27th Massachusetts Infantry - Wounded at Drewry's Bluff & Petersburg

Item LTR-5638

Description

Original Civil War soldier's letter. 3 pages written in period ink.

Camp Werner, New Bern
June 1st [1862]

Dear Sister Lucy,

Is it possible Lucy that you have been deranged for long a time! Why I am surprised! Have you performed your duties in school while in the miraculous state it must have been a talk for you even with fifteen schoolers but we will not bother with that.

I have no news to write you but will strike out something but perhaps not very interesting. First, we have again moved back to the city to our old camp and once more pleasantly situation. Second, we are all in good spirits and feel well with the exception of Henry. He is rather off the hook and has been since we moved from Batchelor’s Creek. I have just been out and called the roll which is a part of my duties in the company. Tomorrow we have a brigade drill and oh I dread it. It is so very, very warm here. Lucy, you know nothing of warm weather. Mosquitoes, wood ticks, lizards and numerous reptiles that North Carolina is famous of.

Three Cheers! What is it. Corinth is taken, Johnson is bagged with all his forces. So much nearer home but we are a great way from home yet. Although I still think we will all be at home next fall if we live. But if they die off every day, as they have today, we shall have no regiment. There was three who died today. One of the number was drowned about two hours ago and it makes me feel so fidgety. I cannot write. My hand trembles like a willow leaf. And I guess you would know it if I did not say anything about it. Of late, I have been very nervous. The cause I do not know. Without it is eating. Hard crackers, yes, yes! If we were at home tonight, selection would be made of course as to what might we would eat. I received a letter from Ema this morning stating that her health has greatly improved. Also that she is enjoying herself finally. I am glad of it. I received six letters this morning and some bills, also a ball ticket of the doings in Greenville, NC. I suppose that they had a great time all around. But the four soldiers have better times coming. Tell the folks that we are all in good spirits. Say nothing about myself or Henry. Lucy, I have no news to write whatsoever. Therefore, I will close bidding you all good night. Hoping to see you soon. Much love to all. Accept a share for yourself. The best wishes. As ever, you dear brother. Write soon all the news.

Orderly S. P. Cooley