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2006.002.0011

Civil War LettersWing Family

Camp Woll. Maryland. October 17. 62.

Dear Brothers & Sister

Your kind letters were received with the greatest of pleasure and as

I have a good oppertunity I will improve it.to day Company A. is on guard duty and it

is one of the prettiest drills we go through with. We term it Mounting the guard. This

morning Our Company never looked better and I tell youthey are a splendid looking

company any way. When we go on guard duty each man must scour all the brass about

him see that his gun is in good order black his shoes black his shoulder strap his cartridge

box and see that every thing is in good order. We are then ordered to fall in the ranks and

are marched down to the guard house. We then go through the inspection of arms, the

drums and fifes playing while going through the inspection. directly after we relieve the

guard. Three corporals are selected each to take charge of a relief a certain number of

men in each relief. The first relief then goes the rounds and relievs the men on guard.

They stay on for two hours and then the second relief relievs them. each company stays

on guard from eight o clock in the morning until eight the following morning. The last

time we were on guard duty I was corporal of a relief so this time I am exempt. for each

time we take turns. Today the 169 Regt hopes to day they are on the way to Washington.

Edgar and I are well and so far I have not seen a sick moment since I enlisted. I am

contented and if the war lasts three years well and good. I can go the soldiers life for that

length of time or longer. I know we have not seen hard times yet but I expect we shall

before long. The tobaco Walton sent was just the thing we wanted and we are much

oblidged to him for it. the box and contents are relished by us I guess you would think so

if you could see us make a general attack which occurs daily. Charlie Cushings funeral I

no doubt must have been a very solemn sight. I should liked to have been there, How

does Willie prosper he must talk considerable now. Kie you write a very good letter so

does Angie, but take a bit of good advise from one that has been through the mill and that

is to improve all the time you have in school by trying to excel all, in your different

studies. and be very particular about learning to spell and write. now dont read this and

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think no more of it but bear it in mind and Kie dont quit going to school for the sake of

going to work for if you do you will regret it take my advise and go to school as long as

you possibly can and I will warant you Father will see you through. Angy, I want you to

be particular to study and try to excel your schoolmates in every thing. probaly you will

think I had better try and write better well here after I will. I will try to set you an

example. There is no news of importance when ever there is I will write. We some

expected to have a little trouble with stewarts Rebel Cavalry last Sunday but were

disapointed. Write soon for Walton, McKie and Angie love to all.

Affectionately your Brother G.H. Wing