137th Pennsylvania Infantry

Item LTR-6470

Description

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


Camp Bossert
Belle Plains, VA

March 18th 1863


Dear Mother,

Colonel Bossert has seen fit to ask to be relieved of the command of the hundred and
thirty-seventh regiment and started for home today. Captain Quay sent his Turich with him because he had too much luggage for the late transportation order of General Hooker. I sent that pillow case and my Sateen coat and some shirts that are pretty dirty. I have not worn them any since I was at home the first time. Colonel Bossert’s reason for resigning is that his bail is likely to suffer on account of his absence. You know he is Register and Recorder of our bounty. I was sorry to see him go more than because our time is so short now.

He got to be popular with the regiment towards the last of his administration. He made us a nice letter speech. And while making it, among other things, he said that his business called him away but his heart was with us. Along came Clint Kessinger, whispering that the colonel’s heart was with us but his d__n cowardly legs wouldn’t let him stay. However, I don’t think he went home because he was afraid of a fight. But he ought not to have resigned just now.

I had a letter from Matt last night. Mary was still there, were all well. I suppose you are ploughing by this time. The mud here is drying fast. I expect to have a “Inward Movement” soon. I doubt we much how soon though. I am not fond of walking. If I come to the army again, I want to come on horseback.

I will have to close. The mail is going out. I am healthier than I was. The boys are able to ride from the valley.

Write soon to your,

Affectionate Son,

Jim

Address: Company E, 137th Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers
3rd Brigade, 1st Division, 1st Army Corps
Washington, DC