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Regiment: 1st U.S. Volunteers Sharpshooters
Battles Mentioned:
Historical Figures:
Camp near Sharpsburg Md.
Oct. 24th 1862
My Own Mary.
Time in its
noiseless flight has brought Octo-
ber almost to a close and the
“chill bleak winds of November.”
will soon be our boon compan-
ions. Old crazy winter is close
upon us. and then the “Poor
Soldier” must look out for
warm clothing.
Yesterday we were told to be
ready to “March” this morning.
but we’ll not go for some time
to come. I see the press are
demanding a forward movement
before cold weather blocks us
in. The whole North I believe
are asking the same thing. but
they will ask in vain. the best
season for activity is fast passing
away. Why has the Great Power
which rules this Universe decreed
that the fairest land of all
this Earth should be so desolated.
The track of an Army like ours
is like the track of a plague.
“God save the Country.” was never
more appropriate than now.
Newell Hinman
joined the Co. a day or two
since. He told me of seeing Aunt
Emily. he has been sick a long
while. said he would have called
on you if he had had time. as
soon as he got well enough to travel
he had to start for his Regt.
Your letters of Oct. 12th & 14th were
received a day or two since. I
am expecting more by next
mail. We have not been
paid yet and the talk is we will
not be until next month. When
we get four months pay. I want
my money but will take it
when I can get it. Nights are
coolish and for a few days over-
coats have not been bad to take
in the day time. I do hope
I’ll get your picture by next
mail and the first Artist I
find shall have a job.
Yours Always.
Gardner
[On Envelope:]
Miss Mary J. Baxter
Grand Rapids
(Box 450) Michigan
