Norton, Levi W., fl. 1861-1862 to wife

Envelope has free frank signature of Reuben Eaton Fenton. Writes from Camp Baker. Comments that the roads are difficult to cross so the mail boy delivers the mail only twice a week. While visiting the sick, he knelt down beside a dying man and "wiped away the dews of death from his brow." The man's name was Max Lowe and he died at noon from his own wounds. He was a Bavarian emigrant and a "good true hearted soldier, one who had the confidence of his Captain and comrades." Lowe was buried in a wide coffin and the American flag was spread over it. His coffin was placed in a small grove of pines and cedars. A bench slab was prepared with his name, age, date of death, company, Regiment, and brigade marked on it. A man named Millard has gone to the new camp, which has a good view of the Potomac River; the rest of the infantry will go there tomorrow. If Captain Brown's resignation request is accepted, Millard will become the new Captain. They all think that Brown "did not do right by this Regiment." Would love to tell his wife that he is coming home to stay but does not think it will happen soon. Wants to set a good example for his sons by performing to his best ability. Bailey will probably become 2nd Lieutenant in Company B. Some do not want this to occur, but Norton is sure that Colonel Taylor will put a good man in that position. He does not know who will become Captain of Doyle's Company. Many think that they will spend the winter in southern Maryland. Wishes they could do more to serve their country. Feels that unless this Regiment of the Brigade has a battle to fight in, they are useless in this war.