MARTIN PRINGLE, Jr.
February 11th, 1862
Company G, 12th Regulars, USA
Fort Hamilton, Brooklyn, New York
Martin Pringle, Jr. to Philip W. Pringle
Dear Brother,
Your letter found me well and more than usually glad
to hear from you. First, I must tell you I am getting
along just fine doing my patriotic duty for the stars
and stripes and training for battle. But the weather
is very rough here - wet and raining and the ground is
covered with ice. Second, I am enjoying good health
although I am run out of money, but we will get paid
next week and then I shall have some again. Philip, I
wish you could see into our room at meal time. It
would make you laugh to see all them six-footers
grabbing for food. What a sight! Write soon. How is
the weather there? I remain your affectionate
brother, Martin. Kiss little Luella for me.
p.s. Please excuse all mistakes and bad spelling.
MARTIN
We have some splendid times here! Last Saturday G
and E company had a great fight. None of our boys were
hurt but some of the other company was almost killed.
A few of our boys are in the guardhouse handcuffed. It
happened that I was on guard and so I was not in the
scrap but I keep out of such. Philip, I have yet to
take my first drink in the state of New York and
intend to remain so although there are many
enticements to drink and play cards from which I
refrain. Now I want you to write to me and tell me all
the news and about the weather.
