Cincinnati April 18.1862

 

Dear Father

                        I arrived here by Hospital Boat Magnolia about 9 a.m. having had a very pleasant trip from Pittsburg landing Starting on Monday last. The Steamer Magnolia was sent out by the state of Ohio to bring in the wounded Ohioans She was well equipped had good medical attendance and quarters fitted up very nicely for the wounded, in fact a large floating hospital.

 

I received every attention that could be afforded and had my shattered arm properly cared for. Shortly after my arrival here I met John Newton and am now stopping with him at his house where I w shall be perfectly comfortable / and well attended to. It will take at least six weeks to heal my arm and whether I shall remain here or endeavor to travel in cars home is a question to be settled in the future.

 

            I don’t know whether I stated in my last the nature of my wound A rebel rifle ball passed through my left arm fracturing the middle third of the radius bone. The ball passed through and out carrying pieces of my coat and shirt sleaves with it into the wound.

 

            I am doing exceedingly well have a very good surgeon and will without doubt recover the use of my arm. It is quite painful but am so much accustomed to the feeling by this time that I dont mind it Sleep soundly and have a good appetite and am on a very quiet street /

 

            You need not feel at all uneasy about me. I will write you in a few days and hope to hear from you soon Direct to me

Care of “Evans & Co. Bankers”

 

            Mr Newton kindly write this at my dictation. Love to Mother and all

 

                                                                                                Yours affectionately

                                                                                                                                    John

 

            John Newton sends his respects and assures you that he is very glad to be of service to your son.

 

            John M^cC is in very good spirits and is excellent company. Keeps my wife laughing nearly all the time and I really am very glad to have him here and doing so well. My wife joins me in well wishes for you and yours

 

                                                                                    John M Newton /

 

 

[overleaf, in another hand]

John M^cConihe

Cincinnati O.

April 18/62

            /22

Account of the

boat that brt.

J McC from Shiloh

to Cin^t of John

Newton about J Mc

C.

SOURCES