{"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Slang","next":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Slang\u0026page=2","last":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Slang\u0026page=2"},"meta":{"pages":{"current_page":1,"next_page":2,"prev_page":null,"total_pages":2,"limit_value":10,"offset_value":0,"total_count":17,"first_page?":true,"last_page?":false}},"data":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_234","type":"collection","attributes":{"title":"Edmund Berkeley letter","creator":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_234#creator","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"Berkeley, Edmund, 1847-1906","label":"Creator"}},"abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_234#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of one letter from Edmund Berkeley to his mother Mary Lawson Berkeley (Williams). 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He graduated VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. After the Civil War he became a railroad executive. Berkeley died in 1906 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and is buried in Haymarket, Virginia.","V. M. Institute Nov the 26th 1863","My beloved Mother, \nI received cousin Mary's letter yesterday evening informing me of the death of my precious little sister. I was never more grieved in my life. We must not grieve for her now for she has happily escaped the troubles of time to come. I remember how sweetly she used to sing the little hymn I Want to be an Angel. How little did I think she would so soon realize her wishes. I will not miss her so much as you all at home for when I return Meggy will be large enough to fill her place. I was dreaming of the dear little thing a few nights ago. I am so thankful it was not one of the larger ones that it goes a great deal easier with me now than I expected.  Do not grieve for her but be thankful it was not one of the large children who knew right from wrong. We all know how much happier she is now than she would possibly have been on this troublesome world.","I am enjoying very good health now. I hope you have gotten entirely well before now. I know how glad you will be to see Pa for I heard he had started for Evergreen. I am getting on very well indeed. The last time I went to see about my demerits which was two or three days ago I did not have a single one. I have made a 3 every day this week on Mathematick which is the highest mark. I believe I study harder than any one I know of here but I came here so late that I am not certain of standing the January examination.  We have very poor fare here. Today for breakfast we had only two pieces of bread and about a half gill of milk with what we call growly which is made of mutton beef beef feet or any other thing they can make for dinner. We have beef and cabbage or turnips one day and beef-steak and soup the next. We have nothing that I would have eaten at home but I am so hungry when I go to meals that I think even turnips delicious, but I live off of it very well. [Neph] is as fat as a hog and every one says I have fattened very much. I like here very much but do not like the idea of staying here two years before coming home. If you are sick please send for me. Miss Herriot is very anxious to get to you she was very kind indeed to me when I was at the Rockbridge with the Corps.  If Mr. M. and Mr. B. come out with a wagon send Mr. B. to the springs and Miss H. will certainly come. Give my best love to Cousins L. and M. and my dear Sister. Kiss my precious little darlings from Louis down. Do keep Louis at home. Make them all kiss you every night and morning for me. Take care of yourself my precious Mother. Write soon. Give my love to Francis \u0026 Mr. Spring and remember me to all the Neighbors and servants and believe me ever your devoted son. \n[Neph] sends his love to all. \nEdmund Berkely","This collection consists of one letter from Edmund Berkeley to his mother Mary Lawson Berkeley (Williams). Berkeley has been informed of his sister's death and offers consolation to his mother. He also gives VMI news and complains about the food (early reference to \"growley\" a VMI slang word used for mess hall food).","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edmund Berkeley has been informed of his sister's death and offers consolation to his mother. He also gives VMI news and complains about the food (early reference to \"growley\" a VMI slang word used for mess hall food).","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. 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He graduated VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. After the Civil War he became a railroad executive. Berkeley died in 1906 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and is buried in Haymarket, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Edmund Berkeley was born in 1847 in Aldie, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. After the Civil War he became a railroad executive. Berkeley died in 1906 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and is buried in Haymarket, Virginia."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV. M. Institute Nov the 26th 1863\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy beloved Mother,\u003cbr\u003e\nI received cousin Mary's letter yesterday evening informing me of the death of my precious little sister. I was never more grieved in my life. We must not grieve for her now for she has happily escaped the troubles of time to come. I remember how sweetly she used to sing the little hymn I Want to be an Angel. How little did I think she would so soon realize her wishes. I will not miss her so much as you all at home for when I return Meggy will be large enough to fill her place. I was dreaming of the dear little thing a few nights ago. I am so thankful it was not one of the larger ones that it goes a great deal easier with me now than I expected.  Do not grieve for her but be thankful it was not one of the large children who knew right from wrong. We all know how much happier she is now than she would possibly have been on this troublesome world.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI am enjoying very good health now. I hope you have gotten entirely well before now. I know how glad you will be to see Pa for I heard he had started for Evergreen. I am getting on very well indeed. The last time I went to see about my demerits which was two or three days ago I did not have a single one. I have made a 3 every day this week on Mathematick which is the highest mark. I believe I study harder than any one I know of here but I came here so late that I am not certain of standing the January examination.  We have very poor fare here. Today for breakfast we had only two pieces of bread and about a half gill of milk with what we call growly which is made of mutton beef beef feet or any other thing they can make for dinner. We have beef and cabbage or turnips one day and beef-steak and soup the next. We have nothing that I would have eaten at home but I am so hungry when I go to meals that I think even turnips delicious, but I live off of it very well. [Neph] is as fat as a hog and every one says I have fattened very much. I like here very much but do not like the idea of staying here two years before coming home. If you are sick please send for me. Miss Herriot is very anxious to get to you she was very kind indeed to me when I was at the Rockbridge with the Corps.  If Mr. M. and Mr. B. come out with a wagon send Mr. B. to the springs and Miss H. will certainly come. Give my best love to Cousins L. and M. and my dear Sister. Kiss my precious little darlings from Louis down. Do keep Louis at home. Make them all kiss you every night and morning for me. Take care of yourself my precious Mother. Write soon. Give my love to Francis \u0026amp; Mr. Spring and remember me to all the Neighbors and servants and believe me ever your devoted son.\u003cbr\u003e\n[Neph] sends his love to all.\u003cbr\u003e\nEdmund Berkely\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V. M. Institute Nov the 26th 1863","My beloved Mother, \nI received cousin Mary's letter yesterday evening informing me of the death of my precious little sister. I was never more grieved in my life. We must not grieve for her now for she has happily escaped the troubles of time to come. I remember how sweetly she used to sing the little hymn I Want to be an Angel. How little did I think she would so soon realize her wishes. I will not miss her so much as you all at home for when I return Meggy will be large enough to fill her place. I was dreaming of the dear little thing a few nights ago. I am so thankful it was not one of the larger ones that it goes a great deal easier with me now than I expected.  Do not grieve for her but be thankful it was not one of the large children who knew right from wrong. We all know how much happier she is now than she would possibly have been on this troublesome world.","I am enjoying very good health now. I hope you have gotten entirely well before now. I know how glad you will be to see Pa for I heard he had started for Evergreen. I am getting on very well indeed. The last time I went to see about my demerits which was two or three days ago I did not have a single one. I have made a 3 every day this week on Mathematick which is the highest mark. I believe I study harder than any one I know of here but I came here so late that I am not certain of standing the January examination.  We have very poor fare here. Today for breakfast we had only two pieces of bread and about a half gill of milk with what we call growly which is made of mutton beef beef feet or any other thing they can make for dinner. We have beef and cabbage or turnips one day and beef-steak and soup the next. We have nothing that I would have eaten at home but I am so hungry when I go to meals that I think even turnips delicious, but I live off of it very well. [Neph] is as fat as a hog and every one says I have fattened very much. I like here very much but do not like the idea of staying here two years before coming home. If you are sick please send for me. Miss Herriot is very anxious to get to you she was very kind indeed to me when I was at the Rockbridge with the Corps.  If Mr. M. and Mr. B. come out with a wagon send Mr. B. to the springs and Miss H. will certainly come. Give my best love to Cousins L. and M. and my dear Sister. Kiss my precious little darlings from Louis down. Do keep Louis at home. Make them all kiss you every night and morning for me. Take care of yourself my precious Mother. Write soon. Give my love to Francis \u0026 Mr. Spring and remember me to all the Neighbors and servants and believe me ever your devoted son. \n[Neph] sends his love to all. \nEdmund Berkely"],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eEdmund Berkeley letter, 1863 November 26. MS 0154. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["Edmund Berkeley letter, 1863 November 26. MS 0154. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of one letter from Edmund Berkeley to his mother Mary Lawson Berkeley (Williams). 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Edmund Berkeley has been informed of his sister's death and offers consolation to his mother. He also gives VMI news and complains about the food (early reference to \"growley\" a VMI slang word used for mess hall food)."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e"],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. 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He graduated VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. After the Civil War he became a railroad executive. Berkeley died in 1906 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and is buried in Haymarket, Virginia.","V. M. Institute Nov the 26th 1863","My beloved Mother, \nI received cousin Mary's letter yesterday evening informing me of the death of my precious little sister. I was never more grieved in my life. We must not grieve for her now for she has happily escaped the troubles of time to come. I remember how sweetly she used to sing the little hymn I Want to be an Angel. How little did I think she would so soon realize her wishes. I will not miss her so much as you all at home for when I return Meggy will be large enough to fill her place. I was dreaming of the dear little thing a few nights ago. I am so thankful it was not one of the larger ones that it goes a great deal easier with me now than I expected.  Do not grieve for her but be thankful it was not one of the large children who knew right from wrong. We all know how much happier she is now than she would possibly have been on this troublesome world.","I am enjoying very good health now. I hope you have gotten entirely well before now. I know how glad you will be to see Pa for I heard he had started for Evergreen. I am getting on very well indeed. The last time I went to see about my demerits which was two or three days ago I did not have a single one. I have made a 3 every day this week on Mathematick which is the highest mark. I believe I study harder than any one I know of here but I came here so late that I am not certain of standing the January examination.  We have very poor fare here. Today for breakfast we had only two pieces of bread and about a half gill of milk with what we call growly which is made of mutton beef beef feet or any other thing they can make for dinner. We have beef and cabbage or turnips one day and beef-steak and soup the next. We have nothing that I would have eaten at home but I am so hungry when I go to meals that I think even turnips delicious, but I live off of it very well. [Neph] is as fat as a hog and every one says I have fattened very much. I like here very much but do not like the idea of staying here two years before coming home. If you are sick please send for me. Miss Herriot is very anxious to get to you she was very kind indeed to me when I was at the Rockbridge with the Corps.  If Mr. M. and Mr. B. come out with a wagon send Mr. B. to the springs and Miss H. will certainly come. Give my best love to Cousins L. and M. and my dear Sister. Kiss my precious little darlings from Louis down. Do keep Louis at home. Make them all kiss you every night and morning for me. Take care of yourself my precious Mother. Write soon. Give my love to Francis \u0026 Mr. Spring and remember me to all the Neighbors and servants and believe me ever your devoted son. \n[Neph] sends his love to all. \nEdmund Berkely","This collection consists of one letter from Edmund Berkeley to his mother Mary Lawson Berkeley (Williams). Berkeley has been informed of his sister's death and offers consolation to his mother. He also gives VMI news and complains about the food (early reference to \"growley\" a VMI slang word used for mess hall food).","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edmund Berkeley has been informed of his sister's death and offers consolation to his mother. He also gives VMI news and complains about the food (early reference to \"growley\" a VMI slang word used for mess hall food).","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. 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How little did I think she would so soon realize her wishes. I will not miss her so much as you all at home for when I return Meggy will be large enough to fill her place. I was dreaming of the dear little thing a few nights ago. I am so thankful it was not one of the larger ones that it goes a great deal easier with me now than I expected.  Do not grieve for her but be thankful it was not one of the large children who knew right from wrong. We all know how much happier she is now than she would possibly have been on this troublesome world.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI am enjoying very good health now. I hope you have gotten entirely well before now. I know how glad you will be to see Pa for I heard he had started for Evergreen. I am getting on very well indeed. The last time I went to see about my demerits which was two or three days ago I did not have a single one. I have made a 3 every day this week on Mathematick which is the highest mark. I believe I study harder than any one I know of here but I came here so late that I am not certain of standing the January examination.  We have very poor fare here. Today for breakfast we had only two pieces of bread and about a half gill of milk with what we call growly which is made of mutton beef beef feet or any other thing they can make for dinner. We have beef and cabbage or turnips one day and beef-steak and soup the next. We have nothing that I would have eaten at home but I am so hungry when I go to meals that I think even turnips delicious, but I live off of it very well. [Neph] is as fat as a hog and every one says I have fattened very much. I like here very much but do not like the idea of staying here two years before coming home. If you are sick please send for me. Miss Herriot is very anxious to get to you she was very kind indeed to me when I was at the Rockbridge with the Corps.  If Mr. M. and Mr. B. come out with a wagon send Mr. B. to the springs and Miss H. will certainly come. Give my best love to Cousins L. and M. and my dear Sister. Kiss my precious little darlings from Louis down. Do keep Louis at home. Make them all kiss you every night and morning for me. Take care of yourself my precious Mother. Write soon. Give my love to Francis \u0026amp; Mr. Spring and remember me to all the Neighbors and servants and believe me ever your devoted son.\u003cbr\u003e\n[Neph] sends his love to all.\u003cbr\u003e\nEdmund Berkely\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V. M. Institute Nov the 26th 1863","My beloved Mother, \nI received cousin Mary's letter yesterday evening informing me of the death of my precious little sister. I was never more grieved in my life. We must not grieve for her now for she has happily escaped the troubles of time to come. I remember how sweetly she used to sing the little hymn I Want to be an Angel. How little did I think she would so soon realize her wishes. I will not miss her so much as you all at home for when I return Meggy will be large enough to fill her place. I was dreaming of the dear little thing a few nights ago. I am so thankful it was not one of the larger ones that it goes a great deal easier with me now than I expected.  Do not grieve for her but be thankful it was not one of the large children who knew right from wrong. We all know how much happier she is now than she would possibly have been on this troublesome world.","I am enjoying very good health now. I hope you have gotten entirely well before now. I know how glad you will be to see Pa for I heard he had started for Evergreen. I am getting on very well indeed. The last time I went to see about my demerits which was two or three days ago I did not have a single one. I have made a 3 every day this week on Mathematick which is the highest mark. I believe I study harder than any one I know of here but I came here so late that I am not certain of standing the January examination.  We have very poor fare here. Today for breakfast we had only two pieces of bread and about a half gill of milk with what we call growly which is made of mutton beef beef feet or any other thing they can make for dinner. We have beef and cabbage or turnips one day and beef-steak and soup the next. We have nothing that I would have eaten at home but I am so hungry when I go to meals that I think even turnips delicious, but I live off of it very well. [Neph] is as fat as a hog and every one says I have fattened very much. I like here very much but do not like the idea of staying here two years before coming home. If you are sick please send for me. Miss Herriot is very anxious to get to you she was very kind indeed to me when I was at the Rockbridge with the Corps.  If Mr. M. and Mr. B. come out with a wagon send Mr. B. to the springs and Miss H. will certainly come. Give my best love to Cousins L. and M. and my dear Sister. Kiss my precious little darlings from Louis down. Do keep Louis at home. Make them all kiss you every night and morning for me. Take care of yourself my precious Mother. Write soon. Give my love to Francis \u0026 Mr. Spring and remember me to all the Neighbors and servants and believe me ever your devoted son. \n[Neph] sends his love to all. \nEdmund Berkely"],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eEdmund Berkeley letter, 1863 November 26. MS 0154. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["Edmund Berkeley letter, 1863 November 26. MS 0154. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of one letter from Edmund Berkeley to his mother Mary Lawson Berkeley (Williams). Berkeley has been informed of his sister's death and offers consolation to his mother. He also gives VMI news and complains about the food (early reference to \"growley\" a VMI slang word used for mess hall food).\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edmund Berkeley has been informed of his sister's death and offers consolation to his mother. He also gives VMI news and complains about the food (early reference to \"growley\" a VMI slang word used for mess hall food).\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection consists of one letter from Edmund Berkeley to his mother Mary Lawson Berkeley (Williams). Berkeley has been informed of his sister's death and offers consolation to his mother. He also gives VMI news and complains about the food (early reference to \"growley\" a VMI slang word used for mess hall food).","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edmund Berkeley has been informed of his sister's death and offers consolation to his mother. He also gives VMI news and complains about the food (early reference to \"growley\" a VMI slang word used for mess hall food)."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e"],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. 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Watson letter","creator":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618#creator","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887","label":"Creator"}},"abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of one letter (September 17, 1868) written by Edward M. Watson to his father. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study, recitation, drill, and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_618.xml","title_ssm":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"title_tesim":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"unitdate_ssm":["1868 September 17"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1868 September 17"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0011","/repositories/3/resources/618"],"text":["MS.0011","/repositories/3/resources/618","Edward M. Watson letter","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1872","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","Edward Minor Watson was born in 1851, the son of John W. C. Watson, a lawyer and judge. He entered VMI on September 14, 1868, from his home in Holly Springs, Mississippi and studied at VMI for one academic year, resigning his cadetship in 1869. Watson subsequently read law and received his license in 1871. He served as an attorney in the Department of Justice during President Grover Cleveland's first administration. Watson married Lily Moore of Noxubee County, Mississippi in 1871 and the couple had five children: Dudley, Edward, William, Jean, and Anne. He died on December 7, 1887.","V.M.I., Sept. 17th, 1868","Dear Pa,","As I expected when I wrote to Ma, I reported to Gen. Smith on Monday morning and went into barracks the same day. Now, as I promised to do before I left home, I will give an account of how I spent the next day after my arrival, and in doing that I tell what has passed every day since and will pass every day to come, Saturdays and Sundays excepted, for the next ten months.","I will begin my description just at 5 o'clock when I awakened by a most dreadful noise. I at first thought that the house was falling or that a volcano had burst in about a quarter of a mile from - I hardly knew where, as I found myself lying with nothing between me and floor except a mattress about three feet wide. I was soon enlightened as to the cause of the disturbance by an old cadet who in the dim light of the very early morning","[End of letter written vertically at right top]","Since finishing the last line I have received Jim's letter. Present the old fellow my compliments and tell him to do so some more. Tell Sister Cora please to write quick. I will write to Sis Lis in a few days. I intended to copy this letter but the drum is sounding and I must close. You must answer this soon. s/Eddie","morning, as he stood dressing close by, I had not noticed. He remarked in a tone which seemed anything but motherly, \"Rat, get up, Sir, and go to reveille.\" At this I opened my eyes somewhat wider, and remembering the state of affairs, I thought it best to do as he said. I got up and doing as he did, hurried on my clothes, not tying my shoes or washing my face or combing my hair, and rushed frantically down three flights of steps to the front of the barracks. All the cadets were there before me. We fell in companies and answered to our names as the Or. Sr. called the roll. We were then disbanded and were given ½ hour to make our toilets and clean up our room.","In cleaning up our room we have to take everything from the tables and chairs and put them in their proper place and have to roll up our beds in a bundle about 2 feet in diameter and lay them in a corner. At the end of the half hour the inspector visits and sees that everything is right. Then in a few minutes the drum calls us to the front and we fall in and after our names have been called we march into the breakfast room. Each one having reached the seat assigned assumes the position of a soldier and standing staring the boy on the opposite of the table in the face (who by the way in my case is mighty ugly), we have to wait until everybody has formed in his place. Then at the word \"be seated\" each head of the three hundred cadets bobs down and we commence eating.","At the end of fifteen minutes we are commanded to rise. We at the door again fall in and march round to the front, there we disband. For fifteen minutes we do what we please. Then the drum calls us to study. We recite until one o'clock when time is given for dinner. We march to dinner and march back as we did at breakfast. At 2 o'clock we are again called to study. At 4 o'clock we are dismissed. At 4 ½ we are called for evening drill. The drill lasts 1 ½ hours. We have then 15 minutes to fix for dress parade. After parade 5 minutes is given to change clothes. We then march to supper and the dinner ceremony is repeated. We have then 15 minutes, when we are called to study. We study until half past nine when we are called to tattoo. Then in five minutes the drum sounds for blowing out lights. The inspector visits immediately to see that everybody is in bed and then nothing is heard but the tread or challenge of the sentinel until five in the morning.","Now, Pa, when you remember that we are compelled to clean our shoes before falling in ranks every time and that it must be done well, for even a speck on the heel is noticed, you must know that I am right busy. Tell Sis Lizzie I have entered the third class and am studying mathematics, Descriptive Geometry. Give everybody my love and write soon. Tell Ma and Sister that I do love them a heap more for their letters which were received just when I was most homesick. Kiss Sister Cora and ask her please to write. Tell Jim to give my love to Miss Vee and fulfill his promise. \nGoodbye. \nYour Affectionate Son, \ns/ Eddie Watson, Cadet","This collection consists of one letter (September 17, 1868) written by Edward M. Watson to his father. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study, recitation, drill, and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edward M. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study and recitation, drill and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887","English \n.    "],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0011","/repositories/3/resources/618"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"collection_title_tesim":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"collection_ssim":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887"],"creator_ssim":["Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887"],"creators_ssim":["Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1872","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1872","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["1 items"],"extent_tesim":["1 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1868],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e"],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eEdward Minor Watson was born in 1851, the son of John W. C. Watson, a lawyer and judge. He entered VMI on September 14, 1868, from his home in Holly Springs, Mississippi and studied at VMI for one academic year, resigning his cadetship in 1869. Watson subsequently read law and received his license in 1871. He served as an attorney in the Department of Justice during President Grover Cleveland's first administration. Watson married Lily Moore of Noxubee County, Mississippi in 1871 and the couple had five children: Dudley, Edward, William, Jean, and Anne. He died on December 7, 1887.\u003c/p\u003e"],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Edward Minor Watson was born in 1851, the son of John W. C. Watson, a lawyer and judge. He entered VMI on September 14, 1868, from his home in Holly Springs, Mississippi and studied at VMI for one academic year, resigning his cadetship in 1869. Watson subsequently read law and received his license in 1871. He served as an attorney in the Department of Justice during President Grover Cleveland's first administration. Watson married Lily Moore of Noxubee County, Mississippi in 1871 and the couple had five children: Dudley, Edward, William, Jean, and Anne. He died on December 7, 1887."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV.M.I., Sept. 17th, 1868\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa,\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAs I expected when I wrote to Ma, I reported to Gen. Smith on Monday morning and went into barracks the same day. Now, as I promised to do before I left home, I will give an account of how I spent the next day after my arrival, and in doing that I tell what has passed every day since and will pass every day to come, Saturdays and Sundays excepted, for the next ten months.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI will begin my description just at 5 o'clock when I awakened by a most dreadful noise. I at first thought that the house was falling or that a volcano had burst in about a quarter of a mile from - I hardly knew where, as I found myself lying with nothing between me and floor except a mattress about three feet wide. I was soon enlightened as to the cause of the disturbance by an old cadet who in the dim light of the very early morning\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003e[End of letter written vertically at right top]\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSince finishing the last line I have received Jim's letter. Present the old fellow my compliments and tell him to do so some more. Tell Sister Cora please to write quick. I will write to Sis Lis in a few days. I intended to copy this letter but the drum is sounding and I must close. You must answer this soon. s/Eddie\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003emorning, as he stood dressing close by, I had not noticed. He remarked in a tone which seemed anything but motherly, \"Rat, get up, Sir, and go to reveille.\" At this I opened my eyes somewhat wider, and remembering the state of affairs, I thought it best to do as he said. I got up and doing as he did, hurried on my clothes, not tying my shoes or washing my face or combing my hair, and rushed frantically down three flights of steps to the front of the barracks. All the cadets were there before me. We fell in companies and answered to our names as the Or. Sr. called the roll. We were then disbanded and were given ½ hour to make our toilets and clean up our room.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIn cleaning up our room we have to take everything from the tables and chairs and put them in their proper place and have to roll up our beds in a bundle about 2 feet in diameter and lay them in a corner. At the end of the half hour the inspector visits and sees that everything is right. Then in a few minutes the drum calls us to the front and we fall in and after our names have been called we march into the breakfast room. Each one having reached the seat assigned assumes the position of a soldier and standing staring the boy on the opposite of the table in the face (who by the way in my case is mighty ugly), we have to wait until everybody has formed in his place. Then at the word \"be seated\" each head of the three hundred cadets bobs down and we commence eating.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAt the end of fifteen minutes we are commanded to rise. We at the door again fall in and march round to the front, there we disband. For fifteen minutes we do what we please. Then the drum calls us to study. We recite until one o'clock when time is given for dinner. We march to dinner and march back as we did at breakfast. At 2 o'clock we are again called to study. At 4 o'clock we are dismissed. At 4 ½ we are called for evening drill. The drill lasts 1 ½ hours. We have then 15 minutes to fix for dress parade. After parade 5 minutes is given to change clothes. We then march to supper and the dinner ceremony is repeated. We have then 15 minutes, when we are called to study. We study until half past nine when we are called to tattoo. Then in five minutes the drum sounds for blowing out lights. The inspector visits immediately to see that everybody is in bed and then nothing is heard but the tread or challenge of the sentinel until five in the morning.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eNow, Pa, when you remember that we are compelled to clean our shoes before falling in ranks every time and that it must be done well, for even a speck on the heel is noticed, you must know that I am right busy. Tell Sis Lizzie I have entered the third class and am studying mathematics, Descriptive Geometry. Give everybody my love and write soon. Tell Ma and Sister that I do love them a heap more for their letters which were received just when I was most homesick. Kiss Sister Cora and ask her please to write. Tell Jim to give my love to Miss Vee and fulfill his promise.\u003cbr\u003e\nGoodbye.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour Affectionate Son,\u003cbr\u003e\ns/ Eddie Watson, Cadet\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V.M.I., Sept. 17th, 1868","Dear Pa,","As I expected when I wrote to Ma, I reported to Gen. Smith on Monday morning and went into barracks the same day. Now, as I promised to do before I left home, I will give an account of how I spent the next day after my arrival, and in doing that I tell what has passed every day since and will pass every day to come, Saturdays and Sundays excepted, for the next ten months.","I will begin my description just at 5 o'clock when I awakened by a most dreadful noise. I at first thought that the house was falling or that a volcano had burst in about a quarter of a mile from - I hardly knew where, as I found myself lying with nothing between me and floor except a mattress about three feet wide. I was soon enlightened as to the cause of the disturbance by an old cadet who in the dim light of the very early morning","[End of letter written vertically at right top]","Since finishing the last line I have received Jim's letter. Present the old fellow my compliments and tell him to do so some more. Tell Sister Cora please to write quick. I will write to Sis Lis in a few days. I intended to copy this letter but the drum is sounding and I must close. You must answer this soon. s/Eddie","morning, as he stood dressing close by, I had not noticed. He remarked in a tone which seemed anything but motherly, \"Rat, get up, Sir, and go to reveille.\" At this I opened my eyes somewhat wider, and remembering the state of affairs, I thought it best to do as he said. I got up and doing as he did, hurried on my clothes, not tying my shoes or washing my face or combing my hair, and rushed frantically down three flights of steps to the front of the barracks. All the cadets were there before me. We fell in companies and answered to our names as the Or. Sr. called the roll. We were then disbanded and were given ½ hour to make our toilets and clean up our room.","In cleaning up our room we have to take everything from the tables and chairs and put them in their proper place and have to roll up our beds in a bundle about 2 feet in diameter and lay them in a corner. At the end of the half hour the inspector visits and sees that everything is right. Then in a few minutes the drum calls us to the front and we fall in and after our names have been called we march into the breakfast room. Each one having reached the seat assigned assumes the position of a soldier and standing staring the boy on the opposite of the table in the face (who by the way in my case is mighty ugly), we have to wait until everybody has formed in his place. Then at the word \"be seated\" each head of the three hundred cadets bobs down and we commence eating.","At the end of fifteen minutes we are commanded to rise. We at the door again fall in and march round to the front, there we disband. For fifteen minutes we do what we please. Then the drum calls us to study. We recite until one o'clock when time is given for dinner. We march to dinner and march back as we did at breakfast. At 2 o'clock we are again called to study. At 4 o'clock we are dismissed. At 4 ½ we are called for evening drill. The drill lasts 1 ½ hours. We have then 15 minutes to fix for dress parade. After parade 5 minutes is given to change clothes. We then march to supper and the dinner ceremony is repeated. We have then 15 minutes, when we are called to study. We study until half past nine when we are called to tattoo. Then in five minutes the drum sounds for blowing out lights. The inspector visits immediately to see that everybody is in bed and then nothing is heard but the tread or challenge of the sentinel until five in the morning.","Now, Pa, when you remember that we are compelled to clean our shoes before falling in ranks every time and that it must be done well, for even a speck on the heel is noticed, you must know that I am right busy. Tell Sis Lizzie I have entered the third class and am studying mathematics, Descriptive Geometry. Give everybody my love and write soon. Tell Ma and Sister that I do love them a heap more for their letters which were received just when I was most homesick. Kiss Sister Cora and ask her please to write. Tell Jim to give my love to Miss Vee and fulfill his promise. \nGoodbye. \nYour Affectionate Son, \ns/ Eddie Watson, Cadet"],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eEdward M. Watson ;etter, 1868 September 17. MS 0011. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["Edward M. Watson ;etter, 1868 September 17. MS 0011. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of one letter (September 17, 1868) written by Edward M. Watson to his father. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study, recitation, drill, and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edward M. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study and recitation, drill and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection consists of one letter (September 17, 1868) written by Edward M. Watson to his father. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study, recitation, drill, and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edward M. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study and recitation, drill and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e"],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_11d728f96281ccd10449421036e48d7c\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e"],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887"],"language_ssim":["English \n.    "],"total_component_count_is":1,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:10:53.151Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_618.xml","title_ssm":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"title_tesim":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"unitdate_ssm":["1868 September 17"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1868 September 17"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0011","/repositories/3/resources/618"],"text":["MS.0011","/repositories/3/resources/618","Edward M. Watson letter","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1872","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","Edward Minor Watson was born in 1851, the son of John W. C. Watson, a lawyer and judge. He entered VMI on September 14, 1868, from his home in Holly Springs, Mississippi and studied at VMI for one academic year, resigning his cadetship in 1869. Watson subsequently read law and received his license in 1871. He served as an attorney in the Department of Justice during President Grover Cleveland's first administration. Watson married Lily Moore of Noxubee County, Mississippi in 1871 and the couple had five children: Dudley, Edward, William, Jean, and Anne. He died on December 7, 1887.","V.M.I., Sept. 17th, 1868","Dear Pa,","As I expected when I wrote to Ma, I reported to Gen. Smith on Monday morning and went into barracks the same day. Now, as I promised to do before I left home, I will give an account of how I spent the next day after my arrival, and in doing that I tell what has passed every day since and will pass every day to come, Saturdays and Sundays excepted, for the next ten months.","I will begin my description just at 5 o'clock when I awakened by a most dreadful noise. I at first thought that the house was falling or that a volcano had burst in about a quarter of a mile from - I hardly knew where, as I found myself lying with nothing between me and floor except a mattress about three feet wide. I was soon enlightened as to the cause of the disturbance by an old cadet who in the dim light of the very early morning","[End of letter written vertically at right top]","Since finishing the last line I have received Jim's letter. Present the old fellow my compliments and tell him to do so some more. Tell Sister Cora please to write quick. I will write to Sis Lis in a few days. I intended to copy this letter but the drum is sounding and I must close. You must answer this soon. s/Eddie","morning, as he stood dressing close by, I had not noticed. He remarked in a tone which seemed anything but motherly, \"Rat, get up, Sir, and go to reveille.\" At this I opened my eyes somewhat wider, and remembering the state of affairs, I thought it best to do as he said. I got up and doing as he did, hurried on my clothes, not tying my shoes or washing my face or combing my hair, and rushed frantically down three flights of steps to the front of the barracks. All the cadets were there before me. We fell in companies and answered to our names as the Or. Sr. called the roll. We were then disbanded and were given ½ hour to make our toilets and clean up our room.","In cleaning up our room we have to take everything from the tables and chairs and put them in their proper place and have to roll up our beds in a bundle about 2 feet in diameter and lay them in a corner. At the end of the half hour the inspector visits and sees that everything is right. Then in a few minutes the drum calls us to the front and we fall in and after our names have been called we march into the breakfast room. Each one having reached the seat assigned assumes the position of a soldier and standing staring the boy on the opposite of the table in the face (who by the way in my case is mighty ugly), we have to wait until everybody has formed in his place. Then at the word \"be seated\" each head of the three hundred cadets bobs down and we commence eating.","At the end of fifteen minutes we are commanded to rise. We at the door again fall in and march round to the front, there we disband. For fifteen minutes we do what we please. Then the drum calls us to study. We recite until one o'clock when time is given for dinner. We march to dinner and march back as we did at breakfast. At 2 o'clock we are again called to study. At 4 o'clock we are dismissed. At 4 ½ we are called for evening drill. The drill lasts 1 ½ hours. We have then 15 minutes to fix for dress parade. After parade 5 minutes is given to change clothes. We then march to supper and the dinner ceremony is repeated. We have then 15 minutes, when we are called to study. We study until half past nine when we are called to tattoo. Then in five minutes the drum sounds for blowing out lights. The inspector visits immediately to see that everybody is in bed and then nothing is heard but the tread or challenge of the sentinel until five in the morning.","Now, Pa, when you remember that we are compelled to clean our shoes before falling in ranks every time and that it must be done well, for even a speck on the heel is noticed, you must know that I am right busy. Tell Sis Lizzie I have entered the third class and am studying mathematics, Descriptive Geometry. Give everybody my love and write soon. Tell Ma and Sister that I do love them a heap more for their letters which were received just when I was most homesick. Kiss Sister Cora and ask her please to write. Tell Jim to give my love to Miss Vee and fulfill his promise. \nGoodbye. \nYour Affectionate Son, \ns/ Eddie Watson, Cadet","This collection consists of one letter (September 17, 1868) written by Edward M. Watson to his father. