Camp of 40^th Reg’t N.Y.V.

                                                                                    N^r. Catlette Station Oct. 22^nd 1863

 

Dear Brother Garret

                                    Your kind letter dated Oct. 8^th came duly to hand, also the paper containing the Carte de Visites, and I assure you I feel very greatful for the favors you have done me. I think those cards are very good but I must confess I had forgotten about the stripes and cheese knife. I was glad to hear that you were all as well as usual. Wilson and myself are quite well, but feel somewhat worn down by the heavy marching since we left Culpepper. I tell you we had it pretty hard on this last march for we have had to carry eight days rations in our Knapsack.

 

I tell you we are some tired after marching twenty mile a day. I cannot / write you much now for it is late and I am on Gaurd at Hd. Qtrs. and have left the Gaurd in charge of the Corporal while I write you this note. We had a brisk skirmish on the 13^th inst. we lost in our Regiment one killed and five wounded.

 

I wish you would send me a watch key as I have lost mine. I send enclosed one dollar I want a few more stamps, and four or five one cent stamps for papers. I suppose you think me a great Bother, but I cant help it Garret I may return the favors some day.

 

We have nothing now but Hard Tack Pork & Coffee. Things begin to look as if we should remain here for a few days. We were as far back as Fairfax Station. The Rebels have completely destroyed the Rail Road all the way below Bristow Station, Burned all the Bridges, sleepers, and bent the Rails. /

 

The string for my watch has not come to hand, but I supose it is coming. Be assured of our Love, and remember us kindly to all our friends.

 

                                                                        Your Brother

                                                                                    Jonathan Sproul

                                                                                    Co. “C” 40^th Reg’t N.Y.V.

                                                                                    1^st Division 3^rd A. Corps.

                                                                                                Washington D.C.

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