Camp on Minors Hill

Va

Jan 7^th 63.       

 

Respected Parents,

                        Yours of the 7^th just rec'd I am well, my illness was occasioned by the cold I took. I went on duty and am on now I have not applied to the Surgeon as yet nor will I if it can possibly be helped. I did while we were encamped near Fort Ethan Allen go to him. he said if I would call at his tent he would give me some cough syrup. well I went down and he gave me 4 pills. I took them in my hand and started out, and when I got to the door I dropped them and could not find them again. I have a case of homeopathic medicines to which I apply when I get cold or any other ill. I have had no other trouble but catching cold and have had nothing bad at that. I enjoy myself here very much. The only thing / that will ever make me discontented is Lieut Col. Pitman. It is rumored that we are to have a Col soon, also that Pitman will resign if he is superceded. I am sorry to hear that Walter is sick. I hope he will soon get better. he is not dangerously sick is he? Write me again soon in regard to it. I have not yet heard from Lewis yet although I have mailed two letters to him since he went. I understood the direction to be Manchester instead of Newchester but think he would have received them with that direction. I am glad to hear he is teaching school Think he will do well at it and may insure him a better chance.

 

Have heard from Prele but once have written him twice. Speaking of Lewis chopping in the woods, we have our share of that. one Company is detailed from the Brigade / each week to cut wood for our consumption. they do nothing else in that week. It has not yet come our turn although we have been out in the woods once, that is the whole regiment were detailed one afternoon to cut logs to build a stable. It took 400 logs 20 feet long and from 7 to 9 inches at the butt. they were all cut and backed into camp a distance equal to that from Knight Street to the Hoye Tavern and some of them were brought farther than that. We commenced at ½ past one oclock and finished in time for Dress Parade ¼ past 4.

 

The weather for a few days past has been very changeable. on the 4^th it rained all day and it was quite warm. to day it has been so cold we could not drill, although Old Blinkey had the battallion in line this afternoon ready for it. Our / Major who is more humane went up to the Generals to see if we should drill. He told him No. and said the weather was not fit for any one to be out. so we took the double quick step to our quarters It is rumored that we get our pay this week. I have earned quite a good sum in making bone rings, and also in carving them, but have as yet received nothing. I made two for a Lieut in Co G for which he agreed to give me a dollar each. I can make one a day and drill beside. If you will send me the expense of the tools I will pay for them. Edith is now visiting in New York or I would not put you to the trouble. Rest assured I will let you know when I am sick and just as it is thus far my sickness has been very light.

 

Hoping you are enjoying good health and that Walter will soon recover and with Love to all I am your affectionate Son

Albert

 

Regards to all inquireing friends

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