Camp Fifth N.J.V.

Lower Potomac

Mar     the       19, '62

 

Dear Mother—

                                    Lately I have contented myself in thinking that one letter about a week, would be as much as I could afford to write—and I have not, perhaps averaged more than that. The clerk in this Department has been sick some three weeks, and his duties have devolved on me—it has keep me busy—nevertheless, I have found time to read profitably This division is soon to move—and lest I should not have a more favorable opportunity, I avail myself of this to return my thanks for the kindness shown me in sending so much valuable reading matter. It is of an substantial kind which increases in value the more earnestly it is considered. I am more than than thankful for it's tracts. I shall hope to enjoy the benefits and blessings of "Meditation on Prayer" 

 

I am pleased to know that one I used to meet in Sunday school has not forgotten me now that I am in the army—and I beg to assure Miss P. that it is in this new phase of life that I know and feel the value of a belief in a Saviour.—without his aid I should be a victim, doubtless, to all the evils of a soldiers life—with His aid I am kept above and safe from the vices which swallow up so many.

 

            The division had orders to move on Fredericksburg, last night—but transportation for Cavalry and artillery was wanting—and the commander of the gun boats was at washington—hence we are delayed until transportation is provided for the entire division. We shall doubtless move in two or three days. Yesterday some 40,000 men went down the river—their destination we do not know. It is now raining quite hard. Last night the regiment was turned out—were on the batallion parade ground in about 10 minutes after the call—and the ranks very full / to day all sick here sent to Gen. Hospital, near Hooker's headquarters. Everything is in readiness for a quick movement.

 

            The river has become very lively of late—since the termination of the blockade. We have intelligence of Gen. Burnsides late battle at Newbern and of the fight at Island No. 10.

 

            If I have time, will write a line in the morning.

 

Thursday Morning—

hard bread, this morning, from River Point, and can only add, further, to be remembered by all the family, to whom, individually, I send love.

 

                                                                        Very truly

                                                                                    M. S. Austin

                                                                                                Com. Serg't

                                                                                                            Fifth N.J.V.

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