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study, recitation, drill, and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edward M. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study and recitation, drill and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887","English \n.    "],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0011","/repositories/3/resources/618"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"collection_title_tesim":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"collection_ssim":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887"],"creator_ssim":["Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887"],"creators_ssim":["Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1872","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1872","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["1 items"],"extent_tesim":["1 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1868],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e"],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eEdward Minor Watson was born in 1851, the son of John W. C. Watson, a lawyer and judge. He entered VMI on September 14, 1868, from his home in Holly Springs, Mississippi and studied at VMI for one academic year, resigning his cadetship in 1869. Watson subsequently read law and received his license in 1871. He served as an attorney in the Department of Justice during President Grover Cleveland's first administration. Watson married Lily Moore of Noxubee County, Mississippi in 1871 and the couple had five children: Dudley, Edward, William, Jean, and Anne. He died on December 7, 1887.\u003c/p\u003e"],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Edward Minor Watson was born in 1851, the son of John W. C. Watson, a lawyer and judge. He entered VMI on September 14, 1868, from his home in Holly Springs, Mississippi and studied at VMI for one academic year, resigning his cadetship in 1869. Watson subsequently read law and received his license in 1871. He served as an attorney in the Department of Justice during President Grover Cleveland's first administration. Watson married Lily Moore of Noxubee County, Mississippi in 1871 and the couple had five children: Dudley, Edward, William, Jean, and Anne. He died on December 7, 1887."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV.M.I., Sept. 17th, 1868\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa,\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAs I expected when I wrote to Ma, I reported to Gen. Smith on Monday morning and went into barracks the same day. Now, as I promised to do before I left home, I will give an account of how I spent the next day after my arrival, and in doing that I tell what has passed every day since and will pass every day to come, Saturdays and Sundays excepted, for the next ten months.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI will begin my description just at 5 o'clock when I awakened by a most dreadful noise. I at first thought that the house was falling or that a volcano had burst in about a quarter of a mile from - I hardly knew where, as I found myself lying with nothing between me and floor except a mattress about three feet wide. I was soon enlightened as to the cause of the disturbance by an old cadet who in the dim light of the very early morning\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003e[End of letter written vertically at right top]\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSince finishing the last line I have received Jim's letter. Present the old fellow my compliments and tell him to do so some more. Tell Sister Cora please to write quick. I will write to Sis Lis in a few days. I intended to copy this letter but the drum is sounding and I must close. You must answer this soon. s/Eddie\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003emorning, as he stood dressing close by, I had not noticed. He remarked in a tone which seemed anything but motherly, \"Rat, get up, Sir, and go to reveille.\" At this I opened my eyes somewhat wider, and remembering the state of affairs, I thought it best to do as he said. I got up and doing as he did, hurried on my clothes, not tying my shoes or washing my face or combing my hair, and rushed frantically down three flights of steps to the front of the barracks. All the cadets were there before me. We fell in companies and answered to our names as the Or. Sr. called the roll. We were then disbanded and were given ½ hour to make our toilets and clean up our room.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIn cleaning up our room we have to take everything from the tables and chairs and put them in their proper place and have to roll up our beds in a bundle about 2 feet in diameter and lay them in a corner. At the end of the half hour the inspector visits and sees that everything is right. Then in a few minutes the drum calls us to the front and we fall in and after our names have been called we march into the breakfast room. Each one having reached the seat assigned assumes the position of a soldier and standing staring the boy on the opposite of the table in the face (who by the way in my case is mighty ugly), we have to wait until everybody has formed in his place. Then at the word \"be seated\" each head of the three hundred cadets bobs down and we commence eating.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAt the end of fifteen minutes we are commanded to rise. We at the door again fall in and march round to the front, there we disband. For fifteen minutes we do what we please. Then the drum calls us to study. We recite until one o'clock when time is given for dinner. We march to dinner and march back as we did at breakfast. At 2 o'clock we are again called to study. At 4 o'clock we are dismissed. At 4 ½ we are called for evening drill. The drill lasts 1 ½ hours. We have then 15 minutes to fix for dress parade. After parade 5 minutes is given to change clothes. We then march to supper and the dinner ceremony is repeated. We have then 15 minutes, when we are called to study. We study until half past nine when we are called to tattoo. Then in five minutes the drum sounds for blowing out lights. The inspector visits immediately to see that everybody is in bed and then nothing is heard but the tread or challenge of the sentinel until five in the morning.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eNow, Pa, when you remember that we are compelled to clean our shoes before falling in ranks every time and that it must be done well, for even a speck on the heel is noticed, you must know that I am right busy. Tell Sis Lizzie I have entered the third class and am studying mathematics, Descriptive Geometry. Give everybody my love and write soon. Tell Ma and Sister that I do love them a heap more for their letters which were received just when I was most homesick. Kiss Sister Cora and ask her please to write. Tell Jim to give my love to Miss Vee and fulfill his promise.\u003cbr\u003e\nGoodbye.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour Affectionate Son,\u003cbr\u003e\ns/ Eddie Watson, Cadet\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V.M.I., Sept. 17th, 1868","Dear Pa,","As I expected when I wrote to Ma, I reported to Gen. Smith on Monday morning and went into barracks the same day. Now, as I promised to do before I left home, I will give an account of how I spent the next day after my arrival, and in doing that I tell what has passed every day since and will pass every day to come, Saturdays and Sundays excepted, for the next ten months.","I will begin my description just at 5 o'clock when I awakened by a most dreadful noise. I at first thought that the house was falling or that a volcano had burst in about a quarter of a mile from - I hardly knew where, as I found myself lying with nothing between me and floor except a mattress about three feet wide. I was soon enlightened as to the cause of the disturbance by an old cadet who in the dim light of the very early morning","[End of letter written vertically at right top]","Since finishing the last line I have received Jim's letter. Present the old fellow my compliments and tell him to do so some more. Tell Sister Cora please to write quick. I will write to Sis Lis in a few days. I intended to copy this letter but the drum is sounding and I must close. You must answer this soon. s/Eddie","morning, as he stood dressing close by, I had not noticed. He remarked in a tone which seemed anything but motherly, \"Rat, get up, Sir, and go to reveille.\" At this I opened my eyes somewhat wider, and remembering the state of affairs, I thought it best to do as he said. I got up and doing as he did, hurried on my clothes, not tying my shoes or washing my face or combing my hair, and rushed frantically down three flights of steps to the front of the barracks. All the cadets were there before me. We fell in companies and answered to our names as the Or. Sr. called the roll. We were then disbanded and were given ½ hour to make our toilets and clean up our room.","In cleaning up our room we have to take everything from the tables and chairs and put them in their proper place and have to roll up our beds in a bundle about 2 feet in diameter and lay them in a corner. At the end of the half hour the inspector visits and sees that everything is right. Then in a few minutes the drum calls us to the front and we fall in and after our names have been called we march into the breakfast room. Each one having reached the seat assigned assumes the position of a soldier and standing staring the boy on the opposite of the table in the face (who by the way in my case is mighty ugly), we have to wait until everybody has formed in his place. Then at the word \"be seated\" each head of the three hundred cadets bobs down and we commence eating.","At the end of fifteen minutes we are commanded to rise. We at the door again fall in and march round to the front, there we disband. For fifteen minutes we do what we please. Then the drum calls us to study. We recite until one o'clock when time is given for dinner. We march to dinner and march back as we did at breakfast. At 2 o'clock we are again called to study. At 4 o'clock we are dismissed. At 4 ½ we are called for evening drill. The drill lasts 1 ½ hours. We have then 15 minutes to fix for dress parade. After parade 5 minutes is given to change clothes. We then march to supper and the dinner ceremony is repeated. We have then 15 minutes, when we are called to study. We study until half past nine when we are called to tattoo. Then in five minutes the drum sounds for blowing out lights. The inspector visits immediately to see that everybody is in bed and then nothing is heard but the tread or challenge of the sentinel until five in the morning.","Now, Pa, when you remember that we are compelled to clean our shoes before falling in ranks every time and that it must be done well, for even a speck on the heel is noticed, you must know that I am right busy. Tell Sis Lizzie I have entered the third class and am studying mathematics, Descriptive Geometry. Give everybody my love and write soon. Tell Ma and Sister that I do love them a heap more for their letters which were received just when I was most homesick. Kiss Sister Cora and ask her please to write. Tell Jim to give my love to Miss Vee and fulfill his promise. \nGoodbye. \nYour Affectionate Son, \ns/ Eddie Watson, Cadet"],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eEdward M. Watson ;etter, 1868 September 17. MS 0011. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["Edward M. Watson ;etter, 1868 September 17. MS 0011. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of one letter (September 17, 1868) written by Edward M. Watson to his father. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study, recitation, drill, and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edward M. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study and recitation, drill and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection consists of one letter (September 17, 1868) written by Edward M. Watson to his father. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study, recitation, drill, and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edward M. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study and recitation, drill and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e"],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_11d728f96281ccd10449421036e48d7c\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e"],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887"],"language_ssim":["English \n.    "],"total_component_count_is":1,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:10:53.151Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","type":"collection","attributes":{"title":"James H. Reid papers","creator":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613#creator","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","label":"Creator"}},"abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eThe James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_613.xml","aspace_url_ssi":"http://ead.lib.virginia.edu/vivaxtf/view?docId=vmi/vilxv00028.xml","title_ssm":["James H. Reid papers"],"title_tesim":["James H. Reid papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1862-1867"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1862-1867"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613"],"text":["MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613","James H. Reid papers","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","A portion of the James H. Reid papers are avaliable \n online .","James Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.","During the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia.","V.M.I. \nAug 10, 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026 staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026 went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026 Read went to town.","After supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026 was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026 wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026 drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026 got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026 made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026 sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026 Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026 saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.","I went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026 am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026 I can hardly write. \nWith love to all I remain.","Your affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026 and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026 every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.","VMI Aug 14, 1862","Dear Pa \nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026 was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.","I have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026 I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.","Our studies are math \u0026 French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026 some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026 none have made 15 since I have been here.","I got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026 none since. I got off from all of them \u0026 all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026 supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026 taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.","I like the V.M.I very much \u0026 do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026 I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.","I have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026 T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026 accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.","Our clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026 Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026 an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026 caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026 hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026 they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026 long. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026 Mrs. Brown \u0026 every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026 sends his love. Henry.","V.M.I. Aug 18 1862","Dear Pa \nThe desk \u0026 was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026 got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026 Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026 sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026 sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.","One of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026 had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026 arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026 stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026 overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026 Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.","Don't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.","My left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026 returned are very hard on Rats \u0026 I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"","I will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Remember me to all my friends \u0026 write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026. My pillow is a great deal of use.","V.M.I. Aug 26 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.","In regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026 finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026 all of them have gone home some days ago.","I have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026 Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.","We Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.","In place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026 drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026 tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.","I have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026 keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026 if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026 I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all, \nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","It takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026 Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.","V.M.I. Aug 28 1862","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026 did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026 apples all recd safe \u0026 sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026.","I have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.","My finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026 overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026 small Va staff buttons.","V.M.I. Sep 14 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026.","Gen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026 write you immediately.","Since the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026 Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026 Tattoo at 9½.","The last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026 I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.","Over 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026 of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026 did not even run for the 3rd class.","I have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026 is responsible for noises \u0026). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026 I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.","I am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026 would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.","If our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026 let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.","Ten cadets deserted the other day \u0026 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026 all my friends.","I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Sep 20, 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.","When I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026 by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026 a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026 fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026 my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.","I have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026 the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026 double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026 came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026 he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.","I have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.","I asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026 overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026 the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,","I remain, \nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.","P.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026.","V.M.I. Sept 27 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"","It seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026 buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.","I can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday.","I have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026 got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026 I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026 expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.","I must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V .M.I. Sept 30 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.","Speaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.","I have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026 have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.","I have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"","I have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026 is responsible for all trifling \u0026 talking in ranks \u0026c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.","What is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026 returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026 all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Please don't forget the cap cover \u0026 skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026 was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026 myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026 you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.","V.M.I. Oct 5 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026 apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026 pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026 if he gives me jacket \u0026 pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026 I can easily sell it.","Pa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026 that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026 there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026 got some boys to help me \u0026 got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.","Maj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026 Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026 somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026 if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.","I must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026 letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026 I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026 jelly \u0026. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026 keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026 have very good eating.","If I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026 will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.","You need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026 before I could get to my room \u0026 get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026 I don't think I will get any more demerit.","Wm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.","As well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026 Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026 were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026 dates.","My ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026 stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.","I have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.","I went up town to day \u0026 had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026 will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.","V.M.I. Oct 26 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026 I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.","You may sell my Jacket \u0026 Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026 pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026 keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.","I have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026 reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.","I have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026 I am sure I will need them.","They have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026 if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026 going out \u0026 drilling an hour.","How do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026 tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.","V.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.","Dear Pa \nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026 thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.","Gen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026 Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.","I had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026 I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026 skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.","I know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.","I have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026 at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.","I do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026 ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026 milk all the winter.","We get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026 drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.","(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026 will have a treat in reading them.","Dr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026 sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026 will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.","Gen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026 no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026 so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.","I am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026 wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.","There is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026 resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"","I do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026 am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.","I recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026 what he is doing. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ Henry Reid.","P.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026 see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard? \nHenry","Camp Carter's Station \nMarch 7th 1864","Dear Pa \nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.","We have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.","Besides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.","I must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","P.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026 send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.","Direct Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps.","The James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.","The papers also contain one letter (dated March 7 1864) written while Reid was serving with the 13th Virginia Light Artillery Regiment, Confederate States of America, and four letters that date between 1865 and 1867.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from Camp at Carter's Station. Letter regards life at camp.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","English \n.    "],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613"],"normalized_title_ssm":["James H. Reid papers"],"collection_title_tesim":["James H. Reid papers"],"collection_ssim":["James H. Reid papers"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"creator_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"creators_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["18 items"],"extent_tesim":["18 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1862,1863,1864,1865,1866,1867],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e"],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"altformavail_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eA portion of the James H. Reid papers are avaliable \n\u003ca href=\"http://digitalcollections.vmi.edu/cdm/ref/collection/p15821coll11/id/2010\"\u003eonline\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e"],"altformavail_heading_ssm":["Online Access"],"altformavail_tesim":["A portion of the James H. Reid papers are avaliable \n online ."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDuring the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["James Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.","During the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV.M.I.\u003cbr\u003e\nAug 10, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026amp; staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026amp; went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026amp; Read went to town.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAfter supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026amp; was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026amp; wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026amp; drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026amp; got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026amp; made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026amp; sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026amp; Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026amp; saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026amp; am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026amp; I can hardly write.\u003cbr\u003e\nWith love to all I remain.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026amp; and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026amp; every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVMI Aug 14, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026amp; was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026amp;, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026amp; I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOur studies are math \u0026amp; French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026amp; some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026amp; 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026amp; none have made 15 since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026amp; none since. I got off from all of them \u0026amp; all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026amp; supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026amp; taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI like the V.M.I very much \u0026amp; do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026amp; I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026amp; T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026amp; accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOur clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026amp; Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026amp; an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026amp; caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026amp; hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026amp; they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026amp;c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026amp; long.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026amp; Mrs. Brown \u0026amp; every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026amp; sends his love. Henry.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 18 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nThe desk \u0026amp; was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026amp; got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026amp; Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026amp;. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026amp; sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026amp; sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOne of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026amp; had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026amp; arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026amp; stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026amp; overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026amp; Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDon't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026amp;. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026amp; returned are very hard on Rats \u0026amp; I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eRemember me to all my friends \u0026amp; write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026amp;. My pillow is a great deal of use.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 26 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIn regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026amp; finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026amp; all of them have gone home some days ago.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026amp; Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWe Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026amp; 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026amp; 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIn place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026amp; drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026amp; tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026amp; keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026amp; if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026amp; I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIt takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026amp; Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026amp; 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 28 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa \u0026amp; Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026amp; did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026amp; apples all recd safe \u0026amp; sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026amp;\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026amp; 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026amp; 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026amp; overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026amp; small Va staff buttons.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sep 14 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026amp; write you immediately.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSince the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026amp; Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026amp; Tattoo at 9½.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026amp; 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026amp; I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOver 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026amp; of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026amp; did not even run for the 3rd class.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026amp; is responsible for noises \u0026amp;). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026amp; I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026amp; would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIf our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026amp; let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eTen cadets deserted the other day \u0026amp; 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026amp; all my friends.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI remain\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sep 20, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWhen I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026amp; by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026amp; a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026amp; fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026amp; my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026amp; 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026amp; the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026amp; double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026amp; came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026amp; he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026amp; get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026amp; overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026amp; the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sept 27 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIt seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026amp; buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026amp; get it on Saturday.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026amp; got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026amp;. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026amp; I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026amp; expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV .M.I. Sept 30 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSpeaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026amp; have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026amp; is responsible for all trifling \u0026amp; talking in ranks \u0026amp;c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWhat is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026amp; returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026amp; all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003ePlease don't forget the cap cover \u0026amp; skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026amp; was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026amp; myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026amp;c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026amp; you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 5 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026amp; apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026amp; pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026amp; if he gives me jacket \u0026amp; pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026amp; I can easily sell it.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003ePa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026amp; that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026amp; there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026amp; got some boys to help me \u0026amp; got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMaj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026amp; 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026amp; Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026amp; somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026amp; if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa \u0026amp; Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026amp; letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026amp; I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026amp; jelly \u0026amp;. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026amp; keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026amp; have very good eating.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIf I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026amp; will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYou need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026amp; before I could get to my room \u0026amp; get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026amp; 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026amp; I don't think I will get any more demerit.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAs well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026amp; Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026amp; were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026amp; dates.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026amp; stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI went up town to day \u0026amp; had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026amp; will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 26 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026amp; I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYou may sell my Jacket \u0026amp; Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026amp; pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026amp; keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026amp; 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026amp; reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026amp; I am sure I will need them.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThey have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026amp; if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026amp; going out \u0026amp; drilling an hour.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eHow do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026amp; tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026amp; thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026amp; Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026amp; I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026amp;. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026amp; skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026amp; at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026amp; ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026amp; milk all the winter.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWe get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026amp; drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003e(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026amp; will have a treat in reading them.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026amp; sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026amp; will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026amp; no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026amp; so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026amp; wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThere is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026amp; resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026amp; am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026amp; what he is doing. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026amp; see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard?\u003cbr\u003e\nHenry\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp Carter's Station\u003cbr\u003e\nMarch 7th 1864\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWe have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eBesides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026amp;. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026amp; send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDirect Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V.M.I. \nAug 10, 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026 staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026 went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026 Read went to town.","After supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026 was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026 wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026 drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026 got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026 made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026 sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026 Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026 saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.","I went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026 am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026 I can hardly write. \nWith love to all I remain.","Your affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026 and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026 every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.","VMI Aug 14, 1862","Dear Pa \nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026 was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.","I have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026 I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.","Our studies are math \u0026 French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026 some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026 none have made 15 since I have been here.","I got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026 none since. I got off from all of them \u0026 all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026 supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026 taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.","I like the V.M.I very much \u0026 do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026 I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.","I have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026 T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026 accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.","Our clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026 Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026 an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026 caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026 hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026 they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026 long. