Franklin County: William W. Walker to Edward
McPherson, January 28, 1863
Summary:
William W. Walker explains his illness and requests an extension of his
furlough.
Hon. Edward McPherson
January 28, 1863
Waynesboro
Dear Sir
During the battle of Fredericksburg, I took a violent cold, and it followed with a very severe attack of Typhoid fever, after laying two weeks in camp. I was sent home for furlough, bearing date Jan. 27th for 20 days. After arriving home, Dr. James Brotherston kept me in bed for 14 days, as soon as I was able to get out, I proceeded to Chambersburg, and reported myself to Dr. Senseny-who has charge of the hospitals there. He examined me and it was his opinion, concurred by Dr. Hamilton that it could take me six weeks to recover sufficiently to return to my command and he gave me a certificate to that effect. Enclosed find a copy of the same with orders to send it on to Brig. Gen. L. Thomas, Adj. Genl. U.S. Army. Since then I have heard nothing in regard to it, I am still very much reduced and from weakness + nervousness my system has been considerably [illeg.]acted and it will take at least that time before I will be able to return. Will you do me kindness to be that I am all right + whether my papers are sufficient I should not fancy being "absent without leave arrested, courtmarshalled +c +c on my return to duty. I leave my company in command of Lieut. G. W. Walker with all confidence that he will do his duty when called upon to lead my company when ever ordered.
If you will do the kindness to attend to this for me, will confer a favour upon yours. Most truly +
Respectfully
W. W. Walker
Capt. Com. Co. "E" 126 Regt Pa.
