Headquarters 56th Mass. Vols.,
Near Petersburg, Va., June 29, ’64.
Dear Father, — We are all very busy indeed, making out our returns for the past month. We are now in the front line again, having relieved the 2d Brigade last night. We occupy the same position that we had when here before, by far the pleasantest on the line, as we have a skirt of woods in our front, which shields us from the enemy’s sharpshooters. I hear that heavy guns are to be mounted along our line to-night.
Everything remains “in statu quo.” There seems to be a head wanting somewhere, if we are going to have a siege. Each corps seems to be working on its own hook, as far as I can see.
I am detailed on court-martial again, and am President of the Court. We meet at division headquarters every day.
I suppose that James has got home by this time. Has he recovered from his fright yet? He was completely disgusted with the army when he left here.
I wish you would please send me the semi-weekly Advertiser once in a while, and at the same time enclose a nice cigar. I find a good many officers get occasional cigars in that way, to help them digest the news.
I think that we shall remain where we are for some time, unless the rebs drive us away, or we take Petersburg. I don’t see any likelihood of either event happening yet awhile.
I am afraid that Jarves will not be able to come back to this regiment. I wish him to hold his position, however, as I think he has lost enough serving his country to entitle him to the place, even if he cannot perform any duty.
We lose men every day from the enemy’s sharpshooters. I have lost but one or two, having been quite lucky.
What kind of a time did you have on Class Day? We were under almost broiling heat, which killed two of our men on picket. I would have given anything to have been at Cambridge then.
Our quartermaster, Captain Ladd, is going home in a day or two, he having been promoted. He goes home to give bonds, etc. I shall ask him to call and see you all. Please ask him to tea, if he comes. He is a very nice fellow, and is half brother to Mr. Upham of Spencer, whom you know.
Please give my love to all the family. I am perfectly well.
