December the 25^th 1862

Camp Near Fredericksburg in N Virginia

My Dear Daughters Lizy and Matilda—

 

I thought I would write you these few lines to Let you know where I am and how I do. To tell the truth I am tired of the soldier life, we have to move so often and march so stady and fast at times that I am almost completely used up Otherwise my health is well enougf answering what I have to go through I am now in the same Camp we was before we went to Fredericksbourg. We went from here the 11^th Dec and returned the 17^th precisely in the same place it is about 5 miles from the above named city and I am glad and thankfull that we came or retreated so safeley from a place where we stood in so much danger from the rebels batterys planted all along in the rear and above the city. It has been very cold for a few days/past but today is mild and pleasant I would like to get free from the army very much it is no place for an old man like me but I fear I cant get no discharge at present. About 2 weeks ago John came here to see me he was well then and is now for all I have not heard from him since we came from the city he told me that Franck was not dead as supposed at first but that he was in some hospital but could find out where he learned that from some friends I wish you would send me a pair of good woolen gloves mittens by mail. We are moving so often and have so poor accomodations for writing that it is rather to much undertaking to write very often At any rate answer this as soon a recieved from your true and                                       Devoted Father

                                                                        Francis Aubin

 

P.S. Fred Guillaume

is in the same tent with me

 

Iwill send within 5 dollars to pay for the (?) and Keep the rest

 

[margin:          I will send you some mony as soon I Get my pay]

SOURCES