Washington, May 25th, 1864.
Dear Wife,
Here I am in Washington. Came in the morning. Got permission to appear before the board, but when I got down here and could see over into Virginia where men were pouring out their blood like water for their country, the old feeling came over me to rush to the battle. I thought I would find Mr. Baxter and advise with him. You see I had nothing but my word to prove that I belonged to the 6th Vermont. Mr. Baxter did not advise me, but I concluded to go, for I am not like Lynn. He thinks a living coward is better than a dead hero. Would not you blush to be the wife of a living coward, but Lynn does not mean it. He is not able to take the field. Well, to tell you how I got along. I got the papers made out to go on. I told Mr. Baxter that I thought I could draw some ration money if I reported to Gen. Casey. He went to see him, to see what the effect would be if I reported. I could go on without reporting but did not know what the effect would be if I reported. He came out and told me I must not go on. I suppose he stuffed Casey with regard to myself. I then looked to my papers, and found they had got me into the wrong Regiment so I reported. Am here at Sanitary Lodge #374. N. Capitol Street and direct to me there. I have not a moment to spare. I shall try and write tomorrow. Can give news of Bowker.
Your affectionate husband,
Charles.
