Harry Stewart
Photo Courtesy of the Thompson Family.
Dearest Mother,
I had intended writing to you several times but the weather has been so warm that I am perfectly incapacitated for anything. We were almost melting now but we have raised our tents (a "Sibly") about three feet from the ground so that if there is any air
stirring we get it. Our company has just come off drill which this morning consisted of marching out into the woods and lying down until the recall beat. I've been quite sick and was taken the same as George but took good care of myself and am now well save a cold or coughs but a syrup which the "hospital steward" gives me relieves me very much and I apprehend no danger. The day before yesterday the first brigade paraded in Newbern and were reviewed by General Burnside and Governor Stanley just appointed to this state.
Our regiment is said to have the done the best of any. Today I gave up writing this morning because it was so hot but tonight I'll try to finish. Today the 2nd Division was reviewed. It is very probably we will soon go away to have a chance again at "Secesh".
The news we have heard lately has filled us with joy. Although willing to fight and uphold the government and sustain the laws and constitution yet it is hard to be away from home so far with such a little to do. While I was in the office I did not feel this so
much for my mind was constantly occupied with either writing what I had done or would have to do. But now I have nothing to do but sleep save for about 5 hours each day and I lay and think of "home," of you and sisters Ginnie and Mattie, of Amanda and their family of the friends I have known and I get so homesick and disconsolate that don't know what to do with myself and am glad when the drums sound for drills. Oh! If I could only be with you tonight with Amanda by my side I should be but too happy. I am working hard for a commissioned office but I find that the principle thing is influential friends for instance one young man only 18 years of age with a Father Captain was promoted from 5th sergeant to orderly when at the same time he did not know as much as any who were over him. His father reducing to private an orderly who was as capable of any man in the regiment. A few days ago he was made 2nd lieutenant although hated by the men of his company and only because of his father's influence. Well my turn may come soon for since leaving Annapolis we have lost 10 officers and their vacancies must be filled. Have you heard from Amanda yet? They took George's death very hard. His mother calling continually for me and Amanda is almost crazy. Oh if I could only come home for a few days but it is impossible. You will pray for
me and believe that I am coming home again. Use your willpower in this case for I am going to. Amanda says she sometimes thinks I will never come but you must not think so. Give my love to all my friends and sisters in particular.
Write soon and believe me,
your son Harry H. Stewart
To Mrs H. A. Stewart
Camp Burnside
June 3, 1862
