Wheelock G. Veazey to Julia A. Veazey
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I just rec’d yr splendid letters fr N. C. Am very glad you are enjoying yrself so
much. I should like to be there very much if I could be there without leaving
here. I cant even go to Washington to see my sick boys, we are so busy. Yet I
have not had such hard work for a week or two, as I am relieved fr detail
service now that the Col is away so much, & have to be here in command. All
the work I have to do then is to drill the Reg’t a couple hours each day.
Excepting to look around after things a little.
The Vt. papers state
that Lt. Col Hyde is promoted to Col myself to Lt. Col. & Seaver to Major. I
knew we were so recommended by Genl. Smith, but our comissions have not come
yet. If such is the case there will be 3 new Capts made & a general changed
in the officers. One Capt. has resigned, sick. I still act as Capt. as probably
all the changes will be made at one time. I almost fear my promotion will be
any- thing but a fortune. It is too rapid for so young & unmilitary a man as
myself. I shall accept it, if true, with more confidence from the fact that Genl
Smith recommended me, for he is very severe on officers & criti-
cises all of them closely. Several are under arrest now for some little mistake
or misdemeanor. Floyd I dont think will be Capt. probably 1st Lt. & some
1st Lt. will be capt. Powers I hope. There is a good deal of talk or rumour of
an attack soon by one party or the other. Night before last we were called out
at about 11 o’clock to repel an attack, but came in at one as there was no
approach It arose fr a false report. I was sent in advance with my Co. to
reconnoitre. I have always rec’d the post of honor at these times. Last night we
delt out 40. rounds of cartridges & haversacks, full of provisions
were ordered to be ready for a moment’s start, but the night was passed
quietly. The Rebels seem to be concentrating near by. We have considerable
confidence in our ability to hold this place now. We hope at least not to
tarnish the fame of the American army again as was done at Bull Run. How ones
cheek tinges with shame at that disgrace. Are you sure you remember all I have
told you, among so many gay folks? What should I do if you did not? I will
direct the next letter to Nashua as you say you are going home this week. Please
tell Mrs. A. I am greatly obliged for her letter I will answer it if I can get
time. Say to her that I shall go in for a [huge] time when I do
come. The drum calls to dress parade. Be a good child my own angel. I do wish I
could see you one moment.
Good night darling
Yr devoted husbandW. G. Veazey
You may remember me to any of these folks with you if I know any of them. Why don’t those young men inlist?