Nov. 9, 1861 from Camp Joe Holt

Nov. 9, 1861 from Camp Joe Holt

Camp Jo Holt

Nov. 9th

Dear Margarett

I will not be at home at the time set. Lut Pinick Has to leave. Charles and I will have to stay till he Returns. I have given 9 of my men furlows for ten day. I will be at home in _________?. We drew our tents to day. We are as well sutuated as soldiers are acustom to. The tents are water proff. The tents have a plank flour coverd with straw. I have a tent for my self & the Lutenant & they are double.

I do not know how Soldering will agree with me. I am will and harty at present

I slept at Jeffersonville last Knight with a Mr Skegman. I took breakfast In town this morning.

I have made no appointments for any of the Non comishiend officers Except Orderly Jas Fawcett. Two of my men got week in the Knees and did not take the Oath, ______? & ______?. All of the men were Recd., none Rejected.

I have not herd a smuty word or an oath from any member of my company, no not a word that might not have been uttered in the presane of the most Refined Lady. I have been very busy ever since I have been in camp. I have not had my men on drill Since we came in camp. We got to camp the Knight that we left home about 11 oclock tired & hungery and no supper till it was cooked for us. Ray spoke at Orleans the day that we left.

I will be at Home as soon as I can. I need not say any things about wishing to be at home. The boy are all will and seame to injoy them selves well. I may go to Indanopolis before I Return home. I have had no opportunity to Know what my chances are for the position that I am asspiring. I was informed that Ray was all right for me.

Yours,

John A. Ritter