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026 Mrs. Brown \u0026 every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026 sends his love. Henry.","V.M.I. Aug 18 1862","Dear Pa \nThe desk \u0026 was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026 got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026 Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026 sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026 sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.","One of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026 had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026 arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026 stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026 overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026 Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.","Don't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.","My left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026 returned are very hard on Rats \u0026 I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"","I will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Remember me to all my friends \u0026 write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026. My pillow is a great deal of use.","V.M.I. Aug 26 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.","In regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026 finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026 all of them have gone home some days ago.","I have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026 Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.","We Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.","In place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026 drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026 tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.","I have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026 keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026 if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026 I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all, \nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","It takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026 Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.","V.M.I. Aug 28 1862","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026 did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026 apples all recd safe \u0026 sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026.","I have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.","My finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026 overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026 small Va staff buttons.","V.M.I. Sep 14 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026.","Gen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026 write you immediately.","Since the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026 Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026 Tattoo at 9½.","The last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026 I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.","Over 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026 of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026 did not even run for the 3rd class.","I have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026 is responsible for noises \u0026). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026 I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.","I am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026 would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.","If our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026 let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.","Ten cadets deserted the other day \u0026 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026 all my friends.","I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Sep 20, 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.","When I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026 by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026 a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026 fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026 my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.","I have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026 the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026 double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026 came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026 he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.","I have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.","I asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026 overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026 the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,","I remain, \nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.","P.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026.","V.M.I. Sept 27 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"","It seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026 buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.","I can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday.","I have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026 got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026 I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026 expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.","I must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V .M.I. Sept 30 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.","Speaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.","I have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026 have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.","I have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"","I have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026 is responsible for all trifling \u0026 talking in ranks \u0026c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.","What is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026 returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026 all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Please don't forget the cap cover \u0026 skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026 was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026 myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026 you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.","V.M.I. Oct 5 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026 apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026 pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026 if he gives me jacket \u0026 pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026 I can easily sell it.","Pa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026 that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026 there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026 got some boys to help me \u0026 got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.","Maj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026 Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026 somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026 if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.","I must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026 letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026 I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026 jelly \u0026. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026 keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026 have very good eating.","If I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026 will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.","You need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026 before I could get to my room \u0026 get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026 I don't think I will get any more demerit.","Wm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.","As well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026 Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026 were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026 dates.","My ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026 stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.","I have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.","I went up town to day \u0026 had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026 will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.","V.M.I. Oct 26 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026 I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.","You may sell my Jacket \u0026 Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026 pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026 keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.","I have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026 reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.","I have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026 I am sure I will need them.","They have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026 if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026 going out \u0026 drilling an hour.","How do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026 tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.","V.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.","Dear Pa \nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026 thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.","Gen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026 Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.","I had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026 I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026 skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.","I know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.","I have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026 at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.","I do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026 ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026 milk all the winter.","We get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026 drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.","(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026 will have a treat in reading them.","Dr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026 sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026 will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.","Gen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026 no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026 so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.","I am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026 wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.","There is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026 resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"","I do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026 am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.","I recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026 what he is doing. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ Henry Reid.","P.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026 see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard? \nHenry","Camp Carter's Station \nMarch 7th 1864","Dear Pa \nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.","We have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.","Besides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.","I must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","P.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026 send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.","Direct Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames H. Reid papers, 1862-1867. MS 0222. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["James H. Reid papers, 1862-1867. MS 0222. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe papers also contain one letter (dated March 7 1864) written while Reid was serving with the 13th Virginia Light Artillery Regiment, Confederate States of America, and four letters that date between 1865 and 1867.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Camp at Carter's Station. Letter regards life at camp.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.","The papers also contain one letter (dated March 7 1864) written while Reid was serving with the 13th Virginia Light Artillery Regiment, Confederate States of America, and four letters that date between 1865 and 1867.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from Camp at Carter's Station. Letter regards life at camp."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e"],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_b7b56d7445b436a790a7777302cc9008\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e"],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"names_coll_ssim":["Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878"],"persname_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"language_ssim":["English \n.    "],"total_component_count_is":19,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:09:24.880Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_613.xml","aspace_url_ssi":"http://ead.lib.virginia.edu/vivaxtf/view?docId=vmi/vilxv00028.xml","title_ssm":["James H. Reid papers"],"title_tesim":["James H. Reid papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1862-1867"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1862-1867"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613"],"text":["MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613","James H. Reid papers","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","A portion of the James H. Reid papers are avaliable \n online .","James Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.","During the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia.","V.M.I. \nAug 10, 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026 staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026 went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026 Read went to town.","After supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026 was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026 wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026 drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026 got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026 made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026 sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026 Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026 saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.","I went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026 am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026 I can hardly write. \nWith love to all I remain.","Your affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026 and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026 every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.","VMI Aug 14, 1862","Dear Pa \nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026 was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.","I have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026 I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.","Our studies are math \u0026 French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026 some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026 none have made 15 since I have been here.","I got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026 none since. I got off from all of them \u0026 all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026 supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026 taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.","I like the V.M.I very much \u0026 do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026 I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.","I have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026 T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026 accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.","Our clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026 Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026 an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026 caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026 hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026 they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026 long. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026 Mrs. Brown \u0026 every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026 sends his love. Henry.","V.M.I. Aug 18 1862","Dear Pa \nThe desk \u0026 was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026 got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026 Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026 sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026 sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.","One of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026 had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026 arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026 stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026 overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026 Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.","Don't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.","My left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026 returned are very hard on Rats \u0026 I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"","I will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Remember me to all my friends \u0026 write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026. My pillow is a great deal of use.","V.M.I. Aug 26 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.","In regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026 finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026 all of them have gone home some days ago.","I have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026 Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.","We Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.","In place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026 drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026 tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.","I have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026 keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026 if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026 I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all, \nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","It takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026 Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.","V.M.I. Aug 28 1862","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026 did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026 apples all recd safe \u0026 sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026.","I have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.","My finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026 overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026 small Va staff buttons.","V.M.I. Sep 14 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026.","Gen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026 write you immediately.","Since the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026 Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026 Tattoo at 9½.","The last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026 I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.","Over 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026 of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026 did not even run for the 3rd class.","I have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026 is responsible for noises \u0026). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026 I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.","I am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026 would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.","If our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026 let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.","Ten cadets deserted the other day \u0026 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026 all my friends.","I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Sep 20, 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.","When I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026 by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026 a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026 fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026 my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.","I have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026 the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026 double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026 came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026 he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.","I have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.","I asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026 overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026 the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,","I remain, \nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.","P.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026.","V.M.I. Sept 27 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"","It seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026 buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.","I can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday.","I have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026 got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026 I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026 expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.","I must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V .M.I. Sept 30 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.","Speaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.","I have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026 have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.","I have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"","I have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026 is responsible for all trifling \u0026 talking in ranks \u0026c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.","What is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026 returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026 all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Please don't forget the cap cover \u0026 skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026 was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026 myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026 you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.","V.M.I. Oct 5 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026 apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026 pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026 if he gives me jacket \u0026 pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026 I can easily sell it.","Pa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026 that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026 there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026 got some boys to help me \u0026 got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.","Maj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026 Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026 somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026 if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.","I must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026 letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026 I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026 jelly \u0026. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026 keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026 have very good eating.","If I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026 will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.","You need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026 before I could get to my room \u0026 get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026 I don't think I will get any more demerit.","Wm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.","As well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026 Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026 were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026 dates.","My ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026 stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.","I have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.","I went up town to day \u0026 had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026 will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.","V.M.I. Oct 26 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026 I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.","You may sell my Jacket \u0026 Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026 pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026 keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.","I have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026 reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.","I have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026 I am sure I will need them.","They have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026 if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026 going out \u0026 drilling an hour.","How do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026 tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.","V.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.","Dear Pa \nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026 thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.","Gen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026 Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.","I had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026 I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026 skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.","I know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.","I have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026 at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.","I do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026 ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026 milk all the winter.","We get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026 drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.","(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026 will have a treat in reading them.","Dr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026 sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026 will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.","Gen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026 no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026 so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.","I am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026 wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.","There is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026 resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"","I do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026 am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.","I recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026 what he is doing. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ Henry Reid.","P.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026 see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard? \nHenry","Camp Carter's Station \nMarch 7th 1864","Dear Pa \nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.","We have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.","Besides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.","I must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","P.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026 send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.","Direct Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps.","The James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.","The papers also contain one letter (dated March 7 1864) written while Reid was serving with the 13th Virginia Light Artillery Regiment, Confederate States of America, and four letters that date between 1865 and 1867.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from Camp at Carter's Station. Letter regards life at camp.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","English \n.    "],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613"],"normalized_title_ssm":["James H. Reid papers"],"collection_title_tesim":["James H. Reid papers"],"collection_ssim":["James H. Reid papers"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"creator_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"creators_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["18 items"],"extent_tesim":["18 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1862,1863,1864,1865,1866,1867],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e"],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"altformavail_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eA portion of the James H. Reid papers are avaliable \n\u003ca href=\"http://digitalcollections.vmi.edu/cdm/ref/collection/p15821coll11/id/2010\"\u003eonline\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e"],"altformavail_heading_ssm":["Online Access"],"altformavail_tesim":["A portion of the James H. Reid papers are avaliable \n online ."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDuring the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["James Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.","During the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV.M.I.\u003cbr\u003e\nAug 10, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026amp; staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026amp; went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026amp; Read went to town.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAfter supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026amp; was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026amp; wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026amp; drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026amp; got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026amp; made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026amp; sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026amp; Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026amp; saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026amp; am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026amp; I can hardly write.\u003cbr\u003e\nWith love to all I remain.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026amp; and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026amp; every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVMI Aug 14, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026amp; was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026amp;, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026amp; I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOur studies are math \u0026amp; French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026amp; some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026amp; 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026amp; none have made 15 since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026amp; none since. I got off from all of them \u0026amp; all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026amp; supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026amp; taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI like the V.M.I very much \u0026amp; do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026amp; I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026amp; T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026amp; accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOur clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026amp; Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026amp; an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026amp; caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026amp; hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026amp; they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026amp;c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026amp; long.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026amp; Mrs. Brown \u0026amp; every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026amp; sends his love. Henry.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 18 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nThe desk \u0026amp; was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026amp; got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026amp; Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026amp;. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026amp; sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026amp; sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOne of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026amp; had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026amp; arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026amp; stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026amp; overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026amp; Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDon't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026amp;. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026amp; returned are very hard on Rats \u0026amp; I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eRemember me to all my friends \u0026amp; write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026amp;. My pillow is a great deal of use.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 26 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIn regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026amp; finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026amp; all of them have gone home some days ago.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026amp; Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWe Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026amp; 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026amp; 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIn place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026amp; drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026amp; tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026amp; keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026amp; if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026amp; I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIt takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026amp; Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026amp; 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 28 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa \u0026amp; Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026amp; did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026amp; apples all recd safe \u0026amp; sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026amp;\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026amp; 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026amp; 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026amp; overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026amp; small Va staff buttons.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sep 14 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026amp; write you immediately.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSince the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026amp; Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026amp; Tattoo at 9½.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026amp; 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026amp; I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOver 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026amp; of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026amp; did not even run for the 3rd class.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026amp; is responsible for noises \u0026amp;). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026amp; I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026amp; would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIf our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026amp; let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eTen cadets deserted the other day \u0026amp; 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026amp; all my friends.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI remain\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sep 20, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWhen I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026amp; by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026amp; a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026amp; fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026amp; my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026amp; 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026amp; the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026amp; double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026amp; came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026amp; he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026amp; get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026amp; overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026amp; the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sept 27 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIt seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026amp; buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026amp; get it on Saturday.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026amp; got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026amp;. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026amp; I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026amp; expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV .M.I. Sept 30 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSpeaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026amp; have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026amp; is responsible for all trifling \u0026amp; talking in ranks \u0026amp;c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWhat is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026amp; returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026amp; all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003ePlease don't forget the cap cover \u0026amp; skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026amp; was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026amp; myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026amp;c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026amp; you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 5 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026amp; apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026amp; pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026amp; if he gives me jacket \u0026amp; pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026amp; I can easily sell it.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003ePa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026amp; that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026amp; there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026amp; got some boys to help me \u0026amp; got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMaj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026amp; 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026amp; Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026amp; somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026amp; if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa \u0026amp; Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026amp; letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026amp; I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026amp; jelly \u0026amp;. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026amp; keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026amp; have very good eating.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIf I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026amp; will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYou need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026amp; before I could get to my room \u0026amp; get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026amp; 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026amp; I don't think I will get any more demerit.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAs well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026amp; Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026amp; were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026amp; dates.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026amp; stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI went up town to day \u0026amp; had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026amp; will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 26 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026amp; I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYou may sell my Jacket \u0026amp; Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026amp; pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026amp; keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026amp; 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026amp; reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026amp; I am sure I will need them.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThey have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026amp; if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026amp; going out \u0026amp; drilling an hour.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eHow do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026amp; tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026amp; thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026amp; Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026amp; I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026amp;. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026amp; skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026amp; at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026amp; ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026amp; milk all the winter.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWe get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026amp; drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003e(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026amp; will have a treat in reading them.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026amp; sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026amp; will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026amp; no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026amp; so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026amp; wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThere is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026amp; resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026amp; am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026amp; what he is doing. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026amp; see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard?\u003cbr\u003e\nHenry\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp Carter's Station\u003cbr\u003e\nMarch 7th 1864\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWe have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eBesides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026amp;. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026amp; send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDirect Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V.M.I. \nAug 10, 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026 staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026 went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026 Read went to town.","After supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026 was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026 wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026 drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026 got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026 made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026 sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026 Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026 saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.","I went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026 am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026 I can hardly write. \nWith love to all I remain.","Your affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026 and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026 every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.","VMI Aug 14, 1862","Dear Pa \nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026 was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.","I have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026 I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.","Our studies are math \u0026 French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026 some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026 none have made 15 since I have been here.","I got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026 none since. I got off from all of them \u0026 all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026 supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026 taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.","I like the V.M.I very much \u0026 do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026 I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.","I have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026 T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026 accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.","Our clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026 Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026 an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026 caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026 hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026 they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026 long. