[3] In a letter to his father, dated 8th mo. 16th, 1863, written while the army was at Rappahannock Station, we find the following extract: "When I enlisted, I made a resolution that I, as long as I was in the service, would neither use profane language, smoke or chew tobacco, or drink intoxicating liquors. This resolution I have strictly adhered to, and I believe I am a happier man for it."
DIARY.
1st day, 5th mo. 1st, 1864. Camp near Mitchell's Station, Va. Had regimental inspection this morning at ten o'clock by Capt. W. Davis. The parade was formed, then moved to the rear into columns, and as we were critically inspected yesterday, we were dismissed. I was busy the rest of the day helping Johnson to fix up the clothing books, and as the pay rolls were not right, we had to go to work and make out three more, leaving out ten deserters, which were taken up wrong on them at first. J. C. Kimball wrote one while Johnson and I wrote the others. Received my Baltimore American.
2d day, 5th mo. 2d. Done nothing of any account all day. Was nice weather.
3d day, 5th mo. 3d. This was a nice warm day. Each company was out at target practice one or two hours this afternoon. Each of us shot five rounds. Some talk of us moving.
4th day, 5th mo. 4th. We were told at nine last evening to have everything packed, as we would likely have to move. Drew six days' rations of coffee, sugar and crackers and two days' rations of pork. We were called up at twelve o'clock last night, packed up, and by three o'clock were on the march. Marched towards Piney Mountain, where we arrived about sunrise, and made a short halt. We were in the rear of the first brigade. Marched past Stephensburg, thence crossed the Rapidan at twelve o'clock on a pontoon bridge. There were two bridges of canvas-covered boats at Germania ford. After stopping a short time, took up the march and followed the plank road, and after going five or eight miles, halted and bivouacked for the night on a high hill near the right of the road. The day was very warm after the sun rose. We were forced as fast as it was possible for us to go—stragglers fell out by hundreds—no brigade or regiment seemed to be together in the after part of the day. I had to fall out, and threw away my mess kettle, some of my clothes, pork, and several other things, and then could no more than keep up. Halted with the little part of the regiment, took a good bath, and made supper of bread, pork and coffee. We seemed to be in the rear and with the General's headquarters. Went to bed on the ground about 8 P. M.
5th day, 5th mo. 5th. Five o'clock A. M. Slept well last night. Were called up at three this morning, got our breakfasts and made ready to move. Are now awaiting orders. The birds are playing around us and the day promises to be a pleasant one. Seven A. M. Have moved out and halted to the right of the road—are six miles from Mine Run and fifteen from Fredericksburg. Gen'l Warren's headquarters are near us. We appear to be pretty well in the rear. Col. —— commands the first brigade. Have not heard of any rebels yet in front. Gen'l Burnside is said to be in the rear guarding fifteen hundred wagons. The sun is coming out hot—the weather clear and sultry. Twelve M. Have been laying down since six o'clock. The Sixth Corps has passed down the plank road to take position on our left. Heard some heavy musketry firing towards our left. It is said to be all cavalry fighting. From what I know we are in the reserve. Gen'l Robinson's headquarters are within a hundred yards of us. There is also a signal station near the headquarters. This is near the Wilderness tavern. There is a house on the hill near here where "Stonewall" Jackson was taken after he was wounded at Chancellorsville. The sun is burning hot.