22nd Wisconsin Infantry

Item LTR-10047

Description

Original Civil War soldier's letter. 4 pages, written in period ink.


Fort Overall
10 o’clock at night

February 4, 1864

Mother and Father,

Well, I have been readying newspapers laying around and killing mice tonight and the latter employment caused my mind to revert to the times I used to have at home, sometimes killing mice when the idea suggested itself to me that I had better scribble a few words for the remaining inmates of that home. Well, now it is darned late so you see I can’t say much, only to say that I am still well in the very best degree. We still have very pleasant weather though for the few last days it has been somewhat cooler and tonight looks like rain.

Important and encouraging news is being heard from different departments of the army. Of desertions on a large scale in the rebel army; of mutinies, the most important one at Mobile; and grand victories of our forces. All of which betokens a speedy close of the war. It is a fact beyond a doubt that the majority of the men in the rebel army are fast seeing their mistake and would gladly give up if they could, as many of them are doing.

A rumor is afloat now that the matter is being discussed at Richmond to the effect that if the president would extend his amnesty proclamation to the officers and leaders alike, they would lay down their arms and return to the Union. I can’t say how true this is. But I don’t believe it. Neither do I care much. For rather than to see the hellish leaders of this rebellion receive one iota of pardon, or to have them escape a particle of the punishment they so justly merit, rather than that, I would see this war continue five years yet. I feel perfectly willing to see all pardoned that comes within the scope of the President’s Proclamation and no further.

Tis thought some that a war with France is eminent. A thing that is not to be devoutly wished for. But if it must be, let it come. I don’t know that we will ever be better prepared than now.

Yesterday, our regiment received orders to go to Nashville. But has been countermanded again. Perhaps though, we may go yet. I think, however, that we will soon be on the move. Tis hard telling where we will turn up next.

I hear that the weather is not as cold now in the North. I hope that is so. I sent a picture about two weeks ago. Did you get it? I hope there will be no further trouble about that money. Let me know when you get it.

Good night.

John R. Siperly