| 1862-12-08 | Camp opposite Fredericksburg, Va. |
| Camp opposite Fredericksburg, Va. Dec 8th 1862 Dear Parents This pleasant morning finds me again trying to write a few lines to you to let you know I am getting along well as usual though I find it rather cold weather for the tents we have to live in, though there are 5 of us who get along very comfortable. We have built us a log shanty and neat little fireplace of sod. It makes a cozey little place. I think if the soldiers all get home they will know how to make themselves comfortable if the service don't get them in the notion that idleness is luxury. Those stamps you sent me came very acceptable and the paper especially for there is no suttler here at present that has any paper or stationery of any kind. Perhaps you think I have been rather negligent for I have rec'd two letters from you since I have written but I have been very busy so I think I am excusable. I have sent you $30.00 by check to Sherwood. I did not get any money from Shelly this pay day but you can do with what money I send home as you like for if I ever get home, what is laid out on the farm will be better than money and what you pay on debts stops interest but if I should get any from the other boys you may put it out at interest if you can get the percent you spoke of with real estate as security for I only have to pay him 6 percent and have it for two years. If you want to use it do so for it is as cheap as you can get money at home and probably cheaper. I do not know as I have anything of importance to communicate at present. Our troops are all lying quiet, that is, this part of the army but I saw a notice of the fleet at Fortress Monroe sailing with sealed orders. Some think that there is an expedition fitting out to try Richmond while we are lying here to draw the attention of the enemy but there is no knowing of a surety what is going on. The papers say that the Rebels are in for an amnesty to allow them a chance to elect Congressmen and so return to the Union but I hope it will be settled by spring at least so that I can be at home next summer, if possible, and I should not object this winter. I have not time or I would write a longer letter this time. I do not feel like writing much either. I did not think Mother had forgotten me the reason of her not writing, but I wish she would write more often than she does but I must close this time. This from your Affectionate Son. J .D. Strait | |