11^th Regiment Rhode Island Vols., Colonel Church.

Company D

Camp Metcalf Va                                                                              

Mar 15^th 1863.

 

Respected Parents.

                        You have no doubt by this time heard of my promotion to a Second Lieut. I was not aware of my success until Thursday last. Capt. Parkhurst being home on furlough brought it with him. I have made no effort myself but my Officers reccommended me with Col. Pitmans also and as luck would have it I am now in commission. I am assigned to Co. C. for the present but am in hopes I shall get in my own Co. or with Capt Ayer / he wants me very much. As soon as Col. Church arrives I shall make an application for transfer to Ayers Co. I shall not take my position for a week or so for I have a considerable to do before I can. I have to be mustered out and paid my back dues. then mustered in again. This is done in Washington I went in yesterday but was not in time. there is a large amount of face to be used for if Red tape is not seen here it is not to be seen any where.

 

By the way did you receive a letter and box of rings and a pine bough? by Orin Stanton? he was home on furlough and I sent them by him and not having heard from you in answer, I am afraid you have not received them. I understand he has returned but I have not seen him yet. How is your health and how is work with you? how many hands have you now. My letters may / now be addressed thus

Lieut A G Bates, Co D 11^th Reg R.I.Vols. Washington, D.C.

 

Do this for the present until you hear from me again. I have but little time to write more for the present Give my regards to all and accept the love of your Son                    

Albert.

 

P.S.

            Where is LePrelate now? let me know and do you hear from Lewis? write often and give me the news.

 

I have just received a letter from Susan

 

Kelly has returned he had but little time to go around as his family was ill at the time. Stanton has arrived he started sooner than he meaned to as his brother who was at home at the same time from a Mass. Reg time was out and he wished to come along with him.

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