Franklin County: Bob Taggart to Captain John
Taggart, January 24, 186[?]
Summary:
Taggart tells his brother about his recovery from an illness or injury.
Captain John Taggart, 9th Penn. Reserve Infantry
Jan 24th
Camp Pierpont
Dear John:
Yours of the 21st came to hand last evening, and the perusal of it afforded me much pleasure. It is now over a month since I [unclear: took] sick; and, because during that time I have not been able to answer many letters the folks have all quit writing. The papers you send, come regularly and are very acceptable. Reading is a most excellent means of passing the time, which drags heavily under circumstances like the present.
I had intended going over to a farm house to
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stop a while; and it was the Dr's desire that I
should; but the weather has been so bad that I could not be moved out. Besides,
when I come to think of it now, it is perhaps best that I remain where I am. Did
I go I would have to pay three dollars per week for board -- buying out of my
own pocket such extras as I might need -- besides
paying some one to wait on me, -- and when all these things are taken into
consideration, it would fall too heavy on my pocket, especially as we have not
yet been paid off, notwithstanding reports in Pittsburgh papers to the contrary.
The report is that we will be paid off to-day, and I would like to send some
money to Mr. Smith
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but don't know, until I settle up what I can do. The extras I have had to purchase will eat a
big hole in my amt. Wine $1 per bottle, Currant
jelly $1/2 per small glass, Lemons 5 cts each etc.
etc. These things are all prescribed by the Dr., and if I were in the Hospital
would get them without charge -- if they had them. And
the Dr. would send them down to my tent any way; but they are entirely out, and
dont know how soon their stock may be replenished;
as it is done principally by society contributions.
The Col. has been back for a day or two, but has not
sent me down any package; so I suppose he could not bring it. It is likely he
had his hands quite full.
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I am still improveing. All I want now, is strength, which returns slowly. My tent is very comfortable. We have a stove in it and can always manage to keep warm & dry.
Mrs. Col. Jackson, Mrs. Lt. [unclear: Walkenstam ], & Pierce, and Mrs. Capt Brookban & Fleming are all living in Camp now. There is nothing new going on, that I hear of. My love to all the family. Respects to all inquiring friends.
Your Affect Broth
Bob