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026 Mrs. Brown \u0026 every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026 sends his love. Henry.","V.M.I. Aug 18 1862","Dear Pa \nThe desk \u0026 was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026 got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026 Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026 sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026 sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.","One of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026 had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026 arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026 stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026 overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026 Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.","Don't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.","My left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026 returned are very hard on Rats \u0026 I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"","I will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Remember me to all my friends \u0026 write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026. My pillow is a great deal of use.","V.M.I. Aug 26 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.","In regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026 finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026 all of them have gone home some days ago.","I have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026 Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.","We Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.","In place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026 drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026 tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.","I have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026 keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026 if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026 I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all, \nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","It takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026 Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.","V.M.I. Aug 28 1862","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026 did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026 apples all recd safe \u0026 sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026.","I have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.","My finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026 overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026 small Va staff buttons.","V.M.I. Sep 14 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026.","Gen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026 write you immediately.","Since the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026 Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026 Tattoo at 9½.","The last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026 I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.","Over 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026 of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026 did not even run for the 3rd class.","I have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026 is responsible for noises \u0026). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026 I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.","I am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026 would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.","If our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026 let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.","Ten cadets deserted the other day \u0026 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026 all my friends.","I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Sep 20, 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.","When I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026 by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026 a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026 fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026 my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.","I have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026 the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026 double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026 came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026 he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.","I have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.","I asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026 overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026 the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,","I remain, \nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.","P.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026.","V.M.I. Sept 27 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"","It seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026 buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.","I can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday.","I have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026 got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026 I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026 expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.","I must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V .M.I. Sept 30 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.","Speaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.","I have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026 have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.","I have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"","I have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026 is responsible for all trifling \u0026 talking in ranks \u0026c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.","What is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026 returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026 all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Please don't forget the cap cover \u0026 skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026 was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026 myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026 you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.","V.M.I. Oct 5 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026 apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026 pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026 if he gives me jacket \u0026 pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026 I can easily sell it.","Pa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026 that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026 there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026 got some boys to help me \u0026 got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.","Maj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026 Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026 somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026 if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.","I must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026 letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026 I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026 jelly \u0026. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026 keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026 have very good eating.","If I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026 will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.","You need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026 before I could get to my room \u0026 get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026 I don't think I will get any more demerit.","Wm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.","As well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026 Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026 were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026 dates.","My ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026 stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.","I have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.","I went up town to day \u0026 had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026 will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.","V.M.I. Oct 26 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026 I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.","You may sell my Jacket \u0026 Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026 pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026 keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.","I have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026 reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.","I have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026 I am sure I will need them.","They have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026 if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026 going out \u0026 drilling an hour.","How do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026 tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.","V.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.","Dear Pa \nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026 thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.","Gen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026 Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.","I had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026 I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026 skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.","I know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.","I have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026 at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.","I do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026 ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026 milk all the winter.","We get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026 drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.","(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026 will have a treat in reading them.","Dr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026 sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026 will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.","Gen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026 no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026 so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.","I am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026 wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.","There is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026 resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"","I do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026 am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.","I recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026 what he is doing. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ Henry Reid.","P.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026 see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard? \nHenry","Camp Carter's Station \nMarch 7th 1864","Dear Pa \nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.","We have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.","Besides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.","I must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","P.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026 send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.","Direct Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames H. Reid papers, 1862-1867. MS 0222. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["James H. Reid papers, 1862-1867. MS 0222. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. 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Letter regards life at camp.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. 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Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e"],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_b7b56d7445b436a790a7777302cc9008\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e"],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. 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I see from the papers that there has been a considerable cavalry fight on the Rappahannock. I don't know what Regiments were engaged in it, but I suppose the 2nd Virginia Cavalry was one of them; as there was a good many killed, I would like to hear the particulars. The Legislature is still cutting up about our maltreating the new Cadets or as we call them Rats. I enclose you a part of the proceedings of the Legislature, thinking probably you have not seen it. You will see from it what a reputation we have. The Legislature says that we are a set (the most of us) of precocious youths who come here to avoid conniptions. Write soon. Give my love to Father \u0026 the Baby. \nYour Brother \nThos. B. Davis","P.S. I only write to get an answer from you, every thing is so dull that a person never has anything to write about. So you must excuse this short and badly written letter.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. 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Whe[sic] had quite an exciting time here the other night occasioned by the Tailor's shop burning up; it was supposed to be the work of an incendiary. I saw Jack Miller \u0026amp; Cally McCorcle with their wifes[sic] at church last Sunday. Miller and McCorcle are engaged in the commission business at this place. I see from the papers that there has been a considerable cavalry fight on the Rappahannock. I don't know what Regiments were engaged in it, but I suppose the 2nd Virginia Cavalry was one of them; as there was a good many killed, I would like to hear the particulars. The Legislature is still cutting up about our maltreating the new Cadets or as we call them Rats. I enclose you a part of the proceedings of the Legislature, thinking probably you have not seen it. You will see from it what a reputation we have. The Legislature says that we are a set (the most of us) of precocious youths who come here to avoid conniptions. Write soon. 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I saw Jack Miller \u0026 Cally McCorcle with their wifes[sic] at church last Sunday. Miller and McCorcle are engaged in the commission business at this place. I see from the papers that there has been a considerable cavalry fight on the Rappahannock. I don't know what Regiments were engaged in it, but I suppose the 2nd Virginia Cavalry was one of them; as there was a good many killed, I would like to hear the particulars. The Legislature is still cutting up about our maltreating the new Cadets or as we call them Rats. I enclose you a part of the proceedings of the Legislature, thinking probably you have not seen it. You will see from it what a reputation we have. The Legislature says that we are a set (the most of us) of precocious youths who come here to avoid conniptions. Write soon. Give my love to Father \u0026 the Baby. \nYour Brother \nThos. B. Davis","P.S. I only write to get an answer from you, every thing is so dull that a person never has anything to write about. So you must excuse this short and badly written letter."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter mentions activities at VMI, Civil War news, the unusual late snows, and provides an early use of the term \"rat\" as a reference to new cadets.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter mentions activities at VMI, Civil War news, the unusual late snows, and provides an early use of the term \"rat\" as a reference to new cadets."],"_nest_path_":"/components#0","timestamp":"2026-05-24T23:27:37.950Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_110","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_110","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_110","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_110","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_110.xml","aspace_url_ssi":"http://ead.lib.virginia.edu/vivaxtf/view?docId=vmi/vilxv00055.xml","title_ssm":["Thomas B. Davis papers"],"title_tesim":["Thomas B. Davis papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1862-1864"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1862-1864"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0026","/repositories/3/resources/110"],"text":["MS.0026","/repositories/3/resources/110","Thomas B. Davis papers","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Cavalry Regiment, 2nd","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Account Books","Correspondence","There are no restrictions","Thomas Bowker Davis was born in Lynchburg, Virginia in 1843 (some records show 1842). He entered VMI in January 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He enlisted as a Private in Company D, 2nd Virginia Cavalry Regiment. He was  wounded in action and captured on October 8, 1864 near Fisher's Hill, Virginia, and he died in prison on October 20, 1864.","Virginia Mil Institute March 22nd, 63","My Dear Sister \nAs it has been some time since I have had the pleasure of hearing from you, I will now drop you a few lines with the expectation of receiving a speedy reply. It has been snowing for the last two or three days, and there is now on the ground one of the deepest snows, that I ever saw at this season of the year. It seems, that as soon as one snow fairly melts, another comes and takes it[sic] place. Whe[sic] had quite an exciting time here the other night occasioned by the Tailor's shop burning up; it was supposed to be the work of an incendiary. I saw Jack Miller \u0026 Cally McCorcle with their wifes[sic] at church last Sunday. Miller and McCorcle are engaged in the commission business at this place. I see from the papers that there has been a considerable cavalry fight on the Rappahannock. I don't know what Regiments were engaged in it, but I suppose the 2nd Virginia Cavalry was one of them; as there was a good many killed, I would like to hear the particulars. The Legislature is still cutting up about our maltreating the new Cadets or as we call them Rats. I enclose you a part of the proceedings of the Legislature, thinking probably you have not seen it. You will see from it what a reputation we have. The Legislature says that we are a set (the most of us) of precocious youths who come here to avoid conniptions. Write soon. Give my love to Father \u0026 the Baby. \nYour Brother \nThos. B. Davis","P.S. I only write to get an answer from you, every thing is so dull that a person never has anything to write about. So you must excuse this short and badly written letter.","The Thomas B. Davis papers contain two items. The first is a letter (dated March 22, 1863) from Davis to his sister, Camillus Christian. This letter was written while Davis was a cadet at VMI. In this letter he mentions activities at VMI, Civil War news (\"a considerable cavalry fight on the Rappahannock\"), the unusual late snows, and provides an early use of the term \"rat\" as a reference to new cadets (\"The legislature is still cutting up about our maltreating the new cadets, or as we call them, Rats....says that we are a set of precocious youths who came here to avoid conscription\"). The second item is a VMI cadet account book containing school expenses.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter mentions activities at VMI, Civil War news, the unusual late snows, and provides an early use of the term \"rat\" as a reference to new cadets.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Davis, Thomas B. (Thomas Bowker), 1842-1864","English"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0026","/repositories/3/resources/110"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Thomas B. Davis papers"],"collection_title_tesim":["Thomas B. Davis papers"],"collection_ssim":["Thomas B. Davis papers"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Davis, Thomas B. (Thomas Bowker), 1842-1864"],"creator_ssim":["Davis, Thomas B. (Thomas Bowker), 1842-1864"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Davis, Thomas B. (Thomas Bowker), 1842-1864"],"creators_ssim":["Davis, Thomas B. (Thomas Bowker), 1842-1864"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Cavalry Regiment, 2nd","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Account Books","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Cavalry Regiment, 2nd","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Account Books","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["2 items"],"extent_tesim":["2 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Account Books","Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1862,1863,1864],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions\u003c/p\u003e"],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions"],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThomas Bowker Davis was born in Lynchburg, Virginia in 1843 (some records show 1842). He entered VMI in January 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He enlisted as a Private in Company D, 2nd Virginia Cavalry Regiment. He was  wounded in action and captured on October 8, 1864 near Fisher's Hill, Virginia, and he died in prison on October 20, 1864.\u003c/p\u003e"],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Thomas Bowker Davis was born in Lynchburg, Virginia in 1843 (some records show 1842). He entered VMI in January 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He enlisted as a Private in Company D, 2nd Virginia Cavalry Regiment. He was  wounded in action and captured on October 8, 1864 near Fisher's Hill, Virginia, and he died in prison on October 20, 1864."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eVirginia Mil Institute March 22nd, 63\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister\u003cbr\u003e\nAs it has been some time since I have had the pleasure of hearing from you, I will now drop you a few lines with the expectation of receiving a speedy reply. It has been snowing for the last two or three days, and there is now on the ground one of the deepest snows, that I ever saw at this season of the year. It seems, that as soon as one snow fairly melts, another comes and takes it[sic] place. Whe[sic] had quite an exciting time here the other night occasioned by the Tailor's shop burning up; it was supposed to be the work of an incendiary. I saw Jack Miller \u0026amp; Cally McCorcle with their wifes[sic] at church last Sunday. Miller and McCorcle are engaged in the commission business at this place. I see from the papers that there has been a considerable cavalry fight on the Rappahannock. I don't know what Regiments were engaged in it, but I suppose the 2nd Virginia Cavalry was one of them; as there was a good many killed, I would like to hear the particulars. The Legislature is still cutting up about our maltreating the new Cadets or as we call them Rats. I enclose you a part of the proceedings of the Legislature, thinking probably you have not seen it. You will see from it what a reputation we have. The Legislature says that we are a set (the most of us) of precocious youths who come here to avoid conniptions. Write soon. Give my love to Father \u0026amp; the Baby.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour Brother\u003cbr\u003e\nThos. B. Davis\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. I only write to get an answer from you, every thing is so dull that a person never has anything to write about. So you must excuse this short and badly written letter.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["Virginia Mil Institute March 22nd, 63","My Dear Sister \nAs it has been some time since I have had the pleasure of hearing from you, I will now drop you a few lines with the expectation of receiving a speedy reply. It has been snowing for the last two or three days, and there is now on the ground one of the deepest snows, that I ever saw at this season of the year. It seems, that as soon as one snow fairly melts, another comes and takes it[sic] place. Whe[sic] had quite an exciting time here the other night occasioned by the Tailor's shop burning up; it was supposed to be the work of an incendiary. I saw Jack Miller \u0026 Cally McCorcle with their wifes[sic] at church last Sunday. Miller and McCorcle are engaged in the commission business at this place. I see from the papers that there has been a considerable cavalry fight on the Rappahannock. I don't know what Regiments were engaged in it, but I suppose the 2nd Virginia Cavalry was one of them; as there was a good many killed, I would like to hear the particulars. The Legislature is still cutting up about our maltreating the new Cadets or as we call them Rats. I enclose you a part of the proceedings of the Legislature, thinking probably you have not seen it. You will see from it what a reputation we have. The Legislature says that we are a set (the most of us) of precocious youths who come here to avoid conniptions. Write soon. Give my love to Father \u0026 the Baby. \nYour Brother \nThos. B. Davis","P.S. I only write to get an answer from you, every thing is so dull that a person never has anything to write about. So you must excuse this short and badly written letter."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThomas B. Davis papers, 1862-1864. MS 0026. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["Thomas B. Davis papers, 1862-1864. MS 0026. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe Thomas B. Davis papers contain two items. The first is a letter (dated March 22, 1863) from Davis to his sister, Camillus Christian. This letter was written while Davis was a cadet at VMI. In this letter he mentions activities at VMI, Civil War news (\"a considerable cavalry fight on the Rappahannock\"), the unusual late snows, and provides an early use of the term \"rat\" as a reference to new cadets (\"The legislature is still cutting up about our maltreating the new cadets, or as we call them, Rats....says that we are a set of precocious youths who came here to avoid conscription\"). The second item is a VMI cadet account book containing school expenses.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter mentions activities at VMI, Civil War news, the unusual late snows, and provides an early use of the term \"rat\" as a reference to new cadets.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The Thomas B. Davis papers contain two items. The first is a letter (dated March 22, 1863) from Davis to his sister, Camillus Christian. This letter was written while Davis was a cadet at VMI. In this letter he mentions activities at VMI, Civil War news (\"a considerable cavalry fight on the Rappahannock\"), the unusual late snows, and provides an early use of the term \"rat\" as a reference to new cadets (\"The legislature is still cutting up about our maltreating the new cadets, or as we call them, Rats....says that we are a set of precocious youths who came here to avoid conscription\"). The second item is a VMI cadet account book containing school expenses.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter mentions activities at VMI, Civil War news, the unusual late snows, and provides an early use of the term \"rat\" as a reference to new cadets."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e"],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_e6942deb8b4240743e79380cf110b4b3\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e"],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Davis, Thomas B. (Thomas Bowker), 1842-1864"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Davis, Thomas B. (Thomas Bowker), 1842-1864"],"language_ssim":["English"],"total_component_count_is":1,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-05-24T23:27:37.950Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_110_c01"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c02","type":"Item","attributes":{"title":"Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr.","abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c02#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c02#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"ref_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c02","ref_ssm":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c02"],"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c02","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01","parent_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01","parent_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01"],"parent_ids_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01"],"parent_unittitles_ssm":["James H. Reid papers","Correspondence","Written from VMI"],"parent_unittitles_tesim":["James H. Reid papers","Correspondence","Written from VMI"],"text":["James H. Reid papers","Correspondence","Written from VMI","Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr.","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence","English .","VMI Aug 14, 1862","Dear Pa \nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026 was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.","I have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026 I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.","Our studies are math \u0026 French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026 some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026 none have made 15 since I have been here.","I got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026 none since. I got off from all of them \u0026 all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026 supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026 taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.","I like the V.M.I very much \u0026 do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026 I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.","I have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026 T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026 accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.","Our clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026 Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026 an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026 caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026 hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026 they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026 long. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026 Mrs. Brown \u0026 every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026 sends his love. Henry.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\""],"title_filing_ssi":"Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr.","title_ssm":["Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr."],"title_tesim":["Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr."],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1862 August 14"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1862"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr."],"component_level_isim":[3],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"collection_ssim":["James H. Reid papers"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"child_component_count_isi":0,"level_ssm":["Item"],"level_ssim":["Item"],"sort_isi":4,"parent_access_restrict_tesm":["There are no restrictions."],"parent_access_terms_tesm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"date_range_isim":[1862],"names_ssim":["Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917"],"persname_ssim":["Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917"],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence"],"language_ssim":["English ."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eVMI Aug 14, 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr/\u003e\nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026amp; was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026amp;, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026amp; I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOur studies are math \u0026amp; French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026amp; some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026amp; 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026amp; none have made 15 since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026amp; none since. I got off from all of them \u0026amp; all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026amp; supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026amp; taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI like the V.M.I very much \u0026amp; do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026amp; I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026amp; T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026amp; accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOur clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026amp; Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026amp; an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026amp; caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026amp; hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026amp; they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026amp;c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026amp; long.\u003cbr/\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr/\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026amp; Mrs. Brown \u0026amp; every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026amp; sends his love. Henry.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["VMI Aug 14, 1862","Dear Pa \nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026 was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.","I have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026 I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.","Our studies are math \u0026 French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026 some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026 none have made 15 since I have been here.","I got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026 none since. I got off from all of them \u0026 all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026 supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026 taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.","I like the V.M.I very much \u0026 do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026 I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.","I have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026 T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026 accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.","Our clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026 Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026 an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026 caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026 hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026 they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026 long. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026 Mrs. Brown \u0026 every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026 sends his love. Henry."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\""],"_nest_path_":"/components#0/components#0/components#1","timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:09:24.880Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_613.xml","aspace_url_ssi":"http://ead.lib.virginia.edu/vivaxtf/view?docId=vmi/vilxv00028.xml","title_ssm":["James H. Reid papers"],"title_tesim":["James H. Reid papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1862-1867"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1862-1867"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613"],"text":["MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613","James H. Reid papers","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","A portion of the James H. Reid papers are avaliable \n online .","James Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.","During the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia.","V.M.I. \nAug 10, 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026 staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026 went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026 Read went to town.","After supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026 was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026 wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026 drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026 got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026 made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026 sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026 Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026 saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.","I went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026 am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026 I can hardly write. \nWith love to all I remain.","Your affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026 and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026 every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.","VMI Aug 14, 1862","Dear Pa \nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026 was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.","I have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026 I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.","Our studies are math \u0026 French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026 some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026 none have made 15 since I have been here.","I got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026 none since. I got off from all of them \u0026 all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026 supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026 taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.","I like the V.M.I very much \u0026 do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026 I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.","I have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026 T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026 accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.","Our clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026 Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026 an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026 caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026 hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026 they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026 long. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026 Mrs. Brown \u0026 every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026 sends his love. Henry.","V.M.I. Aug 18 1862","Dear Pa \nThe desk \u0026 was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026 got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026 Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026 sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026 sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.","One of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026 had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026 arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026 stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026 overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026 Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.","Don't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.","My left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026 returned are very hard on Rats \u0026 I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"","I will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Remember me to all my friends \u0026 write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026. My pillow is a great deal of use.","V.M.I. Aug 26 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.","In regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026 finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026 all of them have gone home some days ago.","I have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026 Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.","We Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.","In place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026 drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026 tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.","I have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026 keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026 if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026 I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all, \nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","It takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026 Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.","V.M.I. Aug 28 1862","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026 did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026 apples all recd safe \u0026 sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026.","I have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.","My finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026 overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026 small Va staff buttons.","V.M.I. Sep 14 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026.","Gen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026 write you immediately.","Since the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026 Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026 Tattoo at 9½.","The last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026 I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.","Over 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026 of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026 did not even run for the 3rd class.","I have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026 is responsible for noises \u0026). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026 I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.","I am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026 would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.","If our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026 let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.","Ten cadets deserted the other day \u0026 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026 all my friends.","I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Sep 20, 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.","When I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026 by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026 a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026 fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026 my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.","I have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026 the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026 double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026 came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026 he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.","I have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.","I asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026 overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026 the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,","I remain, \nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.","P.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026.","V.M.I. Sept 27 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"","It seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026 buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.","I can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday.","I have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026 got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026 I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026 expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.","I must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V .M.I. Sept 30 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.","Speaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.","I have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026 have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.","I have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"","I have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026 is responsible for all trifling \u0026 talking in ranks \u0026c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.","What is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026 returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026 all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Please don't forget the cap cover \u0026 skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026 was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026 myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026 you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.","V.M.I. Oct 5 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026 apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026 pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026 if he gives me jacket \u0026 pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026 I can easily sell it.","Pa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026 that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026 there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026 got some boys to help me \u0026 got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.","Maj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026 Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026 somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026 if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.","I must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026 letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026 I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026 jelly \u0026. