Augusta County: Benjamin Franklin Cochran to His
Mother, May 30, 1861
Summary:
Cochran provides a general update on camp life and apologizes to his mother for
buying a pistol.
Mother
May the 30 1861
Harpers Ferry
Dear Mother
Your letter of the 23d came to hand. I am very sorry that I bought a pistol but I was forced to buy one because I had to go on picket guard and the men on picket. When two were resting one was going and they have at night riding by bushes have been fired upon by an unseen foe last night the officer of the night whilst going the rounds was fired at but not hurt.
The things that are not in the pistol case I took [added: out] the provision that you were going to send down. you can send it to the Harper's Ferry and I wish you would get me some coloured stuff and make me two shirts and pack them in the box with the provision. also send me one of little cans of powder that Johnie sent sent me from Richmond.
You ask me if I want more clothes I want none but what I have mentioned above.
I am now very well and on duty today camp life is right hard but I do not mind it.
I have tended to my horse very well and he stands it as well if not better than any other horse in camp.
There is no news here at all you hear more news than we do. I am very well and hope to find you the same
Your Affectionate Son
Benjamin Franklin Cochran
