Md. Heights, March 8, 1863.
Dear Father:
Yours recd. Am sorry to hear that you are so afflicted with rheumatism, it must come hard to you, as you have always been so healthy. There are only two sergt’s called from each company. They were examined, and a hard ex’, it was. I assure you there is a feeling for you here; there is scarcely a day goes by but what I hear your name spoken of in good terms. The noncommissioned officers recite once a week from the red book on artillery. They are going into the thing scientiffically: have bought several useful books on artillery and take hold of it with energy. I do not get lessons, but I am in the room when they recite and gather considerable information. I took a tramp with several of the boys to Solomon’s Gap, 5 miles out on the ridge; it is cut through the mountain; could see plainly where the battle of South Mt. was fought, it is about 12 miles from here. Would it pay for me to have a firkin of butter come out here? I will leave it all to you; butter is 35 cts. a lb. here and scarce at that. If it will pay ship it along, as there are plenty of chances to dispose of it. The Lieut, assigned to the Co. has not arrived yet. There are many reports going here; one is that we are going back to Fort Warren! Very respectfully yours,
L. Bradley, Jr.
