Manley Stacey Civil War Letters

Camp near Warrenton
Nov 2nd 1863

Dear Father

I have written you a letter, about every other day, since I returned, which will partly make up, for what I lacked, while at Washington. Tonight there is a report that we soon move, but I do not see it. We have to keep 8 Days rations on hand, all the time, this will be nice to carry. Tonight, we Draw, Potatos Beans & Dried Apples, 1 Potatoe, 4 Beans, & 2 pieces of Dried Apples, a piece Heavy Rations. A great many of the boys, are Stockading their Tents, also the officers. I think we shall soon move, when I can not tell. Tonight I expect, to go on as Lieut of the Guard, the first time I have been on Duty since my return. We average one Drill in 2 Days so are not worked hard at present.

I am sorry Charlie, exposed me but then I am not as harmed, Officers & all have the same Complaint, you can not keep clear of them, while laying on the Ground. About the Overhauling, all I have to say is invite in the Neighbors. Do you think we can not, boil water here, That is a mistake. It turned out to be the best thing, I could do my not reporting, to the Provost Marshalls, for if I did, I should have been sent to the Convalescent Camp, as some did that went down with me. At any rate I was in no hurry, to report. We are living very well here, though we soon expect to Draw Soft Bread.

I do not cough but little now, have not since I left Home. I am feeling tip top, sleep well & take my rations as natural as ever. How often do you want me to write, will twice a week be often enough. There is but little to write now. I wish you would tell Charlie, to send me some Tobacco, in a newspaper, right off. He knows what I want. My clothing Bill amounts too 64,75, my allownace is 42,00 big thing. Lieut Green is fleshing right up, & is getting quite Stout.

Hoping to hear from you often, with love to all

Manley