Camp Sprague

Washington D.C.

Sunday Eve June 23 /61

 

To My Beloved Wife Edith

                        I have waited expecting to receive an answer to my last which I wrote on our return to camp. The R.I. Second Reg. arrived yesterday morning about ½ past two. we turned out at three and received them on our parade ground. they stacked arms and we each took a company and gave them a good breakfast, having made all preparations the night before. Among them I see Maria's husband as Corporal Lewis wrote me he was coming but I hardly believed he would and I think now, he will be among the first to back out for if he dont get tired of it I shall miss my reckoning. They will not have any easier time than we have had and I think also that they will not be liked as well as the first The citizens of Washington want us to stay here three months longer, and act as a Home Guard. they think every thing of us, but I do not believe that they could get a great many to stay, although there is quite a number who will go for three years. I am perfectly satisfied with what I have had of military and shall be content to start immediately for home as soon as discharged. / I can if I try I think get a chance to come again the pay is you know good, but I do love my home better than that and shall be content with the love of my Darling wife and child. From what I learned to day I think we shall leave here as early as the 17^th of July, which I hope will prove true. I hardly think we shall be moved from here again, but that cannot be possibly known.

 

We have had quite a rest since our return and we have become all right again. I have tried my best to get my pay, but as yet have accomplished nothing. I am very sorry for I need some myself. If it will agreeable to you and your father, you may take his offer and I will forward it as soon as I possible. I had rather by half you should go there than to have you experience a moment of unhappiness. Enclosed is some lines I cut from a paper. I tore them in getting them. I think them first rate. Col. Pitman has been sent home crazy Capt Pitman his brother went with him as far as N.York and I am in command of the Co. To day I should think there was over 1200 visitors to dress parade. We are all well and the weather is fine. I shall have to cut my letter short for it is late and I must be up early in the morning. I have written to Father & Mother. Give my love to Walter and Ada. tell him I will write him soon.

 

Love to all the family. The time is growing shorter / and we shall soon be together. The cake is nice I tell you but it would be nicer to be with you and eating it. Lieut Bushee sends his regards I have seen his wife's ambrotype. I should judge she is a fine woman. I have something to tell you when I get home.

 

            Now My Dear Good night and excuse me for not writing more. Hoping my Darlings are well I am still and will forever prove myself your

                                                                                   

True and Loving Albert

 

Write soon

 

[overleaf]

 

Sprague

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