William James Fisher » Written by Fisher

Written by Fisher

June 5, 1863 [Friday]. Camp, near U. S. Ford, Va.

Posted in 1863, Letters, Service, Written by Fisher – 2 Comments

My Dear Father:

Since I last wrote you we have moved camp and are now about five miles from Falmouth and about one mile and half from United States Ford. Our 1st Brigade is at U. S. Ford. The 3rd is at Bank’s Ford while we are held in reserve to support either party.

The orderly just brought me a circular issued by General Hooker, saying that the Army must be held in readiness to move at a very short notice, with three days cooked rations and all the supply baggage sent to the rear. That, I think, indicates a move in a very short time but, which way we will move, remains to be seen.

I hardly think we will make another attempt to cross the River as I believe the enemy has a force superior to our own. I think General Hooker intends to stand on the defense, until the enemy attacks us. Whether we are successful or not, will decide future movements.

Some think we go back towards Washington and perhaps have a 3rd Bull Run. I don’t think we will. I am inclined to think we will hold our position on this side of the River at least as long as we can.

Three men of our Division are sentenced, by a General Court Marshall, to be shot today at 12 o’clock. Fortunately for them, they were reprieved by the President and got the news about two hours before the time of execution.

I should like to have got on Mustering Duty this summer but, I suppose, there is no chance now; owing to my failure to call on the Governor. I didn’t know he was here, but so much for unfortunate mishaps. If I could have got on Mustering Duty, I would have been on some General’s staff, and had a chance to distinguish myself, or perhaps extinguish myself.

I suppose the Governor thinks I’m an untamed cannibal. Perhaps before a week passes, I may be a tamed cannibal.

Give my love to all the family and write soon.

Your son, W. J. Fisher

Address letters to: Lt. W. J. Fisher, 10th Infantry, Head Qtrs. Centre Grand Division, Army of the Potomac, Near Washington, D. C.