Camp Butler, Newport News Va Dec 23^d 1861

 

Dear Sister

                        I will now try and write a few lines. But as for news that is out of the question. We are having a stormy day the first for a long time. I have just come off guard. It was rather of an uncomfortable night to be on guard. The mail has just arrived and I received a song book from Andrew I expect. Yesterday we had a little excitement, for a change. The four companies of Max Webers (or at least) about 150 of them went out scouting and were attack at New Market bridge by 1500 rebels infantry and cavalry Including 500 Negroes they fought them untill the rebels were obliged to retreat. Our men got this side of the bridge and kept the rebels the other side. The scout / came in here to tell the General he came so fast that his horse droped just as he reached here. troops were immediately sent out but it was ended before they reached place. We were ordered to be in readiness but were not called out. Max Webers men ar German Turners and are a crack reg. they had one six men slightly wounded. They know of eight or ten rebels that they killed some blacks I have just been to see one of the dead rebels that they brought in. he was alive when they started with him. he was a sergent from Richmond as papers showed taken from his pockets. he had $19 in gold and some scrip He was an ugly looking customer about I should judge 35 years, shot through the head. they chased the 500 rebels negroes through a swamp killing some. I would have liked to have been out there. I saw by the papers yesterday that we / have taken 1300 rebels in Missouri which is a good haul. We are to be filled up immediately the companies are all raised. We have new Blue overcoats and black pants. they look first rate. You asked if I had a good time eating my thanksgiving dinner. You would have believed we did had you seen us.

 

I receive all the papers you send.

 

We had a meeting last night in our new hospital Building. I could hear all as I was on camp Guard. Dolly Bates and Oliver and wife get allong well I go down to see Oliver nearly every night. Lydia asked if I received the box from without the victuals being moulded there is no danger of that at this season of the year they will keep good. If you do not believe it try it and see.

 

You asked if our houses were comfortable they are, but we have had no fire in ours yet. there are only two sick ones in the company. You asked if Dolly / talked as fast as ever. I think that she does. We are all well there is nothing to write. I sent a box home a few days ago. You may direct your letters to

 

—Com E 29^th Mass Reg Newport News Va

Care of Capt L H Doten I will close

Give my respects to all. Write soon

it is salt horse time and I must quit.

 

                        From your Affectionate

                                    Brother Samuel

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