_Washington, Dec. 15, 1863._ DEAREST MOTHER--The last word I got from home
was your letter written the night before Andrew was buried--Friday night,
nearly a fortnight ago. I have not heard anything since from you or Jeff.
Mother, Major Hapgood has moved from his office, cor. 15th street, and I
am not with him any more. He has moved his office to his private room. I
am writing this in my room, 456 Sixth street, but my letters still come to
Major's care; they are to be addrest same as ever, as I can easily go and
get them out of his box (only nothing need be sent me any time to the old
office, as I am not there, nor Major either). Anything like a telegraphic
dispatch or express box or the like should be addrest 456 Sixth street,
3rd story, back room. Dear mother, I hope you are well and in good
spirits. I wish you would try to write to me everything about home and the
particulars of Andrew's funeral, and how you all are getting along. I have
not received the _Eagle_ with the little piece in. I was in hopes Jeff
would have sent it. I wish he would yet, or some of you would; I want to
see it. I think it must have been put in by a young man named Howard; he
is now editor of the _Eagle_, and is very friendly to me.
Mother, I am quite well. I have been out this morning early, went down
through the market; it is quite a curiosity--I bought some butter, tea,
etc. I have had my breakfast here in my room, good tea, bread and butter,
etc.
Mother, I think about you all more than ever--and poor Andrew, I often
think about him. Mother, write to me how Nancy and the little boys are
getting along. I got thinking last night about little California.[22] O
how I wished I had her here for an hour to take care of--dear little girl.
I don't think I ever saw a young one I took to so much--but I mustn't
slight Hattie; I like her too. Mother, I am still going among the
hospitals; there is plenty of need, just the same as ever. I go every day
or evening. I have not heard from George--I have no doubt the 51st is
still at Crab Orchard.
Mother, I hope you will try to write. I send you my love, and to Jeff and
Mat and all--so good-bye, dear mother.