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Regiment: 5th Michigan Cavalry
Battles Mentioned:
Historical Figures:
Picket Reserve 5” + 6” Mich Cav.
4 Miles from Fairfax C.H.
May 7 1863
My Darling Wife.
I am afraid you will be without
a little for a few day. We went out on picket day
before yesterday and I left a letter to be mailed but
it was not forwarded so I will send two to day.
I stood picketing first rate. It rained all the time
we were out (24 hours) but I came into camp
and staid over night last night or yesterday after
noon we came in and last night we had two
alarms and were ordered to saddle our horses
and sleep on our arms It was all foolishness the
alarm was occasioned by a vedette firing on
a loose horse If does no hurt to get the boys up
but it makes them wrathy after they are settled down
for a good nights sleep. We have lots of fun on
picket You would have laughed yesterday morn-
ing to have seen LaValley catch a cow and at-
tempt to draw some milk the cow was
[ ? ]
I guess as she would not stand. Pete, got her by the
narrative and tried to steer her but after hold-
ing on to her rudder for a quarter of a mile he
had to let her go. I guess you cant see the joke
but it is really amusing.
To day I am Officer of the day as I happen
to be in command of the Co. the duties are not
very onerous however it has been raining for three
days but is going to clear off today.
Capt Gray is into the Reserve Camp (back 4
miles) I have not seen him yet his wife is with
him. I will try and see him and find out about
Your coming down. There is as report that we have
thirty days more picket duty to do. I cant say for
Certain I like picket duty so far first rate.
I have recd no letters from home, except yours, and your last
was dated 27” April 10 days since
I must close as Frazer is going to camp and
is waiting for my letter write often dear and
I hope it will be so you can come down a
while I am feeling first rate.
With much love. Remain
Your Devoted
Egbert
[On Envelope:]
Mrs. Egbert B. Clark
Flint
Genesee Co Michigan
