Burge, Caroden S. – July 9, 1861

Michigan Civil War Collection


Click here for this soldier’s biography: https://micivilwar.com/authors/burge-caroden-s/
Regiment: 2nd Michigan Infantry Battles Mentioned: Historical Figures: Camp Scott, July 9, 1861 Dear Mother: I got a letter from Lucy yesterday. I was glad indeed to hear from home. But why don’t I get a letter from you? You inquired whether I wanted any money. We have not rec’d a cent of pay, and throug some mistake or negligence it is rather probable that we shall not get any for two months to come. I have not had a cent for two or three weeks. If you send me any you had better send gold, as we can not pass bills here, and have to pay at banks from 5 to 15 percent discount on all bills. I had to pay 10 percent on the State Bank of Ind. We have orders to march into Virginia this afternoon, to what place we do not know. Battles are re- curring and probably will occur almost every day (i.e. slight skir mishes). It is dreadful hot here to day. It fairly fries the grease right out of us sitting still in our tents. On this acco count I don’t feel a bit like writing. Our fare is rather dry, but we have enough such as it is. We have not had all that is in our rations lately. If those who have money can get along for they can buy of the women who are round with pies, cakes &c. But my health contines good. There is a number of our company sick, but most of them are getting better. Tell Lucy that Mr. Woodward has been quite sick for two or three weeks. He is better, but does not get better very fast, since he can not bear to eat any thing that we have. I would tell you the news, but the fact is I haven’t got any news to tell you. The papers he so that we soldiers don’t pretend to believe what we read in them. It is so hot and I feel so lazy that you must excuse me for writing a short letter this time. I will try and do better next. Tell Lucy I will answer hers after I get into Virginia. Write soon and often. Tell Edwin that I see Harry every day He is rough and hearty. The boys like him well, better then they like the capt. or first Lieut. Your Son Caroden