Valentine G. Barney to Maria Barney
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I should have written you yesterday but as I was Brigade Officer of the day did
not get time to I have now doffed my sash and handed my report into head
quarters and the rest of to day I will have to myself. I got a letter from you
night before last and I think I got them all as they came pretty regular. I dont
believe you get all mine as you speak of their not coming regular. I intend to
write twice per week and have with the exception of the time we were out away
from camp. Every thing here is joging along as usual we are having a good
oppertunity to drill and the men are improving very fast. There are a few men in
ea. Co. who are careless and willfully heedless and they have been put into a
squad by themselves called the ‘Awkward Squad” and are drilled two hours per day
extra. We had a Brigade drill last Friday and our regiment got compliments for
its good appearance and knowledge of the drill
I saw Chas Campbell
this morning and told him what you wrote. He is in Co F. 118th N.York. but he
says to have Henry direct his letters to me as he is but a few rods form here- I
fear you are working to hard in your garden for your good you had better get
some one to help you when your work is so hard I am glad those notes are all
taken up, did you get the Mortgage deed? The barn I spoke of I dont want to cost
much over $1,00.00 - and if possible less. I hope things will turn out ere long
so that I will be permitted to again return to you and instead of living this
dogs life enjoy the pleasures of a happy home I am not homesick or discontented
but my thoughts naturally turn towards home and its pleasant associations How
did the children like their rings? did the spoon get broken? You wished to know
about my health. I am well and dont have any trouble as I used to at all. I have
not tasted ale for nearly 3 mos (though it is plenty here) and dont intend to. I
cant write much every thing is so dull Give my love to Mary and kiss the roguish
boy & girl for their pa and believe me every your loving & devoted
husband
V. G. Barney