Bristol Station, Va.
January 27, 1864
Dear Father:
Yours of the 19th was received yesterday. It found me enjoying good health and comfortable quarters. There is nothing of importance transpiring here now. I am kept busy here now in the office of the Chief Asst. Quarter Master of this division. He is a kind-hearted, gentlemanly fellow, so I have a pleasant time compared with what might be. I am sorry to hear that Charlie Reeser has done as you say he has. He may get into trouble yet. Do you know where Shaw’s son was caught? In all probability he will be shot as his is a case of deliberate desertion. It is a pity of his friends. There has never been a single man shot for desertion out of the Reserves yet. Nobody knows yet when our term of service will expire. Wm. Mays has got back again. Tell Shippen I have been expecting a letter from him for a long time—and little Mary also. Mother has not written me for some time—tell her I would like a specimen of her chirography once more if she can see to write. As I tell Bingham all the Rockland boys in the10th and 4th Cavalry are well. There is little or no sickness here in the Army.
I think of nothing to interest you. Enclosed is a note for Bingham.
I am, your Son
J. D. Chadwick
Next posting: February 5, 1864
Jonathan E. Helmreich
College Historian
Allegheny College
Meadville, PA 16335