Huttonsville March 15^th 1862

 

            I intended writing to you last night dear wife but the business of the regiment kept me employed until it was too late. This is mail day and I steal a moment whilst my horse is being made ready to show you that I am thinking of you and home, and to let you know that we are all well. This morning I engaged to go to Huttonsville about one mile off to see Gen^l Milroy, and as soon as my horse is ready I must mount & away. We are going to advance in a day or two as far as the camp on Cheat Mountain, and our further movement will depend upon the views of the Gen^l. Last night was a merry one for the soldiers in camp. The spirit / of fun seemed to take possession of them. First a glee club was extemporized, and gave us some excellent music. Next I was called out to see an elephant with his keeper who appeared to be about nine or ten feet high. It was really a good imitation and the sham was greeted with shouts of laughter by the soldiers. After this was over I heard words of command given in a loud tone by some one apparently in command of a company and I hurried out of my tent to see what it meant at near nine oclock at night. As I went out I saw a small company of men approaching who all appeared to be about ten feet high. The officer in command had a drawn sword and gave his orders in a very loud deep tone. They looked very formidable I assure you and went through the drill with great precision / considering that one man was mounted upon the shoulders of another. The upper man had his blanket fastened around his neck, and hanging like a cloak it concealed the head & shoulders of the man below. This ended the fun for soon taps beat when all the men retired. The Captain of this company who is one of the Sergeants has just asked permission to get up a dress parade tonight after the same fashion, & I have given my consent so we will have some more fun. The men are happy and contented & will I do not doubt do manly service in the field.

 

            I must close as my horse is ready. Love to the children & all the family with kisses to darling wife

                                                                       

N. C. M^cLean

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