Camp Bayard, Jan 15^th 1863

 

            Dear Brother:—

                                                Yesterday we came off picket, to-day we drilled in the forenoon & now this evening I will write to you. Paul & myself are enjoying good health, and the health of the reg^t is most excellent. I think our reg^t is healther than most any reg^t in the Service. The Maine 17^th is suffering very much from Diaria, from 1 to 5 die daily. The 16^th made a big strike at the batle of Fredericksburg.

It now has a great name (Bully for her). The army now remains inactive only performing picket & guard duty. 

 

It is thought that an attempt will be made soon to again cross the river. If so it will be either above or below Fredericksburg & perhaps both.

 

            The weather is remarkable warm & pleasant, we have had no snow for a long time; at home it would be Sep^t weather. The darkies are ploughing & husking their corn. That is, those that have not left for Washington.

 

            I received a letter from Horace Pennell the other day stating he had been sick but had recovered his health He writes Francis is as rugged as a pig. I think that reg^t is having a pretty easy time of it. I would like right well to see the boys in that reg^t /

 

            Do you that take the papers see any prospect of peace Are you willing to respond promptly to an other call for 3 or 4 hundred thousand men to take the place of such whose term expires this comeing Spring? This may seem a pretty direct question but I will not confine it to you alone, but the public sentiment of the north.

 

            What do you find to do without snow? and how do you get up your firewood? I expect you would rather have a foot of snow than not. And how does the babies train Be carefull & not let you passions be the ruling power, or your hands come in contact with the little creatures Napkin. Remember me to all & write often. CMChadborn /

 

Lorenzo Hooper is looking better than he did.

 

                                                Your Brother, Serg^t C M Chadb

            Brother Joe:—                                                                                                A few words to you on this sheet for paper is scarce. I suppose while I am writing you are feeding the cattle, drinking cider or rocking the baby. If I was with you I would eat the apples & drink the cider & you might be darned with the little girl But I must be brief. We have not as yet received the box you sent us but received the letter you sent when you sent the box. I can see no prospect of our being paid & my funds are again getting low. If you will take from the bank 5 dollars to send me by mail you will oblige me much. Send a Treasury Note if you please for State notes do not pass readaly here. I will write more next time. Tell the rest as well as yourself to write often.

 

Have not seen or heard from John for a long time

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