(excerpts)
“CAMP near Culpeper,
“Nov. 15th, 1862.
“As Capt. Bachman is going down to Richmond on business I take this opportunity of ‘tellin’ ’em huddy fur me, an’ ask ’em for sen’ me sumfin.’ As this is a strictly business letter I will proceed to enumerate the articles desired. Primo, one large black valise. Item, a plenty of writing paper (this is my last half sheet) and envelopes and a few postage stamps. Item, one buffalo robe and blanket. Item, the horseman’s overcoat of which I wrote in my last, and which was to be made of the heavy bluish grey cloth now at the Qr. Mrs. Clothing depôt in Richmond or any other suitable stuff, with long skirts and cape and lined throughout with woolen stuff and at the Qr. Mrs. dept. which will be cheaper, ‘vich it is a very good thing,’ all of the aforesaid to be accomplished through the instrumentality of the ‘ubiquitous Banks.’ Item, the coat to be double-breasted. Item, if the coat is not finished by the time of Capt. Bachman’s return don’t send it by him! Item, My BOOTS! Item, some soap and a tooth brush. Item, my red silk sash. Item, one of my razors – my shaving brush and soap. Item, if possible to be procured, one travelling toilet glass—this last very important! Our horses are getting more than they can eat—and we ourselves fare very well, so far as an abundance of beef and bread is concerned. We got a little Sorghum molasses the other day and have had some sweet cakes which were very good, I assure you. We have a battery drill and are at the manual of the piece every day—and altogether camp life is somewhat endurable though Mama’s pen-knife won’t compare to it in dullness. I was at Genl. Hood’s Head Quarters this morning. Since he has got to be a Major Genl. he has moved into a house and I suppose intends to live in style! . . . ”
And again
(Note: picture is of an unidentified Confederate soldier.)