GOODELL FAMILY LETTERS- #19
 

Anson to Parents

 Fort Stevenson
Aug 17, 1863

Dear Father and Mother

            Your precious favor of the 10^th inst. Came to hand yesterday after being read by Ned at the hospital. Anything from home is very pleasing to Edwin now that he is sick.

            I have just been to the City to carry a roster of our Company which I have written and returned by way of camp and Hospital. I was glad to find Edwin on the gain and considerable encouraged. His appetite is returning slowly. This morn I sent him a watermelon.

            We are sorry Mother’s health is so poor. I fear sometimes that we shall not see her again but I hope and pray earnestly that she may be spared to us at least till after our return from the Army.

            Sometimes when I feel more like writing I’ll give my reasons for what I said about filling our ranks with drafted men and the abusive treatment I referred to.

            I am glad that you are so hopeful about the close of the war and your reason is indeed good for expecting a speedy close of the rebellion.

            The men remain about as sickly as ever in our company. A number of new cases occur every day. The thermometer has not been quite as high as formerly ranging from 75 to 99 degrees. For a number of days it rose to 108 each day. It is 99 while I write.

            I suppose that ere this you have seen Sergt. Perry I sent a package of pictures and letters by him.

            Our Captain is sick and 2^nd Lieut. Stratton away on furlough so that we have but one officer Lieut. C.F. Tew.[1] He is a good officer in caring for the men and will do anything to accomodate [sp.] us. I am trying to preserve my hopes and trust in Christ and live a Christian life.

                                                                Goodbye

Love to Charlie and all from Edwin.

                                                                       Anson P. Goodell