December 13, 1861
Dear Father:
I received through Lyman Hill a letter which you wrote me a short time since directing me to pay him five dollars. As I had not so much money in my possession I could not do it, but paid him three and saved twelve cents for postage. Shall not prepay this. I wish you would send me the five dollars so that I can pay him the rest and have a little left. We have given up all hope of getting any pay for the present; all the other regiments, some of them sworn in later than ours, have been paid, but for some reason or other ours is not forthcoming. I we don't get it soon, I shall send for more was we must lay out some in getting ready for cold weather.
We shall probably remain here a month longer at least, perhaps through the winter. Our time is well taken up now. We have brigade drills every forenoon about three hours and a half. General Foster commands. Watkins has not arrived yet but we have heard from him on the way.
The weather is growing cold very fast now. Colonel Sprague was thrown from his horse and fractured his wrist a few days ago. He is doing well. The last time I was on guard, I had quite an eventful time. Admitted a contraband contrary to the general orders, although I was sanctioned by the Office of the Day. He is now on his way North. He was a fine, smart looking fellow, and said he would sell for $1500. Also had another little adventure. One of my guard, a man who deserted twice at Worcester and whom I was requested to keep an eye on by his Captain, turned up missing about noon. He asked me for permission to go to his quarters. I refused him, but he went and also crossed the lines somehow. I traced him out and followed him to see if I could find him. In a short time I caught sight of him and followed him pistol in hand till he was once more withing the lines. Whether he was attempting to desert I don't know, but I do know that if he had tried if after I saw him, I should have shot him.
We are all well here now I believe. Love to all.
Yours truly,
W.F. Draper
P.S. If you have not sent Scott's Evolutions of the line, please send it as soon as possible. We are drilling in that now, and I wish to understand it. I can't see the point of that money belt. I am sure I do not know what to put in it.
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