Camp near Falmouth Va.

May 31^st 1863.

 

Dear Father & Mother,

Yours of the 22^nd is now before me, and I will at once endeavor to answer it. I was glad to hear that you were in good health. Very sorry to hear of the illness of Uncle Joel, and Catharine. But I hope that when this reaches you it may find you and those who are now sick in good health. I hav'nt much to write this time. Everything appears to be quiet & still.

 

            Our Regiment was paid off yesterday (two months pay) I was thinking of sending ten or fifteen / dollars home, and then I concluded that I would'nt send any this pay-day.

 

           A soldier gets tired of crackers & coffee, and he must needs have a little money once in a while, to buy apples, cakes, pies, oranges, lemons, cigars &c, &c.

 

            All of which our Sutlers have, and though we have to pay a big price, yet it appears as though we could'nt do without them sometimes. But I will try and not spend my money foolishly.

 

            A day or so ago, we were under marching orders, but I guess that they have been countermanded, and all is calm again. / When marching orders are talked of, every one is guessing where we are to go to. Some say one place & some say another.

 

Our Division is not near so large as it was a few weeks ago. Several of the Regiments (whose time of service has expired) have gone home, and others are making preperations to go soon.

 

            The weather is quite warm. We were all glad to hear of the cheering news from the south-west. I hope Grant will succeed in capturing the whole Rebel force at Vicksburg.

 

Nothing new going on in the "Army of the Potomac". 

 

I went and had my picture taken today, but it is such a poor one, I am almost ashamed to send it home. The fellow who took it knew but little about his business. I believe however that I will send it anyhow. But I think it a very poor one. It cost me one dollar, just as it is. Henry rec^d a paper yesterday with eight stamps in it. I suppose it was from you. Health is generally very good. Boys are all in good spirits. We are enjoying ourselves very well.

 

From your Son

Harry.

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