Clapp, George (fl. 1839-1892) to Parents

Has finished all of his Sunday work and now is able to write. Describes his normal daily chores: "As soon as we get our breakfast we commence to fix up generally. First - take down the gun and rub it up and clean it. Next follow suit with the bayonet. Then comes the cartridge box and belts to black and polish. Then polish the pieces of brass on them. Then black our boots. Then make the bed and fold up the blankets and coats and lay them at the head of the bed on the knapsack. Then clean off the shelves of which we have only two." The list continues. He has to clean up his dishes and utensils, pile up wood and woodchips, and clean the fireplace in his shelter. He then has to sweep his street clean. One or two members of the company then go and clean the sinks. Everyone then cleans up and makes sure to comb their hair. Inspection then begins. "We then put on our dress coast and go out with guns and equipment to be inspected by the field staff officers of the regiment." The officers inspect each person and their quarters. They then make some comment about each house, which often is along the lines of "that is the dirtiest hole I have seen, make those men who live in there do extra fatigue and guard duty for a week." Everyone's boots are expected to be very well polished. In addition, although they only have one set of clothes, they are supposed to look "as though [they] had been kept in a bandbox." The rest of his work for the day was cooking beans. Had very good weather on their last picket. The picket after his was attacked by guerrillas. "There is a report that Lee's men are deserting very fast and coming into our lines under Abraham's last proclamation with regard to recognizing those who lay down their arms and come under our protection that they can have their property and also have it protected." Some Rebels have spoken of a "mutiny" in the army, but he is skeptical about that story's truth. Thinks the government will give them a chance to reenlist soon. If they let the regiment reenlist, it either means that the war is nowhere close to ending or "they intend to fry other fish." Does not like the long marches that the infantry have to go on, and would therefore rather be in the cavalry or artillery. Would hate to be in the navy, because "I am dreadfully afraid of water and I believe I should sure[ly] fall in as soon as we got under good heading." Has not had time to go down to Sedgwick's headquarters, so he cannot describe it for them. Hopes they have started working on his boots; really needs them before summer starts. Got a letter from Ann the night before last and will respond sometime this week. Intends to visit the 2nd corps with Edward Bridgman this week. Saw Sid yesterday; he is well. Tells them to tell Julia that Joe Cunningham has come to join them in their company.