May 11, 1861
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Dear Father,
We received those things sent by Lieut. Lowe, they came in very good place. The blankets that were given us at Harrisburg were so poor and thin that you could sift bull dogs through them and only half ones at that. The one that some of the folks sent me came in very good place and for which I am very much obliged; the cookies, tell Aunt Mary, came in good place, the rations (that is the meat) that was given our mess was stolen, so we had nothing but bread and coffee and finished the meal with cakes which made a tolerable supper; when Lieut. Foster came back he brought a box of preserves for one of our mess, we use them when we run out of meat, we eat bread and preserves for breakfast. I have drank nothing but coffee since I left home. They are enlisting men for three years. A great many of the men are willing to stay and fight if their is any but wont bind themselves for so long a time. Bob I understand is going. I haven’t seen him yet so aint sure, Luke says he will go if he can hold his position. I don’t think I will enlist for three years. I will wait my time out and after that if am needed I will re-enlist. The men will have to give a decided answer this afternoon. Those that go they will form other regiments; if it had’ent been for Alf I would have enlisted under the excitement.
We are all well and in good spirits. John Murray, Bob Kincaid, Alf Davitt, and the rest. Ellen’s uncle is not very well he got cold and it settled in one of his eye, it very sore he keep it well covered up; I believe he has got something from the sergon. If you can, let me know what I shall do about enlisting.
My love to the folks at home and respects to all inquiring friends
Your affectionate Son
Sim