32nd Massachusetts Infantry

Item LTR-8344

Description

Original Civil War soldier's letter. 2 pages, written in period ink.


Headquarters Battalion
32nd Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry
Liberty, Virginia

January 27, 1864

My Own Dear Wife,

If it is as beautiful weather at home, as here, sure by the furloughed soldiers must be at the height of enjoyment. I am sitting with door open and without fire. Tis like the pleasant days of April. Wouldn’t I like to be at home. I have as yet heard nothing from the officers of the regiment. It is rather cutting to be left here and not even noticed by letter. Colonel Guiney of the 9th Massachusetts, who commands the brigade, now has just been here. In conversation, he says you have an import post here. I feel it is so and would been glad for someone else to been left to command it. Yesterday, 5 new recruits came from Boston and just at night, 5 men came from General Hospital. If it increases at that rate, I shall have the largest part of the regiment here. I wrote Colonel Prescott last night and told him I felt inferred by his remarks as reported in Boston Journal, calling us “Chaff”. Another paper said we were left here in charge of contrabands (no but I would as the commands of contrabands, as white) I did not intend to notice the slander of a paper (Journal) directed to General Sykes (Corps Commander) accidently came to these headquarters with an endorsement of Colonel Prescott’s compliments that makes him responsible for the Journal’s report and though I don’t believe he meant it, and sending a copy of the paper with his compliments to General Sykes is not to be held responsible. “Chaff” indeed. If so, we ought to be elsewhere than here. And we being it. I don’t know as one could compute the value of wheat. Some of the officers of this brigade are to have a “hoop” Friday night at a house close by us. I have an invitation but would rather not go. I fear there will be liquor. I may think it will be best and proper to go awhile. If the affair is not marred by whiskey, it will no doubt be a very pleasant time. They propose an oyster supper, dancing, music, etc.. Some 8 or 10 officers, wives are to be there and probably some few of the women around here. I would like such a time at home with members of the “surprise circle”. Leyer comes regular and I am real glad of it. Did you receive notice what Fanny Fern said about babies in last one? It made me think of you and I endorse and appreciate (I think) what she said. Is that idea of having may speak those verses. And belle and others sing them to be carried out. If so, why not surprise her. Try not letting him know of it til he hears her speak. How about the moon of green cheese? I expect to have some pies when the sutler comes out again. His wife is to make me some. The Sutler has his tent here all the time and men to attend to it whilst he goes into Washington and back most every week. I perfectly long for some homemade pies. And I think now I could eat cake. When I send word, you can forward a box. Not before. Remember me with love to all. With affectionate love and kisses to the dear one. May must begin now to be sisterly and lady like. I would like to get word tomorrow mail how the regiment is getting along.

As ever thine,

Josiah