February 23rd, 1863 On Board Steamer Fitzhugh

On board Steamer Fitzhugh Feb. 23, 1863

My dear Parents
   
Yours of the 14th instant has been duly received, was right glad to receive a letter from home once more as it was the first word that I had heard since I was at home – over one month.
   
We have left our camp near Nashville, and are now on board steamer Fitzhugh at Nashville wharf  waiting further orders; do not know whether we will go up the Cumberland river or down, but probably the former. Hope we will, as it much more healthy than down the river.

   
I am glad that our money has arrived safely.I have no preferences as to how the money I sent shall be invested.
   
The box of provisions came through in good condition; tell Geo. and May that we used the last of their corn the other day and the boys said it tasted much like home.
   
As to there being a change in our company, I know not whether there will be or not -  Capt. Golden has tendered his resignation – do not know whether it will be accepted or not. (Ed. note: Elmer Golden’s resignation was not accepted and he was promoted from Capt. of Co. A to Major on March 22, 1863).
   
Cousin Doug’s place has not yet been filled. (Ed. note: Douglas Putnam, Jr. of Harmar. Promoted from 1st Lt. to Major and Adjutant on Feb. 1, 1863. Promoted to Lt. Colonel on March 22, 1863).
     
A great many of our boys are now sick with the measles and mumps, some five or six of our company are at the hospital in Nashville.
     
Yesterday  was Washington’s birthday, would that we now had a Washington to lead and direct our army: but fear we shall be doomed to disappointment, for I truly believe that the hundredth part of Washington’s capacity as a true patriot, general and leader, does not exist in the cranium of any of the leaders of our present army.
   
The person who accused Co. A of 92th Regt. ( 92nd Ohio Volunter Infantry – O.V.I.) of being a “disgrace to said Regt.” was forced some days since to acknowledge her to be the best drilled Co. in the Regt. and also at inspections, the most neat in appearance.
   
Tell Grandma I shall as soon as possible write.
   
Frank, Will, Ike, Mat, and Cal are all well as usual. (Ed.note: probably Franklin Leaman, William Matheny, Isaac Cooley, Matthew Scott and Calvin Wells).
   
I expect you had better continue to direct to Nashville.

     Affectionately your son
     D. Putnam