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026 keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026 have very good eating.","If I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026 will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.","You need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026 before I could get to my room \u0026 get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026 I don't think I will get any more demerit.","Wm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.","As well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026 Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026 were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026 dates.","My ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026 stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.","I have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.","I went up town to day \u0026 had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026 will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.","V.M.I. Oct 26 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026 I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.","You may sell my Jacket \u0026 Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026 pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026 keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.","I have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026 reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.","I have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026 I am sure I will need them.","They have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026 if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026 going out \u0026 drilling an hour.","How do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026 tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.","V.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.","Dear Pa \nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026 thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.","Gen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026 Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.","I had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026 I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026 skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.","I know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.","I have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026 at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.","I do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026 ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026 milk all the winter.","We get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026 drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.","(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026 will have a treat in reading them.","Dr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026 sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026 will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.","Gen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026 no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026 so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.","I am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026 wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.","There is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026 resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"","I do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026 am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.","I recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026 what he is doing. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ Henry Reid.","P.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026 see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard? \nHenry","Camp Carter's Station \nMarch 7th 1864","Dear Pa \nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.","We have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.","Besides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.","I must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","P.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026 send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.","Direct Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps.","The James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.","The papers also contain one letter (dated March 7 1864) written while Reid was serving with the 13th Virginia Light Artillery Regiment, Confederate States of America, and four letters that date between 1865 and 1867.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from Camp at Carter's Station. Letter regards life at camp.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","English \n.    "],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613"],"normalized_title_ssm":["James H. Reid papers"],"collection_title_tesim":["James H. Reid papers"],"collection_ssim":["James H. Reid papers"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"creator_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"creators_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["18 items"],"extent_tesim":["18 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1862,1863,1864,1865,1866,1867],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e"],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"altformavail_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eA portion of the James H. Reid papers are avaliable \n\u003ca href=\"http://digitalcollections.vmi.edu/cdm/ref/collection/p15821coll11/id/2010\"\u003eonline\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e"],"altformavail_heading_ssm":["Online Access"],"altformavail_tesim":["A portion of the James H. Reid papers are avaliable \n online ."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDuring the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["James Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.","During the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV.M.I.\u003cbr\u003e\nAug 10, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026amp; staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026amp; went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026amp; Read went to town.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAfter supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026amp; was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026amp; wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026amp; drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026amp; got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026amp; made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026amp; sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026amp; Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026amp; saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026amp; am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026amp; I can hardly write.\u003cbr\u003e\nWith love to all I remain.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026amp; and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026amp; every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVMI Aug 14, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026amp; was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026amp;, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026amp; I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOur studies are math \u0026amp; French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026amp; some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026amp; 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026amp; none have made 15 since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026amp; none since. I got off from all of them \u0026amp; all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026amp; supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026amp; taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI like the V.M.I very much \u0026amp; do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026amp; I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026amp; T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026amp; accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOur clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026amp; Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026amp; an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026amp; caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026amp; hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026amp; they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026amp;c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026amp; long.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026amp; Mrs. Brown \u0026amp; every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026amp; sends his love. Henry.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 18 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nThe desk \u0026amp; was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026amp; got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026amp; Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026amp;. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026amp; sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026amp; sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOne of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026amp; had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026amp; arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026amp; stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026amp; overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026amp; Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDon't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026amp;. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026amp; returned are very hard on Rats \u0026amp; I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eRemember me to all my friends \u0026amp; write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026amp;. My pillow is a great deal of use.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 26 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIn regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026amp; finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026amp; all of them have gone home some days ago.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026amp; Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWe Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026amp; 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026amp; 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIn place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026amp; drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026amp; tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026amp; keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026amp; if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026amp; I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIt takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026amp; Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026amp; 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 28 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa \u0026amp; Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026amp; did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026amp; apples all recd safe \u0026amp; sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026amp;\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026amp; 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026amp; 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026amp; overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026amp; small Va staff buttons.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sep 14 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026amp; write you immediately.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSince the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026amp; Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026amp; Tattoo at 9½.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026amp; 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026amp; I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOver 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026amp; of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026amp; did not even run for the 3rd class.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026amp; is responsible for noises \u0026amp;). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026amp; I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026amp; would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIf our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026amp; let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eTen cadets deserted the other day \u0026amp; 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026amp; all my friends.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI remain\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sep 20, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWhen I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026amp; by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026amp; a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026amp; fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026amp; my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026amp; 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026amp; the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026amp; double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026amp; came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026amp; he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026amp; get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026amp; overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026amp; the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sept 27 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIt seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026amp; buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026amp; get it on Saturday.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026amp; got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026amp;. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026amp; I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026amp; expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV .M.I. Sept 30 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSpeaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026amp; have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026amp; is responsible for all trifling \u0026amp; talking in ranks \u0026amp;c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWhat is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026amp; returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026amp; all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003ePlease don't forget the cap cover \u0026amp; skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026amp; was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026amp; myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026amp;c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026amp; you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 5 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026amp; apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026amp; pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026amp; if he gives me jacket \u0026amp; pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026amp; I can easily sell it.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003ePa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026amp; that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026amp; there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026amp; got some boys to help me \u0026amp; got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMaj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026amp; 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026amp; Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026amp; somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026amp; if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa \u0026amp; Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026amp; letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026amp; I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026amp; jelly \u0026amp;. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026amp; keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026amp; have very good eating.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIf I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026amp; will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYou need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026amp; before I could get to my room \u0026amp; get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026amp; 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026amp; I don't think I will get any more demerit.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAs well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026amp; Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026amp; were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026amp; dates.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026amp; stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI went up town to day \u0026amp; had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026amp; will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 26 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026amp; I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYou may sell my Jacket \u0026amp; Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026amp; pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026amp; keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026amp; 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026amp; reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026amp; I am sure I will need them.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThey have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026amp; if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026amp; going out \u0026amp; drilling an hour.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eHow do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026amp; tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026amp; thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026amp; Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026amp; I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026amp;. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026amp; skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026amp; at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026amp; ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026amp; milk all the winter.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWe get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026amp; drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003e(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026amp; will have a treat in reading them.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026amp; sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026amp; will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026amp; no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026amp; so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026amp; wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThere is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026amp; resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026amp; am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026amp; what he is doing. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026amp; see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard?\u003cbr\u003e\nHenry\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp Carter's Station\u003cbr\u003e\nMarch 7th 1864\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWe have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eBesides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026amp;. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026amp; send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDirect Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V.M.I. \nAug 10, 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026 staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026 went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026 Read went to town.","After supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026 was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026 wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026 drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026 got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026 made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026 sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026 Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026 saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.","I went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026 am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026 I can hardly write. \nWith love to all I remain.","Your affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026 and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026 every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.","VMI Aug 14, 1862","Dear Pa \nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026 was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.","I have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026 I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.","Our studies are math \u0026 French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026 some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026 none have made 15 since I have been here.","I got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026 none since. I got off from all of them \u0026 all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026 supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026 taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.","I like the V.M.I very much \u0026 do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026 I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.","I have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026 T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026 accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.","Our clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026 Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026 an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026 caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026 hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026 they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026 long. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026 Mrs. Brown \u0026 every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026 sends his love. Henry.","V.M.I. Aug 18 1862","Dear Pa \nThe desk \u0026 was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026 got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026 Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026 sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026 sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.","One of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026 had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026 arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026 stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026 overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026 Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.","Don't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.","My left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026 returned are very hard on Rats \u0026 I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"","I will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Remember me to all my friends \u0026 write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026. My pillow is a great deal of use.","V.M.I. Aug 26 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.","In regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026 finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026 all of them have gone home some days ago.","I have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026 Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.","We Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.","In place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026 drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026 tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.","I have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026 keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026 if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026 I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all, \nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","It takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026 Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.","V.M.I. Aug 28 1862","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026 did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026 apples all recd safe \u0026 sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026.","I have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.","My finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026 overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026 small Va staff buttons.","V.M.I. Sep 14 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026.","Gen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026 write you immediately.","Since the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026 Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026 Tattoo at 9½.","The last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026 I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.","Over 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026 of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026 did not even run for the 3rd class.","I have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026 is responsible for noises \u0026). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026 I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.","I am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026 would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.","If our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026 let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.","Ten cadets deserted the other day \u0026 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026 all my friends.","I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Sep 20, 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.","When I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026 by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026 a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026 fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026 my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.","I have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026 the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026 double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026 came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026 he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.","I have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.","I asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026 overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026 the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,","I remain, \nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.","P.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026.","V.M.I. Sept 27 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"","It seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026 buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.","I can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday.","I have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026 got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026 I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026 expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.","I must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V .M.I. Sept 30 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.","Speaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.","I have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026 have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.","I have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"","I have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026 is responsible for all trifling \u0026 talking in ranks \u0026c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.","What is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026 returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026 all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Please don't forget the cap cover \u0026 skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026 was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026 myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026 you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.","V.M.I. Oct 5 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026 apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026 pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026 if he gives me jacket \u0026 pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026 I can easily sell it.","Pa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026 that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026 there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026 got some boys to help me \u0026 got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.","Maj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026 Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026 somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026 if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.","I must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026 letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026 I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026 jelly \u0026. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026 keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026 have very good eating.","If I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026 will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.","You need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026 before I could get to my room \u0026 get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026 I don't think I will get any more demerit.","Wm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.","As well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026 Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026 were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026 dates.","My ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026 stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.","I have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.","I went up town to day \u0026 had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026 will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.","V.M.I. Oct 26 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026 I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.","You may sell my Jacket \u0026 Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026 pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026 keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.","I have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026 reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.","I have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026 I am sure I will need them.","They have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026 if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026 going out \u0026 drilling an hour.","How do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026 tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.","V.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.","Dear Pa \nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026 thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.","Gen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026 Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.","I had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026 I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026 skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.","I know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.","I have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026 at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.","I do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026 ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026 milk all the winter.","We get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026 drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.","(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026 will have a treat in reading them.","Dr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026 sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026 will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.","Gen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026 no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026 so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.","I am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026 wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.","There is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026 resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"","I do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026 am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.","I recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026 what he is doing. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ Henry Reid.","P.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026 see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard? \nHenry","Camp Carter's Station \nMarch 7th 1864","Dear Pa \nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.","We have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.","Besides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.","I must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","P.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026 send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.","Direct Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames H. Reid papers, 1862-1867. MS 0222. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["James H. Reid papers, 1862-1867. MS 0222. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe papers also contain one letter (dated March 7 1864) written while Reid was serving with the 13th Virginia Light Artillery Regiment, Confederate States of America, and four letters that date between 1865 and 1867.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Camp at Carter's Station. Letter regards life at camp.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.","The papers also contain one letter (dated March 7 1864) written while Reid was serving with the 13th Virginia Light Artillery Regiment, Confederate States of America, and four letters that date between 1865 and 1867.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from Camp at Carter's Station. Letter regards life at camp."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e"],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_b7b56d7445b436a790a7777302cc9008\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e"],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"names_coll_ssim":["Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878"],"persname_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"language_ssim":["English \n.    "],"total_component_count_is":19,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:09:24.880Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c02"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c03","type":"Item","attributes":{"title":"Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr.","abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c03#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c03#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"ref_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c03","ref_ssm":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c03"],"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c03","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01","parent_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01","parent_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01"],"parent_ids_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01"],"parent_unittitles_ssm":["James H. Reid papers","Correspondence","Written from VMI"],"parent_unittitles_tesim":["James H. Reid papers","Correspondence","Written from VMI"],"text":["James H. Reid papers","Correspondence","Written from VMI","Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr.","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence","English .","V.M.I. Aug 18 1862","Dear Pa \nThe desk \u0026 was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026 got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026 Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026 sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026 sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.","One of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026 had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026 arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026 stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026 overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026 Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.","Don't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.","My left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026 returned are very hard on Rats \u0026 I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"","I will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Remember me to all my friends \u0026 write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026. My pillow is a great deal of use.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life."],"title_filing_ssi":"Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr.","title_ssm":["Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr."],"title_tesim":["Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr."],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1862 August 18"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1862"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr."],"component_level_isim":[3],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"collection_ssim":["James H. Reid papers"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"child_component_count_isi":0,"level_ssm":["Item"],"level_ssim":["Item"],"sort_isi":5,"parent_access_restrict_tesm":["There are no restrictions."],"parent_access_terms_tesm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"date_range_isim":[1862],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence"],"language_ssim":["English ."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 18 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr/\u003e\nThe desk \u0026amp; was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026amp; got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026amp; Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026amp;. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026amp; sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026amp; sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOne of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026amp; had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026amp; arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026amp; stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026amp; overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026amp; Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDon't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026amp;. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026amp; returned are very hard on Rats \u0026amp; I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often,\u003cbr/\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr/\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eRemember me to all my friends \u0026amp; write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026amp;. My pillow is a great deal of use.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V.M.I. Aug 18 1862","Dear Pa \nThe desk \u0026 was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026 got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026 Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026 sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026 sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.","One of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026 had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026 arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026 stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026 overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026 Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.","Don't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.","My left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026 returned are very hard on Rats \u0026 I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"","I will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Remember me to all my friends \u0026 write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026. My pillow is a great deal of use."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life."],"_nest_path_":"/components#0/components#0/components#2","timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:09:24.880Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_613.xml","aspace_url_ssi":"http://ead.lib.virginia.edu/vivaxtf/view?docId=vmi/vilxv00028.xml","title_ssm":["James H. Reid papers"],"title_tesim":["James H. Reid papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1862-1867"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1862-1867"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613"],"text":["MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613","James H. Reid papers","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","A portion of the James H. Reid papers are avaliable \n online .","James Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.","During the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia.","V.M.I. \nAug 10, 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026 staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026 went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026 Read went to town.","After supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026 was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026 wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026 drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026 got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026 made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026 sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026 Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026 saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.","I went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026 am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026 I can hardly write. \nWith love to all I remain.","Your affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026 and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026 every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.","VMI Aug 14, 1862","Dear Pa \nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026 was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.","I have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026 I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.","Our studies are math \u0026 French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026 some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026 none have made 15 since I have been here.","I got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026 none since. I got off from all of them \u0026 all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026 supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026 taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.","I like the V.M.I very much \u0026 do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026 I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.","I have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026 T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026 accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.","Our clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026 Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026 an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026 caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026 hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026 they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026 long. