Camp near Fredericksburgh VA

Monday December 8th 1862

Snow storms, bitter cold, frozen canteens while on picket. Couldn’t write because shivering too much. He is well but had a fever and most have a cold. Notes from Fletch and Tom to family at home. Tom feels better than ever. Rumors of going home vs. marching, or if give up pay can go home. He would go home. Shelter tents “are no better than a couple of pocket handkerchiefs”. Much Peace talk but also say going tomorrow to Acquia Creek. Please send stamps and envelopes. He worries about her keeping warm “in the old castle”. Wants to know how the cabbages came out and if “the old methodist didn’t try to cheat you of of them.”