2006.002.

0011 Civil War Letters Wing Family

Camp Woll. Maryland. October 17. 62. Dear Brothers & Sister Your kind letters were received with the greatest of pleasure and as I have a good oppertunity I will improve it. to day Company A. is on guard duty and it is one of the prettiest drills we go through with. We term it Mounting the guard. This morning Our Company never looked better and I tell you they are a splendid looking company any way. When we go on guard duty each man must scour all the brass about him see that his gun is in good order black his shoes black his shoulder strap his cartridge box and see that every thing is in good order. We are then ordered to fall in the ranks and are marched down to the guard house. We then go through the inspection of arms, the drums and fifes playing while going through the inspection. directly after we relieve the guard. Three corporals are selected each to take charge of a relief a certain number of men in each relief. The first relief then goes the rounds and relievs the men on guard. They stay on for two hours and then the second relief relievs them. each company stays on guard from eight o clock in the morning until eight the following morning. The last time we were on guard duty I was corporal of a relief so this time I am exempt. for each time we take turns. Today the 169 Regt hopes to day they are on the way to Washington. Edgar and I are well and so far I have not seen a sick moment since I enlisted. I am contented and if the war lasts three years well and good. I can go the soldiers life for that length of time or longer. I know we have not seen hard times yet but I expect we shall before long. The tobaco Walton sent was just the thing we wanted and we are much oblidged to him for it. the box and contents are relished by us I guess you would think so if you could see us make a general attack which occurs daily. Charlie Cushings funeral I no doubt must have been a very solemn sight. I should liked to have been there, How does Willie prosper he must talk considerable now. Kie you write a very good letter so does Angie, but take a bit of good advise from one that has been through the mill and that is to improve all the time you have in school by trying to excel all, in your different studies. and be very particular about learning to spell and write. now dont read this and

think no more of it but bear it in mind and Kie dont quit going to school for the sake of going to work for if you do you will regret it take my advise and go to school as long as you possibly can and I will warant you Father will see you through. Angy, I want you to be particular to study and try to excel your schoolmates in every thing. probaly you will think I had better try and write better well here after I will. I will try to set you an example. There is no news of importance when ever there is I will write. We some expected to have a little trouble with stewarts Rebel Cavalry last Sunday but were disapointed. Write soon for Walton, McKie and Angie love to all. Affectionately your Brother G.H. Wing