Camp Fifth New Jersey Infantry

Near Falmouth, Va.,

April 24, 1863

 

My Dear Mother—

 

                                    I had a pleasant passage back to camp, without exception. It commenced to rain, while in Washington, and by the time I reached Acquia Creek, was fairly in the storm, which appeared to be comeing up the river. From Storeman's Station I found transportation to Brigade Hd. Qtrs.—so that the rain did not interfere with my journey in the least.

 

            I had anticipated a movement, but the storm, doubtless, prevented, so I was saved much trouble, in not having to look up the regiment's location.

 

            We are under the same "order" as to the movement—but it cannot take place for three or four days, as rain / fell so copiously last night on the evening of 22^d and yesterday as to have, of necessity, made all roads and streams impassible. Everything appears to be in readiness—the troops go in tight order, having turned in to the Q.M. all extras, such as blankets, leggins, &c., and will carry 8 days' provision. My supposition is that the army will march rapidly to the rear of the rebel lines, and engage them, if possible, before they get away to Richmond.

 

            The news of yesterday and to-day is quite cheering. The re-capture of the "Queen of the West" is very satisfactory. I was just in time for the Paymaster, and forward in this letter $40.00. You will please amply reimburse for money loaned, and items of expense, (collars, suspenders, badges, sausage) &c. I believe it would be well to forward me 15^lbs of (uncooked) Sausage (same kind that I brought) by Express. I cannot get any thing here equal to it, at double the cost. If the Ex. Co. will forward it promptly / I shall be able to get it before we move. It will not spoil, (uncooked) even should it be delayed.

 

            I feel that my visit was too brief to be satisfactory to any one—especially myself—but I enjoyed it, nevertheless, and am more than thankful that it occurred just at such a time—for I have often desired, and prayed that I might be present during a communion season—it cannot occur again for many long months—perhaps never. This is possible,—though I have never doubted that my God would save me from the death of a battle-field, and from harm—for which I ever pray. I say I ought not to doubt or waver in my faith, as I have the best evidence of God's goodness and care for his creatures, in my most remarkable preservation, in health, and from the dangers which have surrounded me, for the entire time I have been in the service. I enter upon all duties in the strong belief / God guides ever, and for His own honor and glory.

 

            Remember me to Mrs. Fish, and thank her for the slippers.

 

            John will please convey my compliments to Miss Potts, and thank her for her kindness in wishing me a safe return. J. will do me the kindness to assure Miss P. of the pleasure I enjoyed in my recent visit. My short stay and bad weather must be an apology for failing to call on Mrs. Parker.

 

            I send love to all in the family and most sincerely thank each individual for their host of favors, and marked kindness.

 

            God have each of you in his holy keeping

 

                                                            Sincerely and affectionately

                                                                        Your son,

                                                                        M. S. Austin,

                                                                                    2d Lieut. 5^th N. J. Vols.

 

Send me $1.00 in Postage Stamps

                                                M. S. Austin

 

[upside down]

E S Austin

Apl 24.63

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