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

Sat. morning Octo. 12, 61
Found at camp this A.M. a letter from Ellen & Geo. written Thursday. It makes no difference how my letters are directed, this was directed U.S. Hotel. they are always behind. I am much bothered about the Aid de C. wrote Gen C. last evening was not a bit satisfied with the letter, wanted to go on to w. but I really cannot leave the Regiment just as we are about starting off. I spoke to Harland about going twice, but he does not wish me to. wrote a letter to Genl C. that he could answer. or not, if he should answer, I think I should go on to w. as soon as we get settled at Hempstead. If I could spell correctly I should have tried much more for the position on Gen C's staff. tell George to learn to spell before most anything else. It is so necessary I should probably have to write much from dictation & I could not open a dictionary as I have been in the habit of doing. This is one of my great objections to that past. we never had spelling -at any school I - attended. we have been expecting our arms every day, shall begin Guard Mounting &c as soon as they arrive, that makes it necessary for me to remain here. we expect to leave Tuesday afternoon. You seem to consider that I have a definite offer from Genl Casey. I cannot see it in that light. He is waiting my arrival in w. to see about appointing me cousin Lemuels letter said. If I had the certain offer I should either accept immediately or go to w. to see about it. I should then be able to demand the leave of absence from the 8th. Harland would grant it now if I insisted, but I feel I ought not to have it just at this time particularly as there seems to be some uncertainty. We go to church as a regiment tomorrow at the south Congl. if it is not too stormy or too muddy. I inclose my first draft of letter to Gen C. it is very nearly what I wrote. it is clumsily expressed & there is nothing right about it. It only took me from about half past 3 in atfernoon until nine in the evening to write it, at work all the time except supper. I have felt cross ever since I began the letter. I hope he will answer though I hardly expect it. I wish I could have gone on to W. Font write me any thing more that Genl may say v. I think he is much mistaken in the post. it ranks same as Adjutant is. 1st Lieut, the pay is $10 per month now. The chief of a Brig. Geniis staff ranks as Capt but of course that I could not get. of course I know that is the preferable position, but circumstances alter cases & I should wish to know more than I do at present before deciding between the two posts. I dont know what I have written I dont feel over & above settled this A.M. though I am perfectly well. I have great faith in flannel. Geo. will remember me to my little friend Lizzie Rivius I believe she is the first to send her regards to me. Have not seen Gen Butler yet I expect he will offer me a positon on his staff just to keep me as unsettled as possible. I dont wish to go with Gen Casey if he is to be simply the commander of a school of instruction I wish to be in the strength I should feel like a coward in that place. Love to all - uncle G & Aunt Mary - Chas I think this letter will reach Norwich to night.