April 3rd, 1863

Camp Near Fredericksburg Apl 3rd 1863

Brother Gust

I suppose I am owing you a letter and might as well write it now as any time. There is not much to write about but I will do the best I can with the timber I have got on hand. In the first place I will tell you about the big times that we are going to have here next Monday the Anniversary of our attack on Yorktown. In the first place we are to have a shooting match. The best shot in each company gets a diploma, the best shot in the regiment gets a silver medal, and the best shot in both regiments of Sharp Shooters gets a gold medal worth $40-The next thing is climbing a greased pole for ten dollars. The next a sack race for five dollars. The whole to wind up with a horse race for $25. I would like to have you down her to see the shows, horse races are getting to be a verry common thing here they have three or four every week. There is nearly three hundred dollars subscribed for our shows next Monday all done by the Officers.
I got one letter from mother saying that I was all right for a Commission and then I got another saying that it was rather doubtful about getting one at all. It has all turned out about as I supposed it would so I am not much disappointed it may come around all right yet but I don't believe it hardly. There is so many miserable suckers making that their business that an honest man don't stand any chance at all. The next time that you see Chas Buck ask him if he has forgotten where I live. I have written him two letters but have had no answer yet. I expect we shall start off the tramp before a great while and will probably have some fighting to do. It can't come to quick too suit me. Can't think of any thing more at present.

Your &c.
CJ Hardaway

Historical Notes