Camp Convalescent near Alexandria, Va.
October 18th 1862

Dear Father,

I am at last away from that horrid place called Newport News. I had the pleasure of leaving there on the morning of the 16th. We had a very pleasant trip up—only we had no sleeping place excepting the open deck where I caught a fresh cold and it helped my rheumatis. I feel a little better today. We have very good quarters here but very poor grub. Now is the chance for my box. I guess it will come through now. I can get a horse to Alexandria as often as I wish.

I left Dr. [J. G.] Ryerson well and hunting every morning. I don’t know how soon I shall get to the Battery ¹ but I don’t think it will be very soon because we can’t get away until we are able to march at the rate of 20 miles a day. I hardly think I shall ever be able to do that—at least not for a month to come. I don’t feel able to write a long letter so I shall close. Give my respects to all. Tell Mary to direct my letters to Alexandria Post Office. We have had no frost yet. Write soon and remember your affectionate son, — C. V. H.

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¹ Battery B was still garrisoned at Fort Buffalo on Upton’s Hill near Alexandria, Virginia, at the time.