5th New Jersey Infantry

Item LTR-362

Description

4 page original Civil War soldier's letter written in period ink and war dated.

Camp near Falmouth

March 21st 1863

Dear Sister Marianna,

You will perhaps be somewhat surprised to receive another letter so soon again. But I write, not to tell ill news. On the contrary, I am pleased to tell you that I am a Lieutenant. My promotion as Second Lieutenant of Company I arrived last night. Rest assured I was highly delighted and I know all of my dear family will rejoice also. I knew my recommendation had gone in two weeks ago. But I delayed writing of it for fear it might disappoint us. Now I am satisfied. I feel that I fill a position more equal to my capacity. Besides a great pile of “scrimors” I can rake in, I get now a heavy knapsack and gun on a march. Many other advantages I might mention, besides the honor. My commission dates from the 2nd of March. Now Sister, I must have a suit of clothes. I was measured by a tailor for a nice coat, vest and pants and would like you to order them at Owens right away. I tried on Harry’s coat and it fit me quite well. So if Mr. Owens cannot understand the measures that I send, one the same as Harry’s will do with the sleeves a little longer and the back not quite as full as his. Let Owens compare the measure I send with Harry’s. They ought to be very nearly alike since his coat so nearly fits me. His is now too long. His cost $22.00. The vest I want of the same material. A regular military vest. The pants I would like to have of the same material as Harry’s. I guess I can send to Washington for a cap. Have them made as soon as possible. For perhaps I may soon have an opportunity to send for them by someone going north on furlough. You had better consult Phillips about them and after they are made leave them at Phillips’ house in case anyone should call for them. If you have a good chance send them down. But make sure to send them with a reliable person for one of our officers lost an entire suit by sending them with another person. Corporal Fitzgibbon of our Company is going home on furlough soon and says he is willing to bring them for me. If he calls, let them come. He may not get off in a long while yet. Cannot you suggest some means to get them here? I have a source that I can use as long as I want to. I will not buy one this payday. Alby B. got his discharge and went home. Suppose you have seen or heard of him. Harry is well. Direct your letters until further orders to Lieutenant Hutchinson, Company E. I must close.

Write often to your loving brother,

Alfred

Remember Harry and I are nearly the same size now and what fits him will nearly fit me. I received a lovely letter from Emily last night. She expected that I would have received one from home before hers arrived but I did not.