Coit, Charles M. (1838-1878) to his family

On H J Brookman Annapolis Jany. 8, 1862 Dear All - I write in haste in great confusion & with very cold hands & I dont know why as I have not an idea in my head except that I received no letter from you to day. I fear we shall sail before another mail & then I dont know when or where I shall hear again. I wanted very much to know if you received the money I sent Sunday by express - two hund red dollars - I hope it will help you somewhat wish I could have sent a great deal more for we may not be paid again for a long time, certainly not before next march. we are just now transfering two companies from our vessel to a schooner alongside this will ease us nicely. oh how much better my quarters are here than if I was a company officer even of superior rank. They have only rough board bunks in the dark hold while I have a state room with the Coln very small but large enough to hold two little berths & nice bedding enough of it. our servants really have better accomodations than any on board except Field & staff as they are in the warm cabin with the only stove on board with the exception of cook stoves on the deck dont tell this for it would not sound very well. Bela Learned wrote Harland a few days ago for a position in the Regt said he saw by the papers that several officers had resigned wonder how he would like the company officers quarters here dont think he would like that style of "serving his country". I feel most wicked to keep such a bed as I have when so many others are so differently fixed. The Capt. sets a very nice table for us also. All others must provide for themselves. I do hope I am thankful for my many mercies, particularly that I have enjoyed such perfect health. I try to thank that higher Prince who rules all things. He has certeinly kindly watched over me & I do believe He will take me safely through & bring me back to all you dear ones in His good time. "My friend" the Lt. col. Dr. Lathrop are on the steamer. I wish they could be here Dr. L was here to day, think the steamer is not a very safe vessel to go outside in. Here again I am favored for our ship could take us round cape Horn or any where else. The Lt. col & Chaplain have got into hot water on the other boat so much so that the chaplain has come on board here now. of course we know nothing where we are to go to. I hardly think we shall go out of the bay. Dont know how letters should be directed I wrote this morning to direct to Fortress Monroe I dont know whether right or not but certainly put on Burnsides Coast Division and the Regiment. I must not write longer now. I wish I could bid you all good bye again before I sail. I can only do it in this way so good bye all & every body. uncle Geo Aunt Mary & Steven & Ed Clapp &c. & with ever so much love again good bye. Chas. Hope I can get this ashore to go but dont know. we shall probably sail during the night. I shall try to send this by the Capt of a tug boat that will be here during the evening. Eastman does nicely.