this part of the line. Now there is very little fireing done here or any where along that line as it is used for a picket line only.

 

            This package will be expressed from Milwaukee or Madison, as the Beaver is going to both of those places.

 

            Hopeing you will receive this in due time. You must write as I have received one from you for some time.

has been                                              

raining today

 

Yours truly

Frank M. Phelps.

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