Augusta County: Thomas M. Smiley to His Aunt, August 28, [1863]
Summary:
Thomas M. Smiley discusses camp life activities.
August 28th
Camp Stonewall Brigade
Dear Aunt
As I have a good opportunity of sending a letter by Lieutenant
Wright who is going home on furlough I will improve it by writing you a few lines to let you
know that I am well & hope you all may be enjoying the same kind blessing I have not
much news to write except that everything is quiet
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We are in camp yet at the same place we have been since the first
of August. The Seasons has been good here plenty of rain to keep the ground in good order. The
last few nights have been very cool almost cold enough for frost.
Yesterday passed off very well here we had no drills. nothing at
all was done but what was necessary Reverend Mr See preached in the morning & Mr Hopkins in the evening
We expect to get Mr See for chaplain in
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our regiment as he is almost universally wished for by the men,
Everything wears a more cheerful look now than when we came to
this side of the mountain. Our army is filling up rapidly We have over fifty men in our company
which is more than we had when we started to Pennsylvania. Everybody is in good spirits they think that should General
[unclear: ] Meade advance we will be enough for him although he had the best of us in the battle
of Gettysburg
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I send by Lieutenant Wright an overshirt and pair of drawers and a book which he has promised to
leave at your house or Uncle James's As he is nearly ready to start I must close by asking you
to write soon & excuse this short letter Give my love to Aunt Ann Uncle James's Family
and all other inquiring friends.
Nothing more but remain your affectionate nephew.
Thomas M. Smiley
