| 1865-06-23 | Camp near Alexandria, Va. |
| Camp 45th P.V.V. Near Alexandria, Va. June 23rd 1865 Dear Parents Your most welcome letter of the 16th inst came to hand this evening and I hasten to answer. I thought when Miles went home I should be home almost as soon as he would, but we are destined to disappointments in this world. The order was for all prisoners to be mustered out of service, but before our miserable mustering Officers got ready to muster us out the order was countermanded, consequently we have to remain. How long I do not know but hope not long for I am tired of this kind of life. I did think of trying to get a furlough but have given up that idea. I shall not try for a furlough until the last of August or the first of Sept. It is possible that we may get out of service this fall, but I doubt it. There is no news of importance, nothing going on in camp but the same dull routine of every day camp life and this you must know is dreary indeed. I can hardly contain myself at times when I get to thinking of home and the work to be done there and nobody to do it but you, but you must not work as hard as you did last summer. Let the work go undone. I wish we could get our pay, but I think probably we will get it soon after next muster which is close at hand, the last day of this month. I should be glad to be at home to enjoy your celebration, but I think our fourth will be a dull one here for all that will be worth enjoying. There will probably be enough fireworks and drunkenness going on, but I cannot enjoy myself in that way. There is to be a grand time at Gettysburg. I hear that Pennsylvania is to make a grand display. All of Penna. troops are to turn in their battle flags, but I think our will not be there nor do I want it there. For my part let the army of the Potomac have the praise due them. We are satisfied to stand as spectators as the 9th AC have never done much service since the war commenced. We are conscious of having rendered good service to our Country and a good clear conscience is enough praise for us, but I must bring my letter to a close hoping to hear from you again soon. My respects to all enquiring friends. I wish to answer two of Annie's letters this evening and I shall be obliged to write short letters. Yours Ever Affectionately J.D. Strait Note: Absent on furlough when Co I was mustered out July 17, 1865. | |