“Every one that I show the old picture to, what I brought down with me, says it don’t look no more like me than Abe Lincoln”

Camp at Warrenton Junction VA

Sunday, February 28, 1864

Dear Wife,

As we have got marching orders, I thought I would write a few lines to you. My health is very good and I hope these few lines will find you all at home enjoying the same blessing.

Our Orders are to be ready at any time, but it is rather uncertain whether we go or not. The army is moving and they say they will not call on us unless our forces are crowded pretty hard. We are drawing hard tack again and 3 days rations. It is impossible for me to say where we are going, but reports at present say some of our army have got up to Mine Run again. Perhaps there may be a big battle fought and it may be nothing but a heavy reconnaissance.

I have just had my picture taken and will send it to you. It is not a very good one for it was spoilt in the coloring, but it is a good likeness of me. Tell me if you think I have altered any. Every one that I show the old picture to, what I brought down with me, says it don’t look no more like me than Abe Lincoln. They all think it is some relation of mine, but not a picture of myself. If I have altered any in looks, I have not in any other way, only, I hope, for the best.

I would send you some money in this letter if I was not afraid to, for so many letters are lost about payday. I think they are opened at the Post Offices for the money that is in them.

I cannot write much for I can’t think of what to write. There is no news of any consequence in the army. Give my love to all. Take good care of yourself and little ones, and I will try to do the same. May the strong love I ever feel towards you and our little ones, and the hand of a divine Providence, guide and protect you through life.

From your husband with love and well wishes,

Sergt. P. L. Dumont

A kiss and happy be thy dreams

Goodbye until you hear from me again