Rifenburgh, Peter E. (1843-1863) to brother
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC08914.017 Author/Creator: Rifenburgh, Peter E. (1843-1863) Place Written: Camp Parapet, Jefferson Parish, Louisiana Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 14 March 1863 Pagination: 4 p. ; 18.6 x 24.3 cm. Order a Copy
Is well and enjoying good health. Hopes this letter finds him in a similar condition. Has not received a letter from home in four weeks. "What the reason is I do not know." Expects to receive one the next time the mail arrives. Has not been paid since January 1, and could use 50 cents worth of postage stamps. Stamps are "darn scarce." If he were closer to New Orleans, he could get stamps. Wants to know if Eliza received his letter. Does not know how long he will be staying here. There is fighting nearby at Port Hudson. Wishes his regiment were part of the action: "I for one should like to have the fun of shooting some of the damn Rebels, but I don't think that this regiment will ever get in a battle." His leaders had moved brigades "for fear that we would get in a battle." Thinks it is going to rain. Have had a "very easy time;" does not do much besides drill. One of his comrades has rheumatism and "gets a fit about every week."
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