It would be pleasant to step in this morning and spend an hour or two with you. But as it is I will content myself with writing. I am enjoying good health and I hope this will find you well and enjoying yourself. Last week we had a pretty lazy time of it. We did not drill any but were called several times to answer to our names.
This morning we went out drilling before breakfast but I am excused this afternoon as I am detailed for police duty this afternoon.
Our quarters are good. We sleep in bunks one above another similar to those on boats but wide enough for two in a bunk. They are three high, I occupy a middle one with N.M. Jones from Lake City but drafted in the town of Zumbro. We have straw beds.
Our provisions are beans, potatoes, beef, coffee, rice, corn prepared some way with the hull off, and I understand we will have some tea. The soldiers that do guard duty and drill do not seem to put on airs at all, and as for being used like a dog as some have an idea we would, it is all moonshine. Yesterday I listened to a German read who was drafted, but I did not understand of course. Fred Moseman missed the boat and did not come up with me, but is here now.
I think some of trying to get into the Tenth Regt. But do not know whether I can or not. If not, I understand we are destined for the Fourth Regt. I think likely we will be on our way to Dixie in the course of a week or so. How do you get along? I would like to know all about it. Do not worry about me, love, for I am getting to feel quite at home. We are not in the fort but near it in an enclosure of several acres where we can walk around at leisure. Last Saturday they marched us to the river and let us swim. There are some pretty good singers in the crowd and when they get on the right strain it helps to pass the time pleasantly. Have you had rain enough to fill the watering place? I guess the majority of the men here are married. I heard one man remark yesterday that it was the first Sunday that he had not been with his wife since they were married, and he looks old enough to have been married several years. Did Father look around much when he was up? (I suppose of course that he was up.) If so what did he think of the plantation?
I gave an officer one dollar to express my satchel to Wabasha. I put your address on it but do not know but you will have to apply or send to the express office. I hope to receive an answer to my other letter in a day or two. Please give my respects to inquiring friends, and write soon to your affectionate husband
Levi Emery.
