Joseph E. Shaw Collection: Letter #12

Donated By Robert Gritman

 

Head Quarters Brigade
March 14th 1862

Dear Ed,

          I have written two letters home but I guess they have been detained in Washington, as there was a rumor here that all letters & etc. would be kept in Washington (owing to the intended movement) in order that no news could be sent North in regard to it.  We received Marching Orders last night and we was were to have moved today but could not get ready in time.  We will start tomorrow (March 15).  We are to go on the Coast somewhere. Very likely to Port Royal and perhaps we will help Sherman take Charleston.  I was up all last night writing orders & etc. and have been very busy all day packing up and getting ready, so you must not expect a very long letter.  I am still in my old place and when we march I will go with the Staff, so I will have very easy times.  As soon as we reach our destination I will write at once.  I suppose Gus is getting along first rate.  Give my love to him, Mother Mr. Russell, George and all the folks.  Is George still working for Poppy? Tell Mother and Lucinda that I have got some of their cake yet and I intend to keep it for a curiosity.  Tell Mrs. Lockwood Ike is well and is in good spirits.

          Perhaps this letter may be kept back a day or two so you will know how to account for date & etc.  In case you don’t get it at all, why you must tell me in your next letter.

          Give my love to all the folks and tell them I am well & etc.
                                      Remain
                                      Your Afft
                                      Brother
                                      J. E. Shaw

P.S. I can’t think of half what I intended to write but I will condense it all into one sentence saying that “ I am well, in good spirits, & feel like a fighting cock”.  Consider everything as all right.

                   Saturday Morning March 15
Capt. Mindill the A. A. G. told me just now that he thought we would not get off until Tuesday as there are so many Artillery and Cavalry Regts. to embark.
                                                          Your Brother
                                                          Joe