Camp near Fort          

Ethan Allen Va

Oct 19 1862

 

Respected Parents,

                        As I promised, I will write. after a tedious trip from Providence we are now settled in camp at the above named place about 2½ miles from Chain Bridge. arriving in N.Y. we took a dinner of ham soup at the Relief Committee rooms, took steamer for South Amboy, then by train of sheep cars to Philadelphia. here we were feasted on good things, took train for Baltimore. It was very hot and several men fell from sunstroke, marching through the city. here we took refreshments and started for Washington, arriving in the eve / about 8 oclock. Were quartered in the government barracks and fed in a nasty building Thursday morning went into camp on East Capitol Hill a miserable place remained until Saturday afternoon when we were marched to this place which is a fine location, healthy and beautiful. How long we remain here I know not they begin to talk of winter quarters, but if this weather holds on I think the army will be kept moving.

 

We hear no news here of the army.

 

Heard this morning of the death of Gen James. how sad. Suppose you have plenty of work. I could not get out of camp that day or I should have come down. /

I suppose you have heard from Leprelate. how is he getting along. I would like to know his P.O. address.

 

I have but little time to write and have hurried so on this. I do not know as you can read it. Will write again soon. Give my love to all Mother Susan and Walter.

           

Hoping you are enjoying good health, I am

Your Affectionate Son

Albert.

                                               

Write soon and direct

1^st Sergt. A. G. Bates

Co D, 11 Reg. R.I.Vols

Washington, D.C.

 

I will get it wherever the Reg. is

SOURCES