Headquarters 56th Mass. Vols.,
Near Petersburg, Va., July 3, 1864.
Dear Hannah, — We were moved into the second line of rifle-pits last night, although we did not make much by the exchange, for in our present place we are only about 100 yards from the first line, and in an open field, so that the rebels have a fair view of us. There was a man killed about fifteen feet from my quarters this morning, and another one wounded, both by the enemy’s bullets.
It is now about 6 P.M., and I see no indication of any move on our part to-morrow. I think we shall have a quiet time of it unless the rebels attack us. . . .
Our Q. M. (now Captain) Ladd has resigned his position in the regiment, in order to accept promotion. I asked him to call on the family and think he will do so. He is a very nice fellow indeed.
I wish I were at home to protect you from the robbers. I think that this war will and has brought a precious set of scoundrels round. I am afraid that when some of the regiments are mustered out, some of the men will find it so hard to settle down to civilized life that they will take to robbery, etc., by way of amusement.
Monday, July 4, 1864.
We still remain quiet. All last night the enemy kept up a tremendous popping, in order to prevent us from moving or massing troops. Several of the bullets struck my shanty, which, by the way, is a very nice little place. It consists of two rows of logs placed one on another, with dirt thrown up on the outside. It is proof against any bullets the enemy have. On the inside it is dug down about 18 inches so that we feel quite safe here. All the officers have to live in this way. It is the only way theycan live with any approach to safety. When one ventures out too much, the sharp zip of bullets admonishes him of his danger.
The Sanitary Commission has been doing a great deal of good lately. They have been issuing tomatoes and saurkraut to the troops, as well as to the sick. Occasionally lemons are dealt out. These fresh vegetables have a wonderful effect on the health of the men. They prevent scurvy and keep the men in good condition. I imagine that an immense supply of these articles must have been sent down here, for the headquarters of the various generals have generally absorbed a great portion of the stuff sent by the Sanitary. . . .