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026 Mrs. Brown \u0026 every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026 sends his love. Henry.","V.M.I. Aug 18 1862","Dear Pa \nThe desk \u0026 was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026 got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026 Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026 sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026 sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.","One of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026 had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026 arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026 stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026 overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026 Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.","Don't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.","My left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026 returned are very hard on Rats \u0026 I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"","I will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Remember me to all my friends \u0026 write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026. My pillow is a great deal of use.","V.M.I. Aug 26 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.","In regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026 finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026 all of them have gone home some days ago.","I have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026 Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.","We Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.","In place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026 drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026 tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.","I have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026 keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026 if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026 I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all, \nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","It takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026 Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.","V.M.I. Aug 28 1862","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026 did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026 apples all recd safe \u0026 sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026.","I have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.","My finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026 overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026 small Va staff buttons.","V.M.I. Sep 14 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026.","Gen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026 write you immediately.","Since the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026 Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026 Tattoo at 9½.","The last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026 I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.","Over 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026 of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026 did not even run for the 3rd class.","I have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026 is responsible for noises \u0026). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026 I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.","I am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026 would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.","If our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026 let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.","Ten cadets deserted the other day \u0026 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026 all my friends.","I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Sep 20, 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.","When I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026 by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026 a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026 fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026 my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.","I have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026 the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026 double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026 came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026 he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.","I have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.","I asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026 overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026 the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,","I remain, \nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.","P.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026.","V.M.I. Sept 27 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"","It seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026 buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.","I can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday.","I have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026 got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026 I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026 expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.","I must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V .M.I. Sept 30 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.","Speaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.","I have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026 have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.","I have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"","I have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026 is responsible for all trifling \u0026 talking in ranks \u0026c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.","What is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026 returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026 all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Please don't forget the cap cover \u0026 skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026 was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026 myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026 you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.","V.M.I. Oct 5 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026 apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026 pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026 if he gives me jacket \u0026 pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026 I can easily sell it.","Pa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026 that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026 there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026 got some boys to help me \u0026 got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.","Maj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026 Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026 somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026 if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.","I must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026 letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026 I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026 jelly \u0026. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026 keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026 have very good eating.","If I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026 will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.","You need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026 before I could get to my room \u0026 get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026 I don't think I will get any more demerit.","Wm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.","As well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026 Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026 were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026 dates.","My ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026 stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.","I have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.","I went up town to day \u0026 had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026 will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.","V.M.I. Oct 26 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026 I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.","You may sell my Jacket \u0026 Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026 pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026 keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.","I have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026 reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.","I have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026 I am sure I will need them.","They have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026 if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026 going out \u0026 drilling an hour.","How do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026 tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.","V.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.","Dear Pa \nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026 thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.","Gen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026 Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.","I had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026 I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026 skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.","I know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.","I have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026 at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.","I do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026 ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026 milk all the winter.","We get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026 drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.","(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026 will have a treat in reading them.","Dr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026 sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026 will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.","Gen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026 no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026 so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.","I am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026 wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.","There is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026 resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"","I do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026 am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.","I recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026 what he is doing. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ Henry Reid.","P.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026 see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard? \nHenry","Camp Carter's Station \nMarch 7th 1864","Dear Pa \nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.","We have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.","Besides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.","I must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","P.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026 send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.","Direct Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps.","The James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.","The papers also contain one letter (dated March 7 1864) written while Reid was serving with the 13th Virginia Light Artillery Regiment, Confederate States of America, and four letters that date between 1865 and 1867.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from Camp at Carter's Station. Letter regards life at camp.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","English \n.    "],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613"],"normalized_title_ssm":["James H. Reid papers"],"collection_title_tesim":["James H. Reid papers"],"collection_ssim":["James H. Reid papers"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"creator_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"creators_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["18 items"],"extent_tesim":["18 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1862,1863,1864,1865,1866,1867],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e"],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"altformavail_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eA portion of the James H. Reid papers are avaliable \n\u003ca href=\"http://digitalcollections.vmi.edu/cdm/ref/collection/p15821coll11/id/2010\"\u003eonline\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e"],"altformavail_heading_ssm":["Online Access"],"altformavail_tesim":["A portion of the James H. Reid papers are avaliable \n online ."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDuring the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["James Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.","During the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV.M.I.\u003cbr\u003e\nAug 10, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026amp; staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026amp; went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026amp; Read went to town.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAfter supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026amp; was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026amp; wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026amp; drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026amp; got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026amp; made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026amp; sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026amp; Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026amp; saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026amp; am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026amp; I can hardly write.\u003cbr\u003e\nWith love to all I remain.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026amp; and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026amp; every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVMI Aug 14, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026amp; was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026amp;, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026amp; I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOur studies are math \u0026amp; French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026amp; some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026amp; 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026amp; none have made 15 since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026amp; none since. I got off from all of them \u0026amp; all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026amp; supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026amp; taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI like the V.M.I very much \u0026amp; do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026amp; I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026amp; T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026amp; accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOur clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026amp; Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026amp; an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026amp; caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026amp; hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026amp; they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026amp;c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026amp; long.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026amp; Mrs. Brown \u0026amp; every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026amp; sends his love. Henry.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 18 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nThe desk \u0026amp; was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026amp; got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026amp; Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026amp;. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026amp; sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026amp; sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOne of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026amp; had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026amp; arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026amp; stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026amp; overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026amp; Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDon't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026amp;. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026amp; returned are very hard on Rats \u0026amp; I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eRemember me to all my friends \u0026amp; write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026amp;. My pillow is a great deal of use.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 26 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIn regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026amp; finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026amp; all of them have gone home some days ago.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026amp; Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWe Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026amp; 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026amp; 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIn place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026amp; drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026amp; tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026amp; keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026amp; if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026amp; I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIt takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026amp; Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026amp; 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 28 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa \u0026amp; Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026amp; did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026amp; apples all recd safe \u0026amp; sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026amp;\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026amp; 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026amp; 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026amp; overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026amp; small Va staff buttons.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sep 14 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026amp; write you immediately.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSince the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026amp; Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026amp; Tattoo at 9½.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026amp; 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026amp; I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOver 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026amp; of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026amp; did not even run for the 3rd class.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026amp; is responsible for noises \u0026amp;). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026amp; I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026amp; would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIf our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026amp; let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eTen cadets deserted the other day \u0026amp; 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026amp; all my friends.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI remain\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sep 20, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWhen I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026amp; by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026amp; a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026amp; fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026amp; my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026amp; 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026amp; the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026amp; double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026amp; came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026amp; he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026amp; get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026amp; overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026amp; the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sept 27 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIt seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026amp; buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026amp; get it on Saturday.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026amp; got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026amp;. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026amp; I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026amp; expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV .M.I. Sept 30 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSpeaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026amp; have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026amp; is responsible for all trifling \u0026amp; talking in ranks \u0026amp;c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWhat is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026amp; returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026amp; all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003ePlease don't forget the cap cover \u0026amp; skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026amp; was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026amp; myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026amp;c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026amp; you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 5 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026amp; apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026amp; pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026amp; if he gives me jacket \u0026amp; pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026amp; I can easily sell it.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003ePa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026amp; that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026amp; there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026amp; got some boys to help me \u0026amp; got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMaj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026amp; 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026amp; Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026amp; somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026amp; if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa \u0026amp; Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026amp; letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026amp; I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026amp; jelly \u0026amp;. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026amp; keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026amp; have very good eating.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIf I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026amp; will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYou need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026amp; before I could get to my room \u0026amp; get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026amp; 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026amp; I don't think I will get any more demerit.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAs well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026amp; Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026amp; were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026amp; dates.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026amp; stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI went up town to day \u0026amp; had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026amp; will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 26 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026amp; I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYou may sell my Jacket \u0026amp; Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026amp; pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026amp; keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026amp; 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026amp; reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026amp; I am sure I will need them.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThey have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026amp; if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026amp; going out \u0026amp; drilling an hour.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eHow do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026amp; tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026amp; thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026amp; Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026amp; I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026amp;. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026amp; skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026amp; at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026amp; ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026amp; milk all the winter.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWe get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026amp; drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003e(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026amp; will have a treat in reading them.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026amp; sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026amp; will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026amp; no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026amp; so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026amp; wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThere is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026amp; resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026amp; am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026amp; what he is doing. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026amp; see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard?\u003cbr\u003e\nHenry\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp Carter's Station\u003cbr\u003e\nMarch 7th 1864\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWe have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eBesides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026amp;. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026amp; send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDirect Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V.M.I. \nAug 10, 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026 staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026 went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026 Read went to town.","After supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026 was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026 wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026 drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026 got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026 made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026 sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026 Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026 saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.","I went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026 am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026 I can hardly write. \nWith love to all I remain.","Your affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026 and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026 every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.","VMI Aug 14, 1862","Dear Pa \nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026 was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.","I have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026 I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.","Our studies are math \u0026 French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026 some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026 none have made 15 since I have been here.","I got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026 none since. I got off from all of them \u0026 all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026 supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026 taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.","I like the V.M.I very much \u0026 do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026 I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.","I have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026 T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026 accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.","Our clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026 Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026 an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026 caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026 hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026 they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026 long. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026 Mrs. Brown \u0026 every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026 sends his love. Henry.","V.M.I. Aug 18 1862","Dear Pa \nThe desk \u0026 was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026 got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026 Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026 sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026 sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.","One of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026 had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026 arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026 stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026 overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026 Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.","Don't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.","My left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026 returned are very hard on Rats \u0026 I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"","I will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Remember me to all my friends \u0026 write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026. My pillow is a great deal of use.","V.M.I. Aug 26 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.","In regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026 finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026 all of them have gone home some days ago.","I have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026 Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.","We Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.","In place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026 drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026 tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.","I have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026 keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026 if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026 I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all, \nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","It takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026 Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.","V.M.I. Aug 28 1862","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026 did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026 apples all recd safe \u0026 sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026.","I have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.","My finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026 overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026 small Va staff buttons.","V.M.I. Sep 14 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026.","Gen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026 write you immediately.","Since the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026 Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026 Tattoo at 9½.","The last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026 I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.","Over 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026 of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026 did not even run for the 3rd class.","I have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026 is responsible for noises \u0026). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026 I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.","I am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026 would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.","If our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026 let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.","Ten cadets deserted the other day \u0026 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026 all my friends.","I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Sep 20, 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.","When I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026 by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026 a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026 fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026 my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.","I have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026 the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026 double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026 came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026 he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.","I have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.","I asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026 overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026 the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,","I remain, \nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.","P.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026.","V.M.I. Sept 27 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"","It seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026 buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.","I can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday.","I have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026 got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026 I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026 expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.","I must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V .M.I. Sept 30 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.","Speaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.","I have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026 have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.","I have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"","I have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026 is responsible for all trifling \u0026 talking in ranks \u0026c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.","What is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026 returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026 all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Please don't forget the cap cover \u0026 skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026 was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026 myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026 you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.","V.M.I. Oct 5 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026 apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026 pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026 if he gives me jacket \u0026 pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026 I can easily sell it.","Pa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026 that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026 there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026 got some boys to help me \u0026 got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.","Maj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026 Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026 somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026 if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.","I must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026 letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026 I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026 jelly \u0026. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026 keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026 have very good eating.","If I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026 will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.","You need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026 before I could get to my room \u0026 get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026 I don't think I will get any more demerit.","Wm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.","As well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026 Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026 were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026 dates.","My ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026 stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.","I have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.","I went up town to day \u0026 had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026 will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.","V.M.I. Oct 26 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026 I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.","You may sell my Jacket \u0026 Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026 pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026 keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.","I have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026 reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.","I have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026 I am sure I will need them.","They have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026 if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026 going out \u0026 drilling an hour.","How do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026 tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.","V.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.","Dear Pa \nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026 thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.","Gen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026 Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.","I had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026 I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026 skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.","I know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.","I have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026 at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.","I do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026 ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026 milk all the winter.","We get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026 drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.","(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026 will have a treat in reading them.","Dr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026 sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026 will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.","Gen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026 no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026 so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.","I am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026 wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.","There is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026 resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"","I do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026 am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.","I recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026 what he is doing. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ Henry Reid.","P.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026 see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard? \nHenry","Camp Carter's Station \nMarch 7th 1864","Dear Pa \nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.","We have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.","Besides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.","I must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","P.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026 send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.","Direct Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames H. Reid papers, 1862-1867. MS 0222. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["James H. Reid papers, 1862-1867. MS 0222. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe papers also contain one letter (dated March 7 1864) written while Reid was serving with the 13th Virginia Light Artillery Regiment, Confederate States of America, and four letters that date between 1865 and 1867.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Camp at Carter's Station. Letter regards life at camp.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.","The papers also contain one letter (dated March 7 1864) written while Reid was serving with the 13th Virginia Light Artillery Regiment, Confederate States of America, and four letters that date between 1865 and 1867.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from Camp at Carter's Station. Letter regards life at camp."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e"],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_b7b56d7445b436a790a7777302cc9008\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e"],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"names_coll_ssim":["Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878"],"persname_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"language_ssim":["English \n.    "],"total_component_count_is":19,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:09:24.880Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c03"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c04","type":"Item","attributes":{"title":"Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr.","abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c04#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c04#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"ref_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c04","ref_ssm":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c04"],"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c04","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01","parent_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01","parent_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01"],"parent_ids_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01"],"parent_unittitles_ssm":["James H. Reid papers","Correspondence","Written from VMI"],"parent_unittitles_tesim":["James H. Reid papers","Correspondence","Written from VMI"],"text":["James H. Reid papers","Correspondence","Written from VMI","Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr.","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence","English .","V.M.I. Aug 26 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.","In regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026 finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026 all of them have gone home some days ago.","I have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026 Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.","We Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.","In place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026 drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026 tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.","I have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026 keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026 if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026 I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all, \nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","It takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026 Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life."],"title_filing_ssi":"Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr.","title_ssm":["Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr."],"title_tesim":["Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr."],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1862 August 26"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1862"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr."],"component_level_isim":[3],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"collection_ssim":["James H. Reid papers"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"child_component_count_isi":0,"level_ssm":["Item"],"level_ssim":["Item"],"sort_isi":6,"parent_access_restrict_tesm":["There are no restrictions."],"parent_access_terms_tesm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"date_range_isim":[1862],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence"],"language_ssim":["English ."