Newbern May 6^th 1863

 

Jennie

            Your favor of the 18^th ult, I reced. from John after I had mailed to you on the 1^st inst. I presume you will expect me to reply, before writing again.

 

I have been assigned to the Dpt as Veterinary Surgeon of the 18^th Army Corps, commenced on the 1^st and have just succeeded in getting my arangments running smoothly.

 

You have of cours learned that John is recovering rapidly and has left the Hospital and returned to the Office.

 

speaking of exchanging Journals I hardly know how to reply / I will do almost anything for the privelage of perusing one months record by your pen but I fear that my dry nonsence would be of so little interest to you that you would cast it aside after glancing at the first page. However as it is your own proposal and I am certain that by the exchange I shall “receive mutch where little will be given” I shall be compelled to comply.

 

            The tobacco question is one of grave importance to me the merrits of which I have not time to discuss at present—

 

I know that it is a habit entirely uncalled for in most instances but I can not see / it as the worst fault among men.—I know that I am rough and unhewn, m that I have lacked the guidance of some gentle christian spiret to lead me is undoubtedly very plain to you yet when I look around upon a world of deception I feel very thankful somtimes that I am not sailing under a mask.

 

            I would not for one moment have you deprive yourself of the slightest pleasure on my account.

 

I noticed somthing in regard to trusting pen & paper &c which I shall be very uneasey over untill explained. Nothing will aford me more pleasure than to explain frankly any question which your fancy may lead you to enquire Have no fears about hurting my feelings in speaking of my faults / for I am aware that the instances are few with female correspondents who have that firm decision of mind to speak plainly of all she deems improper in a man.—

 

            Please write me again immediatly and leave no doubt uncovered.

 

            Remember me to your Sister & friends

 

Please let the address to me be simply to Newbern N. C. as it will facilitate in geting my mail

 

                                                                                    Yours as ever

                                                                                    C. M. Wyvell

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