Cha^s—

 

Washington N.C.

April 6^th 1864

 

Dear Father,

                        Yours of the 29^th ult was received last night—A very quick trip. I answered Frank's letter by the last boat. His note of which you spoke has not yet come to hand. Friday's boat will probably bring it. I was very glad to hear from you once more, and the items of news you gave were very acceptable. I am not sorry that my letter to Mr. Larned threw Mr G. off his balance. The way the letter was obtained was as follows. Mr G. wished me to give my view of the thoroughness &c at the Academy, and he intended to use / it in evidence in the present controversy. I complied with his request, and sent my communication to the proper place—the Sec'y of Board of Trustees. I wrote what I believe, and if it benefitted Mr. Smith, my friend, I'm glad of it. I think you show your usual sagacity by keeping out of the matter. I shall be glad to learn of any later developments.

 

            Nothing stirring here. There is a vague hope that Burnside will come here, but it is mere conjecture. If he goes to the Army of the Potomac, Gen. H. will probably report to him. Perhaps you have noticed that Lt. Col. Wooster of 20^th has been made Col of 30^th (or 29^th). This leaves a vacancy in 20^th. I wish Gov. B. would think of his promise / to do something for me, and appoint me to said vacancy. But he is probably too busy politically. By this time he is re-elected—

 

Last week Friday an order came here for about 160 men (mentioned by name) and a lot of officers of the 21^st C.V. to "proceed to Conn on twenty days leave"—It was short notice, but they started. The same boat which took them from New Berne also took a lot from the 16^th. The 15^th had gone before. The weather was so bad they dare not go outside Hatteras, and they returned last night. The order emanated from the War Dept. and it ill behooves me to criticize it, but I will tell you privately that I consider it very unnecessary, wrong / and impolitic. I understand that the 18^th are home for the purpose of voting. This picking men to send home, when there are whole Regts of veterans here, waiting to have their furloughs, till the "exegencies of the service" will allow it, is a serious damage, rather than a help to our cause. Soldiers should vote, but they should all vote if any. (I speak of Regiments)—

 

            If you desire to send letters to Geo. enclose them to me. The weather has been cold and unpleasant for over a week. Hardly seen the sun once in that time. It is very unhealthy here in the summer—Congestive chills (said to be incurable) prevail. Several have died from them already. Hope to get out of town before hot weather comes on. Much love to Mother, and Sallie if at home

 

Y'r aff son Cha^s

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