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 26 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr/\u003e\nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIn regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026amp; finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026amp; all of them have gone home some days ago.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026amp; Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026amp; 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026amp; 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIn place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026amp; drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026amp; tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026amp; keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026amp; if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026amp; I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all,\u003cbr/\u003e\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIt takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026amp; Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026amp; 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V.M.I. Aug 26 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.","In regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026 finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026 all of them have gone home some days ago.","I have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026 Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.","We Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.","In place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026 drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026 tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.","I have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026 keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026 if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026 I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all, \nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","It takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026 Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life."],"_nest_path_":"/components#0/components#0/components#3","timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:09:24.880Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_613.xml","aspace_url_ssi":"http://ead.lib.virginia.edu/vivaxtf/view?docId=vmi/vilxv00028.xml","title_ssm":["James H. Reid papers"],"title_tesim":["James H. Reid papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1862-1867"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1862-1867"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613"],"text":["MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613","James H. Reid papers","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","A portion of the James H. Reid papers are avaliable \n online .","James Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.","During the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia.","V.M.I. \nAug 10, 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026 staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026 went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026 Read went to town.","After supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026 was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026 wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026 drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026 got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026 made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026 sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026 Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026 saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.","I went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026 am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026 I can hardly write. \nWith love to all I remain.","Your affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026 and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026 every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.","VMI Aug 14, 1862","Dear Pa \nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026 was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.","I have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026 I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.","Our studies are math \u0026 French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026 some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026 none have made 15 since I have been here.","I got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026 none since. I got off from all of them \u0026 all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026 supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026 taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.","I like the V.M.I very much \u0026 do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026 I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.","I have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026 T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026 accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.","Our clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026 Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026 an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026 caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026 hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026 they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026 long. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026 Mrs. Brown \u0026 every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026 sends his love. Henry.","V.M.I. Aug 18 1862","Dear Pa \nThe desk \u0026 was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026 got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026 Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026 sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026 sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.","One of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026 had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026 arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026 stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026 overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026 Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.","Don't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.","My left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026 returned are very hard on Rats \u0026 I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"","I will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Remember me to all my friends \u0026 write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026. My pillow is a great deal of use.","V.M.I. Aug 26 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.","In regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026 finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026 all of them have gone home some days ago.","I have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026 Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.","We Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.","In place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026 drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026 tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.","I have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026 keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026 if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026 I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all, \nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","It takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026 Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.","V.M.I. Aug 28 1862","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026 did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026 apples all recd safe \u0026 sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026.","I have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.","My finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026 overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026 small Va staff buttons.","V.M.I. Sep 14 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026.","Gen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026 write you immediately.","Since the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026 Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026 Tattoo at 9½.","The last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026 I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.","Over 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026 of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026 did not even run for the 3rd class.","I have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026 is responsible for noises \u0026). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026 I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.","I am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026 would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.","If our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026 let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.","Ten cadets deserted the other day \u0026 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026 all my friends.","I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Sep 20, 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.","When I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026 by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026 a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026 fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026 my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.","I have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026 the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026 double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026 came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026 he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.","I have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.","I asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026 overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026 the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,","I remain, \nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.","P.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026.","V.M.I. Sept 27 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"","It seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026 buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.","I can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday.","I have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026 got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026 I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026 expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.","I must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V .M.I. Sept 30 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.","Speaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.","I have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026 have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.","I have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"","I have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026 is responsible for all trifling \u0026 talking in ranks \u0026c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.","What is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026 returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026 all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Please don't forget the cap cover \u0026 skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026 was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026 myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026 you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.","V.M.I. Oct 5 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026 apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026 pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026 if he gives me jacket \u0026 pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026 I can easily sell it.","Pa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026 that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026 there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026 got some boys to help me \u0026 got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.","Maj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026 Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026 somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026 if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.","I must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026 letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026 I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026 jelly \u0026. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026 keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026 have very good eating.","If I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026 will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.","You need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026 before I could get to my room \u0026 get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026 I don't think I will get any more demerit.","Wm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.","As well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026 Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026 were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026 dates.","My ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026 stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.","I have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.","I went up town to day \u0026 had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026 will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.","V.M.I. Oct 26 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026 I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.","You may sell my Jacket \u0026 Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026 pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026 keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.","I have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026 reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.","I have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026 I am sure I will need them.","They have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026 if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026 going out \u0026 drilling an hour.","How do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026 tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.","V.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.","Dear Pa \nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026 thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.","Gen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026 Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.","I had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026 I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026 skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.","I know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.","I have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026 at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.","I do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026 ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026 milk all the winter.","We get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026 drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.","(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026 will have a treat in reading them.","Dr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026 sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026 will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.","Gen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026 no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026 so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.","I am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026 wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.","There is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026 resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"","I do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026 am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.","I recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026 what he is doing. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ Henry Reid.","P.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026 see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard? \nHenry","Camp Carter's Station \nMarch 7th 1864","Dear Pa \nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.","We have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.","Besides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.","I must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","P.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026 send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.","Direct Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps.","The James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.","The papers also contain one letter (dated March 7 1864) written while Reid was serving with the 13th Virginia Light Artillery Regiment, Confederate States of America, and four letters that date between 1865 and 1867.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from Camp at Carter's Station. Letter regards life at camp.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","English \n.    "],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613"],"normalized_title_ssm":["James H. Reid papers"],"collection_title_tesim":["James H. Reid papers"],"collection_ssim":["James H. Reid papers"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"creator_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"creators_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["18 items"],"extent_tesim":["18 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1862,1863,1864,1865,1866,1867],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e"],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"altformavail_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eA portion of the James H. Reid papers are avaliable \n\u003ca href=\"http://digitalcollections.vmi.edu/cdm/ref/collection/p15821coll11/id/2010\"\u003eonline\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e"],"altformavail_heading_ssm":["Online Access"],"altformavail_tesim":["A portion of the James H. Reid papers are avaliable \n online ."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDuring the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["James Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.","During the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV.M.I.\u003cbr\u003e\nAug 10, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026amp; staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026amp; went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026amp; Read went to town.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAfter supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026amp; was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026amp; wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026amp; drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026amp; got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026amp; made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026amp; sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026amp; Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026amp; saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026amp; am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026amp; I can hardly write.\u003cbr\u003e\nWith love to all I remain.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026amp; and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026amp; every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVMI Aug 14, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026amp; was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026amp;, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026amp; I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOur studies are math \u0026amp; French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026amp; some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026amp; 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026amp; none have made 15 since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026amp; none since. I got off from all of them \u0026amp; all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026amp; supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026amp; taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI like the V.M.I very much \u0026amp; do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026amp; I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026amp; T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026amp; accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOur clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026amp; Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026amp; an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026amp; caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026amp; hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026amp; they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026amp;c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026amp; long.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026amp; Mrs. Brown \u0026amp; every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026amp; sends his love. Henry.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 18 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nThe desk \u0026amp; was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026amp; got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026amp; Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026amp;. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026amp; sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026amp; sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOne of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026amp; had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026amp; arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026amp; stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026amp; overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026amp; Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDon't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026amp;. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026amp; returned are very hard on Rats \u0026amp; I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eRemember me to all my friends \u0026amp; write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026amp;. My pillow is a great deal of use.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 26 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIn regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026amp; finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026amp; all of them have gone home some days ago.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026amp; Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWe Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026amp; 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026amp; 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIn place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026amp; drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026amp; tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026amp; keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026amp; if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026amp; I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIt takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026amp; Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026amp; 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 28 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa \u0026amp; Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026amp; did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026amp; apples all recd safe \u0026amp; sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026amp;\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026amp; 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026amp; 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026amp; overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026amp; small Va staff buttons.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sep 14 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026amp; write you immediately.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSince the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026amp; Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026amp; Tattoo at 9½.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026amp; 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026amp; I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOver 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026amp; of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026amp; did not even run for the 3rd class.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026amp; is responsible for noises \u0026amp;). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026amp; I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026amp; would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIf our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026amp; let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eTen cadets deserted the other day \u0026amp; 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026amp; all my friends.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI remain\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sep 20, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWhen I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026amp; by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026amp; a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026amp; fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026amp; my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026amp; 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026amp; the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026amp; double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026amp; came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026amp; he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026amp; get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026amp; overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026amp; the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sept 27 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIt seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026amp; buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026amp; get it on Saturday.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026amp; got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026amp;. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026amp; I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026amp; expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV .M.I. Sept 30 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSpeaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026amp; have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026amp; is responsible for all trifling \u0026amp; talking in ranks \u0026amp;c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWhat is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026amp; returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026amp; all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003ePlease don't forget the cap cover \u0026amp; skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026amp; was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026amp; myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026amp;c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026amp; you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 5 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026amp; apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026amp; pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026amp; if he gives me jacket \u0026amp; pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026amp; I can easily sell it.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003ePa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026amp; that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026amp; there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026amp; got some boys to help me \u0026amp; got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMaj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026amp; 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026amp; Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026amp; somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026amp; if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa \u0026amp; Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026amp; letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026amp; I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026amp; jelly \u0026amp;. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026amp; keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026amp; have very good eating.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIf I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026amp; will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYou need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026amp; before I could get to my room \u0026amp; get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026amp; 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026amp; I don't think I will get any more demerit.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAs well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026amp; Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026amp; were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026amp; dates.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026amp; stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI went up town to day \u0026amp; had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026amp; will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 26 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026amp; I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYou may sell my Jacket \u0026amp; Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026amp; pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026amp; keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026amp; 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026amp; reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026amp; I am sure I will need them.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThey have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026amp; if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026amp; going out \u0026amp; drilling an hour.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eHow do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026amp; tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026amp; thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026amp; Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026amp; I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026amp;. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026amp; skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026amp; at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026amp; ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026amp; milk all the winter.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWe get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026amp; drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003e(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026amp; will have a treat in reading them.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026amp; sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026amp; will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026amp; no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026amp; so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026amp; wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThere is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026amp; resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026amp; am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026amp; what he is doing. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026amp; see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard?\u003cbr\u003e\nHenry\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp Carter's Station\u003cbr\u003e\nMarch 7th 1864\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWe have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eBesides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026amp;. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026amp; send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDirect Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V.M.I. \nAug 10, 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026 staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026 went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026 Read went to town.","After supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026 was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026 wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026 drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026 got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026 made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026 sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026 Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026 saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.","I went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026 am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026 I can hardly write. \nWith love to all I remain.","Your affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026 and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026 every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.","VMI Aug 14, 1862","Dear Pa \nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026 was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.","I have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026 I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.","Our studies are math \u0026 French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026 some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026 none have made 15 since I have been here.","I got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026 none since. I got off from all of them \u0026 all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026 supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026 taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.","I like the V.M.I very much \u0026 do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026 I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.","I have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026 T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026 accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.","Our clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026 Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026 an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026 caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026 hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026 they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026 long. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026 Mrs. Brown \u0026 every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026 sends his love. Henry.","V.M.I. Aug 18 1862","Dear Pa \nThe desk \u0026 was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026 got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026 Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026 sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026 sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.","One of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026 had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026 arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026 stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026 overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026 Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.","Don't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.","My left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026 returned are very hard on Rats \u0026 I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"","I will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Remember me to all my friends \u0026 write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026. My pillow is a great deal of use.","V.M.I. Aug 26 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.","In regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026 finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026 all of them have gone home some days ago.","I have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026 Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.","We Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.","In place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026 drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026 tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.","I have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026 keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026 if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026 I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all, \nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","It takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026 Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.","V.M.I. Aug 28 1862","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026 did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026 apples all recd safe \u0026 sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026.","I have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.","My finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026 overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026 small Va staff buttons.","V.M.I. Sep 14 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026.","Gen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026 write you immediately.","Since the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026 Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026 Tattoo at 9½.","The last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026 I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.","Over 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026 of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026 did not even run for the 3rd class.","I have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026 is responsible for noises \u0026). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026 I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.","I am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026 would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.","If our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026 let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.","Ten cadets deserted the other day \u0026 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026 all my friends.","I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Sep 20, 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.","When I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026 by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026 a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026 fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026 my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.","I have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026 the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026 double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026 came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026 he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.","I have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.","I asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026 overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026 the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,","I remain, \nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.","P.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026.","V.M.I. Sept 27 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"","It seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026 buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.","I can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday.","I have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026 got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026 I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026 expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.","I must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V .M.I. Sept 30 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.","Speaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.","I have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026 have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.","I have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"","I have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026 is responsible for all trifling \u0026 talking in ranks \u0026c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.","What is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026 returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026 all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Please don't forget the cap cover \u0026 skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026 was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026 myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026 you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.","V.M.I. Oct 5 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026 apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026 pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026 if he gives me jacket \u0026 pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026 I can easily sell it.","Pa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026 that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026 there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026 got some boys to help me \u0026 got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.","Maj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026 Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026 somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026 if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.","I must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026 letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026 I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026 jelly \u0026. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026 keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026 have very good eating.","If I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026 will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.","You need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026 before I could get to my room \u0026 get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026 I don't think I will get any more demerit.","Wm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.","As well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026 Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026 were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026 dates.","My ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026 stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.","I have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.","I went up town to day \u0026 had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026 will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.","V.M.I. Oct 26 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026 I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.","You may sell my Jacket \u0026 Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026 pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026 keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.","I have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026 reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.","I have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026 I am sure I will need them.","They have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026 if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026 going out \u0026 drilling an hour.","How do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026 tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.","V.