Camp near Bell Plain Va

April 12. 1863

 

            Dear Sister

                                    I received your letter of the 8 of March on the 6 of April and was very glad to hear from you all that you was all well I am happy to say to you that I am enjoying good health you must excuse me for not riting to you before I have been so buisey we have enspections nearley every day I think they are going make a move soon last thirsday the 9 we was reviewed by the present Lincolen and Gen Hooker the whole Devision was out i am in Wadsworth Devision and third brigade I like soldiering very well altho it is a dogs life to live when a man gets sick down here they dont maney get wel there was a young from your place died in the hospital last night and his mother just got there in time to see him before he died she took him home this morning it was van Broley he was a very nice young man he died quite sudent you said in your letter that Henry talked of going to ware tel him that he had better stay at home if he knows when he is well of for carying napsack box and gun is harder work than shoe making my time will be out in six weeks and then I will return home if my life is spared ask henry how much he will charge me for a pare of fine calfscin boots I dont know wether I will folow my trade when I return home what kind of a shop is ther in Rockehil I gues I will go home and help pap next somer /

 

now I must close You must excuse my bad hand riting for I was in a hury I have to go out on dresperade give my love to George and Henry and keep a portion for yourself

 

write soon and send me all the nuse you can tel george to rite

 

this is from your

Brother John K Van Pelt

SOURCES