Camp of the Fifth New Jersey Vols.,

Manassas Junction, Va.,

Monday, Nov. 10, 1862. Evening.

 

My Dear Father:—

                                                                                                             In movements of troops in this vicinity, there is nothing to attract special attention, since yesterday. Changes of camps take place, to secure better grounds get near to water and wood, &c. Few troops are passing up by this route. The R.R. has plenty business, apparently, in supplying the troops in advance, and those here. There is good deal speculation on the removal of M^cClellan. It is looked upon in an unfavorable light by many, and evil results are prognosticated. I cannot but think the change will be all that one could desire. We do not know why it is that it has taken place, now—as it was unexpected, and his address is not given, as yet, in explanation. It is argued that the political changes which have recently taken place, have given him the opportunity to resign a command which he has found himself unable to direct to a successful issue. I have surely felt that he would be superceded, before a successful campaign could be calculated upon. Such a change, and at such a time is not calculated to have a good effect upon the army, or the country, at its first announcement, but / Gen. Burnside cannot conduct a campaign to a much less successful issue, than the last year has proved to us, except it be he shall loose his entire army. You know I have not thought very highly of the generalship of Gen. M^cClellan, from the date of the "Battle of Williamsburg," (his first battle,) up to the present date—and I hope I may not be disappointed in the new commanders of the "Army of the Potomac" Gens. Burnside and Hooker. Sure I am, that when a battle takes place, they will be there to see.

 

            To-day has been pleasant, indeed—but the night is cool, cold, and the tent requires fire. I am sorry to hear Mrs. Hayden has so severely injured her wrist—it will be a long time before it will heal, under the best of treatment. Further than the talk in regard to change of commanders in the "Army of the Potomac," there is nothing to write about.

 

           Give love to Mother and all of the family.                            

     Very truly,

            M. S. Austin,

                Com. Serg't

                   Fifth N. J. V.

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