Camp near Bell-Plain Va.

February 9^th 1863

 

Dear Brother,

          Your's of the 23^d of last month came to hand a few days since, and I will now write a few lines in answer to it. I was glad to hear that you were all well. I hope that this short letter may find you still in the enjoyment of health. Henry and I are both in excellent health at this time.

 

Gossett, Faucett & Jake Miller arrived here last evening about dark. We were glad to see them, as we always are to see any hoosier who chances to come down this way. / They intend to remain here several days.

 

I have nothing of much importance to write, everything appears to be quiet in the Army of the Potomic, excepting during the last few days the ninth Army Corps and some of the Pennsylvania Reserves have been taking transports. Where their destination is is more than I can tell. I think in all probability we will be privileged to remain here this winter. The health of our Regiment is very good at this time, there being only three sick at our Regimental Hospital, and they are / able to up and about. I am sorry to hear of so much disturbance arising all over Hoosier. I fear it will result in something mean. Some of you may think that our patriotism is nearly played out: let me say this is all a mistake. Our patriotism is now increasing every day. We feel more like fighting now than ever. And should there any difficulties of a serious nature result in Indiana from these secret meetings, and should there be a young war in Indiana, the old Seventh wants to be, and declares that she will, go home to fight. / Oh how we would like to be there. I think we would give some of those southern sympathizers something they need, and ought to have. Do not think that the army is demoralized, do not think that we are cowed down and are willing to acknowledge the "Southern Confederacy" far from it. But we are still willing to fight for our Country & our country's rights. Cap. Miller Trent Abrams & the rest of Co I are in good health and fine spirits.

W. H. Speer

 

            Please send me some postage stamps in your next.

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