Franklin County: Franklin Rosenbery to John Abraham
Rosenbery (father), November 1, 1863
Summary:
Rosenbery tells his father about army life and requests that his father send his
repaired watch in the mail. As in earlier writing, Rosenbery expresses his faith
in God.
November 1, 1863
Camp near, Auburn Mills, Virginia
Dear Father-
This Sabbath morning, I seat myself to inform you that I am well. Hoping that these few lines may find you all enjoying the same blessings of health.
I got to the 148th Regiment on the 30th. We were gladly received. I feel very well satisfied. Hoping that you all feel content with my absence.
I wrote you a letter from Baltimore. I hope that you got it.
As long as the Army is on the move a man sets down to write-he can't tell whether he can finish a letter or not.
I am noting everything down in my day book so when we get to winter quarters I can give you more interesting news about Army Life. In Rachel's letter see something about the rations.
I am perfectly well satisfied. I was examined yesterday. Again I passed for a sound mind.
Now, I will tell you that a Settler can make plenty of money. He must have recommendation from the Governor so that he can get permission but here is the trouble. There is only one settler allowed to a Regiment and it is dangerous as that is the first thing the Rebs will pitch for.
If I only had tobacco plenty, I could sell it just as I please. I brought 1 pound with me. I think I shall sell it and quit chewing. I Think that I can make 7 dollars out of my tobacco.
I want you to get my watch fixed and then make a small box out of pase board. Make it like an likeness case. Then lay the watch in and pack cotton or wool in the corners of the box. Make the box very little thicker than the watch. Send it by mail.
Keep account of what you lay out for me and I will pay you for your trouble.
Now, I will give you the post address and this will follow me anywhere
direct.
Franklin Rosenbery
Company A 148th Regiment
Pennsylvania
Volunteers
3 Brig. 1st Division 2nd Corps
Washington, D. C.
Now, be sure always to write in this way and the watch direct it the same as a letter only have it sealed up neatly and I will sell my tobacco tomorrow for if I can make something nice out of it. I will sell it. Then I will get you to send me some still by mail. That is if it will pay I may as well make all that it. Take good care of Rachel and the 2 little babes.
I still feel determined to try and to save my soul-let come what will if God will give me grace.
I must close by asking you to write when it suits you.
Tend to the getting of the watch fixed as soon as you can as I need it very much.
This morning is the first time the engine has come up the road since the Rebs blew it.
You read Rachel's letter of yesterday.
I think now we will get a little more grub. I think that we need it.
No more at present.
So farewell for this time.
From your
son,
Franklin Rosenbery.
