Letter dated 20 November 1864, from Silas Doolittle, 75^th New York State Volunteer Infantry

 

                                                            Camp 75^th N.Y.V.V. near Newtown, Va.

                                                                                    Nov 20^th 1864

 

Dear Mother,

Your welcome letter of Nov 10^th reached me last night. I had not heard from home before in some time & was very glad to hear that all was well.

 

We have not moved since I wrote last—which was about a week ago. Everything seems to be quiet around here. I received a letter from Coleman a few nights ago. he also sent his Ambrotype. he looks tough and healthy.

 

Our non Veterans started for home to day, so our Regt. is very small, & are going to be consolidated into 5 Companies. “H” & “A” goes togather & will be called “A”. Edgar Baker is among the “non vets”. he promised to call there & see you & let you know how I am getting along. There has been an application sent in to the War Dept. to Discharge Buglers, Farriers, Saddlers, & Blacksmiths, & Maj. Thurber says we are sure of our discharge in a month or two. hope it is true.

 

The weather has been rather more moderate for a few days past & it is quite comfortable. I am thinking every day how you are getting along for wood this cold weather. now, you must not get wood that you will have to cut or split yourself. am in hopes I shall be able to get home this winter so I can see to it myself. If I do not get discharged I will try to get a furlough for 10 or 15 days. Coleman spoke of getting one if he could.

 

We have not gone into Winter quarters yet & dont know how soon we will. I think Grant contemplates some movement yet before winter sets in & perhaps we may be moved to Petersburg, but tis only surmise.

 

Do you keep any chickens this winter? I suppose the race of cats is extinct since White eye & Potty took their final departure. Do you get milk at Mrs. Bartletts now? I wish I was there to get a bowl of bread & milk.

 

we make a dish here that we call “scouse”. we fry our salt Pork & take the grease & put hard tack in it after it has been soaked in water & broke up fine & stir the whole mess togather & cook it. it takes about 15 or 20 minutes to cook. it makes a very good dish. we draw raitons every 4 days & have plenty.

 

I will send you the song of the battle of Cedar Creek. it gives a correct account of the fight.

 

It is growing dark & I will close but will write again soon & often.

 

                                                                        From Your Loving Son

                                                                        Silas Doolittle

                                                                        75^th N.Y.V.V.

                                                                        1^st Brig 2d Div 19^th Corps

                                                                        Washington, D.C.

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