5 Jan 1865 Newport News, Virginia 6-Page Soldier\'s Letter
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5 Jan 1865 Newport News, Virginia 6-Page Soldier\'s Letter:
$40.99
9 P.M.
Newport News, Va
Jany 5th, 1862
My dear friend Fred,
I have written to you twice but as yet received no reply to either. Why is it?
Horton left us this afternoon. Would have sent you a few lines but was unable owing to my endeavors to find General M. whom I wished to sign and approve those requisitions. As it was I was compelled to ask the P.M.to detain the boat beyond the usual hour of starting otherwise they could not have been forwarded today.
I hope you may succeed in obtaining the muskets also the signed number of men as soon as possible. Then you can return to us once more. Are you going to absent yourself for six months? Have you seen Quartermaster Walinsky? Ned is now acting in his place. Charlie is getting along splendidly to which Horton can testify. He would make an excellent Captain, now in the absence of H. commands Company D.
The Munster Rolls, monthly returns etc. were forwarded in due time the latter I had the pleasure of signing first carefully examining same with the assistance of Briscoe whom I should like much to have in the office in preference to the present incumbant. The Colonel appointed me Acting Adjutant on the 20th, since I have endeavored to fill the station to my own satisfaction strictly complying with the regulations. I like the position very much and in time think I can manage things somewhat different than heretofore. Already made some changes in Guard Mounting.
Saw Captain Christenson who stated that he would soon be appointed aid to General Wool then of course leave the regiment. We have to furnish daily two Lieutenants for Guard making the duties rather severe for them particularly as there are existing vacancies which I trust you will fill shortly with men of the night stirrup. Your recruits are all fine men. The drummer boy who arrived today with three men, one with his wife has been assigned to Company F, the regiment furnishing him quarters in his own apartment. Is a smart little fellow and will be well taken care of.
We have heard nothing of Scott. Was noted on the Roll as being absent without leave since the 19th of November last. Think he will never turn up. Here again too many enquires made. Some very anxious ones.
Christmas and New Year passed off very quietly. Company G only indulging in a little fire fight. Need a commanding officer badly. Page the only one. We ensigns of the mess thanks to Jack’s kind friends lived for one week upon turkey boiled and baked for a change. Oh yes, we had ---- also. I really felt bad upon offerding H. goodbye today. Must acknowledge I felt a little home sick but only a little. Wish to be in New York about February or March.
In relation to the amount I owe you my dear friend, rest assured it has not been forgotten. Will remit some as soon as the paymaster arrives. Would have done so earlier but you know I told you of a note I had given a certain party to equip myself etc.
The men are now all housed. Jack’s quarters now completed. Much afraid we will see no active service this winter. I am studying like a Turk. The general had Brigade drills now requiring me to be very active in placing my guides etc. The boys say my voice has improved wonderfully. All I can say for myself that I am stout, healthy and happy. Thanks to the good living, free conscience etc.
There are three young ladies now at Webster’s Hotel of whom Horton can tell you all about. As for me, have many doubts as to them and think it would require more money than I can command to go “in” more. One quite pretty. Plays and sings beautifully. Spent one evening there. Had a dance and enjoyed myself much.
In conclusion, my dear fellow I trust to have a few lines from yourself as early as possible. The boys - Jack, Ned and Charlie desire to be remembered, the A.Q.M. fills his station with dignity. My best love to Henry and all enquiring friends, a full share for yourself and believe me ever to be
Your sincere friend,
Wm Wallace
Acting Adjutant
of the Bully First
Suppose ere this you have seen William. He has your keys etc. Anything I can do for you here, please command me. Remember me to Walinsky if you see him again.
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