Quartermaster's Office at

Hagerstown Md. July 18^th 1862

 

Dear Father & Mother,

                                                Your letter bearing date the 11^th of this month came to hand last evening, and as I have nothing very particular to do, I will at once write you an answer. I am enjoying exceedingly good health, and I hope that this may find you all in good health. Henry & I are still here in the Quartermaster's department, we have nothing scarcely to do. Henry has gone to Williamsport today to work, or rather to oversee the Negroes who does the work. He came back from the Regiment a few days ago. He found them a getting along pretty well. He said that they were a going to get paid off the day he left. He brought our descriptive list, and as soon as we come across any Paymaster, we will get ours. Last Wednesday we had one of the heaviest hail storms that I ever saw, the smallest being almost as large as partridge eggs, and the largest was as large as hen eggs. Some would measure four and five inches round them. It did a considerable amount of damage, especialy to window lights. It broke some seventeen out of one house. The old Citizens of Hagerstown say that they never saw as large hail in their life. It also knocked off a great number of apples and peaches &c The last week it has been exceedingly warm, but since the hail, it is much pleasanter. 

 

I have not much news to write at this time. No late war news. Everything appears to be at a stand, but I think it wont be long before our army will again move. Recruiting appears to be progressing very well, and ere long we will have men enough in the field to go right forward until we will have planted the "stars and stripes" over every state county & town where the "pelican" has so long waved. I think the calling of more troops is a wise course, and that it will greatly shorten the rebellion.

 

I made some enquiries at the express office here, in regard to that box, they say I will have to go to the place where I started it from. It is little doubtful whether I will ever get anything for it or not. We are still enjoying ourselves very well. Henry is in good health. Excuse this short letter. Give my love and respects to all. I would like very much to see that newcomer. I think it has got enough name. Please write often, and I will do the same

 

From your affectionate son

                                                W. H. Speer

 

P.S. It is reported and generally believed that the Rebel Jackson is again coming up the valley of Virginia.

                                                            W H Speer

W^m Speer & Family

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