Camp 1^st Me Cavy

On picket Oct. 7. 1864

 

Dear Brother:—

                        As I am on the reserve today and so not very busy I will pencil you these few lines although I may not be able to finish them for the enemy is just in front of me and very hard fighting is going on off on the James River.

 

            We have not had any fighting here for two days since we advanced and gained this position on the Vaughn Road but I expect we will be at it again very soon I have been very busy since my return when I have not been fighting, for the Regt / goes home the 1^st of next month and we are hoping to get accounts squared before that time. I have not yet decided whether I will go home or remain another year. I can do either

 

            My health is good as usual but I know I ought to have a good rest and yet I feel if I have any love of country, any patriotism or pride to see the end of this most hellish rebellion I ought to remain.

 

            I fear if I should come home that the detestable Copperheads would be such a source of torment to me I would not rest much. here we are free from all such anoyances and trouble /

 

            My latest news from home was that all was as well as when I left and Mother much improved. Mr Johnson and Elder Warren's wife dead

 

            The draft had not taken place in Waterboro but I expect it will and quite likely J or F will be drafted I am very anxious to hear from them

 

            The weather is very fine here, we can lay down on the ground any where and sleep as well without any tent or other shelter as if we were in a house. we get a pleanty to eat. since our advance out here we have sweet potatoes all the time Before we came they were selling for $15 per peck / southern money, but we get a pleanty for one dollar a peck, green backs, so dont worry about us now. I have bought a very fine horse since my return and if I come home think I shall take him along.

 

Please write as soon as you get this for I want to hear from you and the little ones very much. Dimond Hamilton is here and well

 

Ever truly

Your Brother

Paul Chadbourn

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