Stafford Court House V^a

Feb 7^th 1863

 

Dear Father—

                        I am in receipt of two letters from you, both by today's mail—one bearing date Jan. 26^th and the other Feb 2^nd. The former was missent and returned to Washington. It seemed quite natural to hear from you again, and I hope we shall have no more interruptions. Before this reaches you, Sallie and Mother should each receive a letter from me. I wrote them concerning my appetite, which is in a flourishing condition. Shall expect to get a substantial answer shortly. Nothing of special importance has transpired since my last. You ask how I like my Company, and I answer, as well as any in the regiment, but this work is hardly my style, and I am not fascinated with it. Your other question—whether my Company like me, is not so easily answered. So far, I have not observed that they bear / me any ill will, and I don't see why we may not get along comfortably. My 1^st Lieut is very much more docile than I anticipated. I am going to get him a short furlough to go home and settle some business. To-day I am Officer of the Day, which means that I must wear my sword and sash all day, the latter over my right shoulder and across my breast, attend to the order and cleanliness of camp, and be present at the felling of every tree. One of our officers, Capt. Smith of Hartford was instantly killed by the falling of a tree a few days since—hence the precaution now exercised. I am to go the Grand Rounds after twelve to-night, and see that the guard are vigilant. You say you were a little apprehensive that I had suffered from cold & bad weather. Well, considering the fact that I was on Picket that coldest day, and that my tent is not perfectly water-tight, I think I may consider myself fortunate in getting off with nothing but a moderate sore-throat. We have had more snow here, but warmer weather is fast carrying it away, and the roads are as bad as ever. How did you suppose I / was to comply with the request in the circular you enclosed to me? I suppose I might have the plate taken at Baltimore, sent on, but on the whole I guess I'll wait till Presentation Day, or Commencement when I hope to be with my class. I hear quite frequently from New Haven, and take much pleasure in keeping up my College friendships. Have heard nothing from Ned. Wrote a few days since and expect an answer soon. I saw a Captain in the 16^th Conn. who told me they called their Brigade Commander "General" already. I suppose he is in effect such. It is possible that he is now in Washington. If so, the probability is that the first I hear from him will be in the shape of an order dated "Secy of War's Office" and detailing me as A.A.G. I have told the young man that I waited his command

 

            You in all probability know as much about the Army of the Potomac as I could tell you. If not, you are in a lamentable state of ignorance. This much I know, that our Artillery cannot be moved through this mud, and that Gen Hooker will not advance without it. The change of commanders does not affect the / Army at all, nor do I think anything could happen strange enough to disturb its systematic indifference. The future of this part of our land forces is dark enough. They have learned to labor and to wait, especially the latter. I have been writing a good deal to-day, and, my cracker-box having no back, my back is tired. My table is one of my Company Books as held upon my knees—quite fashionable among ladies, but awkward enough for me.

 

            With much love to Mother, Sallie & Theo.

I remain

            Your aff son,

                                    Charlie

 

Some Harpers, Continentals & newspapers would be acceptable. I have the Atlantics—

                                                                                                                                    C.

SOURCES