Quartermaster's Office at

Hagerstown Md. July 15^th 1862

 

Dear Brother

                                    Yours of the 8^th came to hand a few days since. I was very glad to hear from home once more. I have not much to write at this time, as there nothing of any consequence going on at this time. I will try however and write something that will be of some interest to you.

 

I am enjoying very good health. hope you and the rest of the friends are all well. Henry went to Frederick last friday and has not got back yet. He probably will be back tomorrow. I understand that he went on to the regiment. / which is at Alexandria.

 

He no doubt will have a good time with the boys. I would like very much to see them all again myself. I get a letter from Richard Barnhill every few days. We are still in the Quartermaster's department. We expect to move to Frederick before many days. I have no late war news to write. Recent events have demonstrated the urgent necessity of increasing the Union Army, in order that the war may be vigorously prosecuted and the insurrection speedily suppressed. A large area of territory has been won by our brave soldiers; the Mississippi is again free, and under the protection of our flag; driven back and beaten in the west, the Enemy to our Constitution and government has gathered his forces at the rebel Capital in large numbers, and there makes a desperate stand. In this emergency the president of the United States has once more called upon the loyal states for more troops. And they must be furnished. / Soon can the last death blow be dealt to this abhorred rebellion, if the loyal people of the north will energeticly follow up the work they have so nobly begun. Our government, our Constitution, the successes of the past, the greatness of our Country, even our very homes, are at stake in this struggle. the brave men who have volunteered, fought and suffered, have a right to expect the aid for which the President calls. Each citizen should consider this appeal as addressed directly to him, and at once inquire what he can do for his Country, directly, if may be, and if not, indirectly, by encourageing and assisting those able and willing to take up arms and advance to the scenes of conflict. Any one can see that, even though our arms are everywhere victorious, additional troops are needed to garrison, and much more are they needed to prevent or repair reverses that may happen. And now, friends of the only free government on earth, with heart and one will prepare for the good work; and when the rich harvest with which God has blessed us shall be safely gathered, enable the executive of Indiana to announce that the call of President Lincoln has been promply answered. 

 

I would like very much to see you all again. I would be glad if Father would come down and see us. It is impossible for us to get a furlough at this time. But you need'nt be uneasy about us for we are a getting along as well as if we were at home. Give my love and respects to all enquiring friends. Please write often. I am always glad to recieve a letter from home. Excuse poor writing.

 

Write soon and give me all the news. Tell me who are enlisting &c

 

I remain as ever Your Affectionate

Brother                        W^m H. Speer

 

Sandford Speer           P.S. I send you my Card

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