Letter dated 24 December 1864, from Silas Doolittle, 75^th New York State Volunteer Infantry

 

                                                            Camp Russell, Va.

                                                            Dec. 24^th, 1864

 

Dear Sister,

I have filled up the other sheet with one nonsense and another, so thought I would write some more on this. There was quite a large mail come in camp last night, but the expected letter from you did not arrive, but I received one from Miss Matilda Spencer, which made up in part for the one I expected from you. Jack Grant was over here a little while ago—he wished to be remembered to you. He looks tougher than when he first come from home.

 

It is very pleasent this morning & will probably be muddy enough before night. I must answer Miss Spencers letter this afternoon.

 

We are going to have a “regular winder” in our shanty, consisting of one pane of glass—our breed is slowly but surely fading away. I will wait till to night & then finish this—perhaps your letter will come before night. Au revoir.

 

Dec. 25 (12.M.)

 

A merry Christmas to you, Dear Sister. There is nothing going on in Camp. it is a dull day with us. the letter has not arrived yet. this ink is so sticky it is good for nothing & dont know as you can read this at all.

 

Dec. 26^th 2 P.M.

 

Christmas passed off quietly with the exceptions of a few drunken fellows. The promised letter has not come yet, but have not given up all hopes yet. I believe I will wind up this, for it has grown to an unusual length. I have just been looking it over & am almost ashamed to send it. there is so much foolishness in it. I wish you would send me your Photograph, if you have any. Please write soon & often.

 

Your Loving Brother

Silas Doolittle

Co “A” 75 N.Y.V.B.

1^st Brig 2d Div 19^th A.C.

Washington, D.C.

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