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.","Dear Pa \nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026 thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.","Gen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026 Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.","I had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026 I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026 skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.","I know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.","I have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026 at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.","I do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026 ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026 milk all the winter.","We get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026 drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.","(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026 will have a treat in reading them.","Dr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026 sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026 will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.","Gen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026 no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026 so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.","I am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026 wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.","There is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026 resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"","I do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026 am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.","I recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026 what he is doing. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ Henry Reid.","P.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026 see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard? \nHenry","Camp Carter's Station \nMarch 7th 1864","Dear Pa \nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.","We have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.","Besides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.","I must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","P.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026 send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.","Direct Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames H. Reid papers, 1862-1867. MS 0222. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["James H. Reid papers, 1862-1867. MS 0222. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe papers also contain one letter (dated March 7 1864) written while Reid was serving with the 13th Virginia Light Artillery Regiment, Confederate States of America, and four letters that date between 1865 and 1867.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Camp at Carter's Station. Letter regards life at camp.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.","The papers also contain one letter (dated March 7 1864) written while Reid was serving with the 13th Virginia Light Artillery Regiment, Confederate States of America, and four letters that date between 1865 and 1867.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from Camp at Carter's Station. Letter regards life at camp."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e"],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_b7b56d7445b436a790a7777302cc9008\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e"],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"names_coll_ssim":["Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878"],"persname_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"language_ssim":["English \n.    "],"total_component_count_is":19,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:09:24.880Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c04"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618_c01","type":"Item","attributes":{"title":"Letter to John W. C. Watson","abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618_c01#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edward M. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study and recitation, drill and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618_c01#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"ref_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618_c01","ref_ssm":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618_c01"],"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618_c01","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618","parent_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618","parent_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618"],"parent_ids_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618"],"parent_unittitles_ssm":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"parent_unittitles_tesim":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"text":["Edward M. Watson letter","Letter to John W. C. Watson","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1872","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence","English .","V.M.I., Sept. 17th, 1868","Dear Pa,","As I expected when I wrote to Ma, I reported to Gen. Smith on Monday morning and went into barracks the same day. Now, as I promised to do before I left home, I will give an account of how I spent the next day after my arrival, and in doing that I tell what has passed every day since and will pass every day to come, Saturdays and Sundays excepted, for the next ten months.","I will begin my description just at 5 o'clock when I awakened by a most dreadful noise. I at first thought that the house was falling or that a volcano had burst in about a quarter of a mile from - I hardly knew where, as I found myself lying with nothing between me and floor except a mattress about three feet wide. I was soon enlightened as to the cause of the disturbance by an old cadet who in the dim light of the very early morning","[End of letter written vertically at right top]","Since finishing the last line I have received Jim's letter. Present the old fellow my compliments and tell him to do so some more. Tell Sister Cora please to write quick. I will write to Sis Lis in a few days. I intended to copy this letter but the drum is sounding and I must close. You must answer this soon. s/Eddie","morning, as he stood dressing close by, I had not noticed. He remarked in a tone which seemed anything but motherly, \"Rat, get up, Sir, and go to reveille.\" At this I opened my eyes somewhat wider, and remembering the state of affairs, I thought it best to do as he said. I got up and doing as he did, hurried on my clothes, not tying my shoes or washing my face or combing my hair, and rushed frantically down three flights of steps to the front of the barracks. All the cadets were there before me. We fell in companies and answered to our names as the Or. Sr. called the roll. We were then disbanded and were given ½ hour to make our toilets and clean up our room.","In cleaning up our room we have to take everything from the tables and chairs and put them in their proper place and have to roll up our beds in a bundle about 2 feet in diameter and lay them in a corner. At the end of the half hour the inspector visits and sees that everything is right. Then in a few minutes the drum calls us to the front and we fall in and after our names have been called we march into the breakfast room. Each one having reached the seat assigned assumes the position of a soldier and standing staring the boy on the opposite of the table in the face (who by the way in my case is mighty ugly), we have to wait until everybody has formed in his place. Then at the word \"be seated\" each head of the three hundred cadets bobs down and we commence eating.","At the end of fifteen minutes we are commanded to rise. We at the door again fall in and march round to the front, there we disband. For fifteen minutes we do what we please. Then the drum calls us to study. We recite until one o'clock when time is given for dinner. We march to dinner and march back as we did at breakfast. At 2 o'clock we are again called to study. At 4 o'clock we are dismissed. At 4 ½ we are called for evening drill. The drill lasts 1 ½ hours. We have then 15 minutes to fix for dress parade. After parade 5 minutes is given to change clothes. We then march to supper and the dinner ceremony is repeated. We have then 15 minutes, when we are called to study. We study until half past nine when we are called to tattoo. Then in five minutes the drum sounds for blowing out lights. The inspector visits immediately to see that everybody is in bed and then nothing is heard but the tread or challenge of the sentinel until five in the morning.","Now, Pa, when you remember that we are compelled to clean our shoes before falling in ranks every time and that it must be done well, for even a speck on the heel is noticed, you must know that I am right busy. Tell Sis Lizzie I have entered the third class and am studying mathematics, Descriptive Geometry. Give everybody my love and write soon. Tell Ma and Sister that I do love them a heap more for their letters which were received just when I was most homesick. Kiss Sister Cora and ask her please to write. Tell Jim to give my love to Miss Vee and fulfill his promise. \nGoodbye. \nYour Affectionate Son, \ns/ Eddie Watson, Cadet","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edward M. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study and recitation, drill and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet."],"title_filing_ssi":"Letter to John W. C. Watson","title_ssm":["Letter to John W. C. Watson"],"title_tesim":["Letter to John W. C. Watson"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1868 September 17"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1868"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Letter to John W. C. Watson"],"component_level_isim":[1],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"collection_ssim":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"child_component_count_isi":0,"level_ssm":["Item"],"level_ssim":["Item"],"sort_isi":1,"parent_access_restrict_tesm":["There are no restrictions."],"parent_access_terms_tesm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"date_range_isim":[1868],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1872","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1872","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence"],"language_ssim":["English ."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV.M.I., Sept. 17th, 1868\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa,\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAs I expected when I wrote to Ma, I reported to Gen. Smith on Monday morning and went into barracks the same day. Now, as I promised to do before I left home, I will give an account of how I spent the next day after my arrival, and in doing that I tell what has passed every day since and will pass every day to come, Saturdays and Sundays excepted, for the next ten months.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI will begin my description just at 5 o'clock when I awakened by a most dreadful noise. I at first thought that the house was falling or that a volcano had burst in about a quarter of a mile from - I hardly knew where, as I found myself lying with nothing between me and floor except a mattress about three feet wide. I was soon enlightened as to the cause of the disturbance by an old cadet who in the dim light of the very early morning\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e[End of letter written vertically at right top]\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eSince finishing the last line I have received Jim's letter. Present the old fellow my compliments and tell him to do so some more. Tell Sister Cora please to write quick. I will write to Sis Lis in a few days. I intended to copy this letter but the drum is sounding and I must close. You must answer this soon. s/Eddie\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003emorning, as he stood dressing close by, I had not noticed. He remarked in a tone which seemed anything but motherly, \"Rat, get up, Sir, and go to reveille.\" At this I opened my eyes somewhat wider, and remembering the state of affairs, I thought it best to do as he said. I got up and doing as he did, hurried on my clothes, not tying my shoes or washing my face or combing my hair, and rushed frantically down three flights of steps to the front of the barracks. All the cadets were there before me. We fell in companies and answered to our names as the Or. Sr. called the roll. We were then disbanded and were given ½ hour to make our toilets and clean up our room.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIn cleaning up our room we have to take everything from the tables and chairs and put them in their proper place and have to roll up our beds in a bundle about 2 feet in diameter and lay them in a corner. At the end of the half hour the inspector visits and sees that everything is right. Then in a few minutes the drum calls us to the front and we fall in and after our names have been called we march into the breakfast room. Each one having reached the seat assigned assumes the position of a soldier and standing staring the boy on the opposite of the table in the face (who by the way in my case is mighty ugly), we have to wait until everybody has formed in his place. Then at the word \"be seated\" each head of the three hundred cadets bobs down and we commence eating.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAt the end of fifteen minutes we are commanded to rise. We at the door again fall in and march round to the front, there we disband. For fifteen minutes we do what we please. Then the drum calls us to study. We recite until one o'clock when time is given for dinner. We march to dinner and march back as we did at breakfast. At 2 o'clock we are again called to study. At 4 o'clock we are dismissed. At 4 ½ we are called for evening drill. The drill lasts 1 ½ hours. We have then 15 minutes to fix for dress parade. After parade 5 minutes is given to change clothes. We then march to supper and the dinner ceremony is repeated. We have then 15 minutes, when we are called to study. We study until half past nine when we are called to tattoo. Then in five minutes the drum sounds for blowing out lights. The inspector visits immediately to see that everybody is in bed and then nothing is heard but the tread or challenge of the sentinel until five in the morning.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eNow, Pa, when you remember that we are compelled to clean our shoes before falling in ranks every time and that it must be done well, for even a speck on the heel is noticed, you must know that I am right busy. Tell Sis Lizzie I have entered the third class and am studying mathematics, Descriptive Geometry. Give everybody my love and write soon. Tell Ma and Sister that I do love them a heap more for their letters which were received just when I was most homesick. Kiss Sister Cora and ask her please to write. Tell Jim to give my love to Miss Vee and fulfill his promise.\u003cbr/\u003e\nGoodbye.\u003cbr/\u003e\nYour Affectionate Son,\u003cbr/\u003e\ns/ Eddie Watson, Cadet\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V.M.I., Sept. 17th, 1868","Dear Pa,","As I expected when I wrote to Ma, I reported to Gen. Smith on Monday morning and went into barracks the same day. Now, as I promised to do before I left home, I will give an account of how I spent the next day after my arrival, and in doing that I tell what has passed every day since and will pass every day to come, Saturdays and Sundays excepted, for the next ten months.","I will begin my description just at 5 o'clock when I awakened by a most dreadful noise. I at first thought that the house was falling or that a volcano had burst in about a quarter of a mile from - I hardly knew where, as I found myself lying with nothing between me and floor except a mattress about three feet wide. I was soon enlightened as to the cause of the disturbance by an old cadet who in the dim light of the very early morning","[End of letter written vertically at right top]","Since finishing the last line I have received Jim's letter. Present the old fellow my compliments and tell him to do so some more. Tell Sister Cora please to write quick. I will write to Sis Lis in a few days. I intended to copy this letter but the drum is sounding and I must close. You must answer this soon. s/Eddie","morning, as he stood dressing close by, I had not noticed. He remarked in a tone which seemed anything but motherly, \"Rat, get up, Sir, and go to reveille.\" At this I opened my eyes somewhat wider, and remembering the state of affairs, I thought it best to do as he said. I got up and doing as he did, hurried on my clothes, not tying my shoes or washing my face or combing my hair, and rushed frantically down three flights of steps to the front of the barracks. All the cadets were there before me. We fell in companies and answered to our names as the Or. Sr. called the roll. We were then disbanded and were given ½ hour to make our toilets and clean up our room.","In cleaning up our room we have to take everything from the tables and chairs and put them in their proper place and have to roll up our beds in a bundle about 2 feet in diameter and lay them in a corner. At the end of the half hour the inspector visits and sees that everything is right. Then in a few minutes the drum calls us to the front and we fall in and after our names have been called we march into the breakfast room. Each one having reached the seat assigned assumes the position of a soldier and standing staring the boy on the opposite of the table in the face (who by the way in my case is mighty ugly), we have to wait until everybody has formed in his place. Then at the word \"be seated\" each head of the three hundred cadets bobs down and we commence eating.","At the end of fifteen minutes we are commanded to rise. We at the door again fall in and march round to the front, there we disband. For fifteen minutes we do what we please. Then the drum calls us to study. We recite until one o'clock when time is given for dinner. We march to dinner and march back as we did at breakfast. At 2 o'clock we are again called to study. At 4 o'clock we are dismissed. At 4 ½ we are called for evening drill. The drill lasts 1 ½ hours. We have then 15 minutes to fix for dress parade. After parade 5 minutes is given to change clothes. We then march to supper and the dinner ceremony is repeated. We have then 15 minutes, when we are called to study. We study until half past nine when we are called to tattoo. Then in five minutes the drum sounds for blowing out lights. The inspector visits immediately to see that everybody is in bed and then nothing is heard but the tread or challenge of the sentinel until five in the morning.","Now, Pa, when you remember that we are compelled to clean our shoes before falling in ranks every time and that it must be done well, for even a speck on the heel is noticed, you must know that I am right busy. Tell Sis Lizzie I have entered the third class and am studying mathematics, Descriptive Geometry. Give everybody my love and write soon. Tell Ma and Sister that I do love them a heap more for their letters which were received just when I was most homesick. Kiss Sister Cora and ask her please to write. Tell Jim to give my love to Miss Vee and fulfill his promise. \nGoodbye. \nYour Affectionate Son, \ns/ Eddie Watson, Cadet"],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edward M. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study and recitation, drill and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edward M. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study and recitation, drill and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet."],"_nest_path_":"/components#0","timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:10:53.151Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_618.xml","title_ssm":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"title_tesim":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"unitdate_ssm":["1868 September 17"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1868 September 17"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0011","/repositories/3/resources/618"],"text":["MS.0011","/repositories/3/resources/618","Edward M. Watson letter","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1872","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","Edward Minor Watson was born in 1851, the son of John W. C. Watson, a lawyer and judge. He entered VMI on September 14, 1868, from his home in Holly Springs, Mississippi and studied at VMI for one academic year, resigning his cadetship in 1869. Watson subsequently read law and received his license in 1871. He served as an attorney in the Department of Justice during President Grover Cleveland's first administration. Watson married Lily Moore of Noxubee County, Mississippi in 1871 and the couple had five children: Dudley, Edward, William, Jean, and Anne. He died on December 7, 1887.","V.M.I., Sept. 17th, 1868","Dear Pa,","As I expected when I wrote to Ma, I reported to Gen. Smith on Monday morning and went into barracks the same day. Now, as I promised to do before I left home, I will give an account of how I spent the next day after my arrival, and in doing that I tell what has passed every day since and will pass every day to come, Saturdays and Sundays excepted, for the next ten months.","I will begin my description just at 5 o'clock when I awakened by a most dreadful noise. I at first thought that the house was falling or that a volcano had burst in about a quarter of a mile from - I hardly knew where, as I found myself lying with nothing between me and floor except a mattress about three feet wide. I was soon enlightened as to the cause of the disturbance by an old cadet who in the dim light of the very early morning","[End of letter written vertically at right top]","Since finishing the last line I have received Jim's letter. Present the old fellow my compliments and tell him to do so some more. Tell Sister Cora please to write quick. I will write to Sis Lis in a few days. I intended to copy this letter but the drum is sounding and I must close. You must answer this soon. s/Eddie","morning, as he stood dressing close by, I had not noticed. He remarked in a tone which seemed anything but motherly, \"Rat, get up, Sir, and go to reveille.\" At this I opened my eyes somewhat wider, and remembering the state of affairs, I thought it best to do as he said. I got up and doing as he did, hurried on my clothes, not tying my shoes or washing my face or combing my hair, and rushed frantically down three flights of steps to the front of the barracks. All the cadets were there before me. We fell in companies and answered to our names as the Or. Sr. called the roll. We were then disbanded and were given ½ hour to make our toilets and clean up our room.","In cleaning up our room we have to take everything from the tables and chairs and put them in their proper place and have to roll up our beds in a bundle about 2 feet in diameter and lay them in a corner. At the end of the half hour the inspector visits and sees that everything is right. Then in a few minutes the drum calls us to the front and we fall in and after our names have been called we march into the breakfast room. Each one having reached the seat assigned assumes the position of a soldier and standing staring the boy on the opposite of the table in the face (who by the way in my case is mighty ugly), we have to wait until everybody has formed in his place. Then at the word \"be seated\" each head of the three hundred cadets bobs down and we commence eating.","At the end of fifteen minutes we are commanded to rise. We at the door again fall in and march round to the front, there we disband. For fifteen minutes we do what we please. Then the drum calls us to study. We recite until one o'clock when time is given for dinner. We march to dinner and march back as we did at breakfast. At 2 o'clock we are again called to study. At 4 o'clock we are dismissed. At 4 ½ we are called for evening drill. The drill lasts 1 ½ hours. We have then 15 minutes to fix for dress parade. After parade 5 minutes is given to change clothes. We then march to supper and the dinner ceremony is repeated. We have then 15 minutes, when we are called to study. We study until half past nine when we are called to tattoo. Then in five minutes the drum sounds for blowing out lights. The inspector visits immediately to see that everybody is in bed and then nothing is heard but the tread or challenge of the sentinel until five in the morning.","Now, Pa, when you remember that we are compelled to clean our shoes before falling in ranks every time and that it must be done well, for even a speck on the heel is noticed, you must know that I am right busy. Tell Sis Lizzie I have entered the third class and am studying mathematics, Descriptive Geometry. Give everybody my love and write soon. Tell Ma and Sister that I do love them a heap more for their letters which were received just when I was most homesick. Kiss Sister Cora and ask her please to write. Tell Jim to give my love to Miss Vee and fulfill his promise. \nGoodbye. \nYour Affectionate Son, \ns/ Eddie Watson, Cadet","This collection consists of one letter (September 17, 1868) written by Edward M. Watson to his father. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study, recitation, drill, and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edward M. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study and recitation, drill and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887","English \n.    "],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0011","/repositories/3/resources/618"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"collection_title_tesim":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"collection_ssim":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887"],"creator_ssim":["Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887"],"creators_ssim":["Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1872","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1872","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["1 items"],"extent_tesim":["1 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1868],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e"],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eEdward Minor Watson was born in 1851, the son of John W. C. Watson, a lawyer and judge. He entered VMI on September 14, 1868, from his home in Holly Springs, Mississippi and studied at VMI for one academic year, resigning his cadetship in 1869. Watson subsequently read law and received his license in 1871. He served as an attorney in the Department of Justice during President Grover Cleveland's first administration. Watson married Lily Moore of Noxubee County, Mississippi in 1871 and the couple had five children: Dudley, Edward, William, Jean, and Anne. He died on December 7, 1887.\u003c/p\u003e"],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Edward Minor Watson was born in 1851, the son of John W. C. Watson, a lawyer and judge. He entered VMI on September 14, 1868, from his home in Holly Springs, Mississippi and studied at VMI for one academic year, resigning his cadetship in 1869. Watson subsequently read law and received his license in 1871. He served as an attorney in the Department of Justice during President Grover Cleveland's first administration. Watson married Lily Moore of Noxubee County, Mississippi in 1871 and the couple had five children: Dudley, Edward, William, Jean, and Anne. He died on December 7, 1887."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV.M.I., Sept. 17th, 1868\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa,\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAs I expected when I wrote to Ma, I reported to Gen. Smith on Monday morning and went into barracks the same day. Now, as I promised to do before I left home, I will give an account of how I spent the next day after my arrival, and in doing that I tell what has passed every day since and will pass every day to come, Saturdays and Sundays excepted, for the next ten months.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI will begin my description just at 5 o'clock when I awakened by a most dreadful noise. I at first thought that the house was falling or that a volcano had burst in about a quarter of a mile from - I hardly knew where, as I found myself lying with nothing between me and floor except a mattress about three feet wide. I was soon enlightened as to the cause of the disturbance by an old cadet who in the dim light of the very early morning\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003e[End of letter written vertically at right top]\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSince finishing the last line I have received Jim's letter. Present the old fellow my compliments and tell him to do so some more. Tell Sister Cora please to write quick. I will write to Sis Lis in a few days. I intended to copy this letter but the drum is sounding and I must close. You must answer this soon. s/Eddie\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003emorning, as he stood dressing close by, I had not noticed. He remarked in a tone which seemed anything but motherly, \"Rat, get up, Sir, and go to reveille.\" At this I opened my eyes somewhat wider, and remembering the state of affairs, I thought it best to do as he said. I got up and doing as he did, hurried on my clothes, not tying my shoes or washing my face or combing my hair, and rushed frantically down three flights of steps to the front of the barracks. All the cadets were there before me. We fell in companies and answered to our names as the Or. Sr. called the roll. We were then disbanded and were given ½ hour to make our toilets and clean up our room.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIn cleaning up our room we have to take everything from the tables and chairs and put them in their proper place and have to roll up our beds in a bundle about 2 feet in diameter and lay them in a corner. At the end of the half hour the inspector visits and sees that everything is right. Then in a few minutes the drum calls us to the front and we fall in and after our names have been called we march into the breakfast room. Each one having reached the seat assigned assumes the position of a soldier and standing staring the boy on the opposite of the table in the face (who by the way in my case is mighty ugly), we have to wait until everybody has formed in his place. Then at the word \"be seated\" each head of the three hundred cadets bobs down and we commence eating.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAt the end of fifteen minutes we are commanded to rise. We at the door again fall in and march round to the front, there we disband. For fifteen minutes we do what we please. Then the drum calls us to study. We recite until one o'clock when time is given for dinner. We march to dinner and march back as we did at breakfast. At 2 o'clock we are again called to study. At 4 o'clock we are dismissed. At 4 ½ we are called for evening drill. The drill lasts 1 ½ hours. We have then 15 minutes to fix for dress parade. After parade 5 minutes is given to change clothes. We then march to supper and the dinner ceremony is repeated. We have then 15 minutes, when we are called to study. We study until half past nine when we are called to tattoo. Then in five minutes the drum sounds for blowing out lights. The inspector visits immediately to see that everybody is in bed and then nothing is heard but the tread or challenge of the sentinel until five in the morning.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eNow, Pa, when you remember that we are compelled to clean our shoes before falling in ranks every time and that it must be done well, for even a speck on the heel is noticed, you must know that I am right busy. Tell Sis Lizzie I have entered the third class and am studying mathematics, Descriptive Geometry. Give everybody my love and write soon. Tell Ma and Sister that I do love them a heap more for their letters which were received just when I was most homesick. Kiss Sister Cora and ask her please to write. Tell Jim to give my love to Miss Vee and fulfill his promise.\u003cbr\u003e\nGoodbye.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour Affectionate Son,\u003cbr\u003e\ns/ Eddie Watson, Cadet\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V.M.I., Sept. 17th, 1868","Dear Pa,","As I expected when I wrote to Ma, I reported to Gen. Smith on Monday morning and went into barracks the same day. Now, as I promised to do before I left home, I will give an account of how I spent the next day after my arrival, and in doing that I tell what has passed every day since and will pass every day to come, Saturdays and Sundays excepted, for the next ten months.","I will begin my description just at 5 o'clock when I awakened by a most dreadful noise. I at first thought that the house was falling or that a volcano had burst in about a quarter of a mile from - I hardly knew where, as I found myself lying with nothing between me and floor except a mattress about three feet wide. I was soon enlightened as to the cause of the disturbance by an old cadet who in the dim light of the very early morning","[End of letter written vertically at right top]","Since finishing the last line I have received Jim's letter. Present the old fellow my compliments and tell him to do so some more. Tell Sister Cora please to write quick. I will write to Sis Lis in a few days. I intended to copy this letter but the drum is sounding and I must close. You must answer this soon. s/Eddie","morning, as he stood dressing close by, I had not noticed. He remarked in a tone which seemed anything but motherly, \"Rat, get up, Sir, and go to reveille.\" At this I opened my eyes somewhat wider, and remembering the state of affairs, I thought it best to do as he said. I got up and doing as he did, hurried on my clothes, not tying my shoes or washing my face or combing my hair, and rushed frantically down three flights of steps to the front of the barracks. All the cadets were there before me. We fell in companies and answered to our names as the Or. Sr. called the roll. We were then disbanded and were given ½ hour to make our toilets and clean up our room.","In cleaning up our room we have to take everything from the tables and chairs and put them in their proper place and have to roll up our beds in a bundle about 2 feet in diameter and lay them in a corner. At the end of the half hour the inspector visits and sees that everything is right. Then in a few minutes the drum calls us to the front and we fall in and after our names have been called we march into the breakfast room. Each one having reached the seat assigned assumes the position of a soldier and standing staring the boy on the opposite of the table in the face (who by the way in my case is mighty ugly), we have to wait until everybody has formed in his place. Then at the word \"be seated\" each head of the three hundred cadets bobs down and we commence eating.","At the end of fifteen minutes we are commanded to rise. We at the door again fall in and march round to the front, there we disband. For fifteen minutes we do what we please. Then the drum calls us to study. We recite until one o'clock when time is given for dinner. We march to dinner and march back as we did at breakfast. At 2 o'clock we are again called to study. At 4 o'clock we are dismissed. At 4 ½ we are called for evening drill. The drill lasts 1 ½ hours. We have then 15 minutes to fix for dress parade. After parade 5 minutes is given to change clothes. We then march to supper and the dinner ceremony is repeated. We have then 15 minutes, when we are called to study. We study until half past nine when we are called to tattoo. Then in five minutes the drum sounds for blowing out lights. The inspector visits immediately to see that everybody is in bed and then nothing is heard but the tread or challenge of the sentinel until five in the morning.","Now, Pa, when you remember that we are compelled to clean our shoes before falling in ranks every time and that it must be done well, for even a speck on the heel is noticed, you must know that I am right busy. Tell Sis Lizzie I have entered the third class and am studying mathematics, Descriptive Geometry. Give everybody my love and write soon. Tell Ma and Sister that I do love them a heap more for their letters which were received just when I was most homesick. Kiss Sister Cora and ask her please to write. Tell Jim to give my love to Miss Vee and fulfill his promise. \nGoodbye. \nYour Affectionate Son, \ns/ Eddie Watson, Cadet"],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eEdward M. Watson ;etter, 1868 September 17. MS 0011. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["Edward M. Watson ;etter, 1868 September 17. MS 0011. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of one letter (September 17, 1868) written by Edward M. Watson to his father. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study, recitation, drill, and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edward M. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study and recitation, drill and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection consists of one letter (September 17, 1868) written by Edward M. Watson to his father. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study, recitation, drill, and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edward M. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study and recitation, drill and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e"],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. 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He also gives VMI news and complains about the food (early reference to \"growley\" a VMI slang word used for mess hall food).\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_234_c01#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"ref_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_234_c01","ref_ssm":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_234_c01"],"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_234_c01","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_234","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_234","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_234","parent_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_234","parent_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_234"],"parent_ids_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_234"],"parent_unittitles_ssm":["Edmund Berkeley letter"],"parent_unittitles_tesim":["Edmund Berkeley letter"],"text":["Edmund Berkeley letter","Letter to Mary Lawson Berkeley (Williams)","Berkeley, Edmund, 1847-1906","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","Virginia Military Institute—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence","English .","V. M. Institute Nov the 26th 1863","My beloved Mother, \nI received cousin Mary's letter yesterday evening informing me of the death of my precious little sister. I was never more grieved in my life. We must not grieve for her now for she has happily escaped the troubles of time to come. I remember how sweetly she used to sing the little hymn I Want to be an Angel. How little did I think she would so soon realize her wishes. I will not miss her so much as you all at home for when I return Meggy will be large enough to fill her place. I was dreaming of the dear little thing a few nights ago. I am so thankful it was not one of the larger ones that it goes a great deal easier with me now than I expected.  Do not grieve for her but be thankful it was not one of the large children who knew right from wrong. We all know how much happier she is now than she would possibly have been on this troublesome world.","I am enjoying very good health now. I hope you have gotten entirely well before now. I know how glad you will be to see Pa for I heard he had started for Evergreen. I am getting on very well indeed. The last time I went to see about my demerits which was two or three days ago I did not have a single one. I have made a 3 every day this week on Mathematick which is the highest mark. I believe I study harder than any one I know of here but I came here so late that I am not certain of standing the January examination.  We have very poor fare here. Today for breakfast we had only two pieces of bread and about a half gill of milk with what we call growly which is made of mutton beef beef feet or any other thing they can make for dinner. We have beef and cabbage or turnips one day and beef-steak and soup the next. We have nothing that I would have eaten at home but I am so hungry when I go to meals that I think even turnips delicious, but I live off of it very well. [Neph] is as fat as a hog and every one says I have fattened very much. I like here very much but do not like the idea of staying here two years before coming home. If you are sick please send for me. Miss Herriot is very anxious to get to you she was very kind indeed to me when I was at the Rockbridge with the Corps.  If Mr. M. and Mr. B. come out with a wagon send Mr. B. to the springs and Miss H. will certainly come. Give my best love to Cousins L. and M. and my dear Sister. Kiss my precious little darlings from Louis down. Do keep Louis at home. Make them all kiss you every night and morning for me. Take care of yourself my precious Mother. Write soon. Give my love to Francis \u0026 Mr. Spring and remember me to all the Neighbors and servants and believe me ever your devoted son. \n[Neph] sends his love to all. \nEdmund Berkely","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edmund Berkeley has been informed of his sister's death and offers consolation to his mother. He also gives VMI news and complains about the food (early reference to \"growley\" a VMI slang word used for mess hall food)."],"title_filing_ssi":"Letter to Mary Lawson Berkeley (Williams)","title_ssm":["Letter to Mary Lawson Berkeley (Williams)"],"title_tesim":["Letter to Mary Lawson Berkeley (Williams)"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1863 November 26"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1863"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Letter to Mary Lawson Berkeley (Williams)"],"component_level_isim":[1],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"collection_ssim":["Edmund Berkeley letter"],"creator_ssim":["Berkeley, Edmund, 1847-1906"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"child_component_count_isi":0,"level_ssm":["Item"],"level_ssim":["Item"],"sort_isi":1,"parent_access_restrict_tesm":["There are no restrictions."],"parent_access_terms_tesm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"date_range_isim":[1863],"names_ssim":["Berkeley, Edmund, 1847-1906"],"persname_ssim":["Berkeley, Edmund, 1847-1906"],"access_subjects_ssim":["New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","Virginia Military Institute—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","Virginia Military Institute—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence"],"language_ssim":["English ."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV. M. Institute Nov the 26th 1863\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy beloved Mother,\u003cbr/\u003e\nI received cousin Mary's letter yesterday evening informing me of the death of my precious little sister. I was never more grieved in my life. We must not grieve for her now for she has happily escaped the troubles of time to come. I remember how sweetly she used to sing the little hymn I Want to be an Angel. How little did I think she would so soon realize her wishes. I will not miss her so much as you all at home for when I return Meggy will be large enough to fill her place. I was dreaming of the dear little thing a few nights ago. I am so thankful it was not one of the larger ones that it goes a great deal easier with me now than I expected.  Do not grieve for her but be thankful it was not one of the large children who knew right from wrong. We all know how much happier she is now than she would possibly have been on this troublesome world.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI am enjoying very good health now. I hope you have gotten entirely well before now. I know how glad you will be to see Pa for I heard he had started for Evergreen. I am getting on very well indeed. The last time I went to see about my demerits which was two or three days ago I did not have a single one. I have made a 3 every day this week on Mathematick which is the highest mark. I believe I study harder than any one I know of here but I came here so late that I am not certain of standing the January examination.  We have very poor fare here. Today for breakfast we had only two pieces of bread and about a half gill of milk with what we call growly which is made of mutton beef beef feet or any other thing they can make for dinner. We have beef and cabbage or turnips one day and beef-steak and soup the next. We have nothing that I would have eaten at home but I am so hungry when I go to meals that I think even turnips delicious, but I live off of it very well. [Neph] is as fat as a hog and every one says I have fattened very much. I like here very much but do not like the idea of staying here two years before coming home. If you are sick please send for me. Miss Herriot is very anxious to get to you she was very kind indeed to me when I was at the Rockbridge with the Corps.  If Mr. M. and Mr. B. come out with a wagon send Mr. B. to the springs and Miss H. will certainly come. Give my best love to Cousins L. and M. and my dear Sister. Kiss my precious little darlings from Louis down. Do keep Louis at home. Make them all kiss you every night and morning for me. Take care of yourself my precious Mother. Write soon. Give my love to Francis \u0026amp; Mr. Spring and remember me to all the Neighbors and servants and believe me ever your devoted son.\u003cbr/\u003e\n[Neph] sends his love to all.\u003cbr/\u003e\nEdmund Berkely\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V. M. Institute Nov the 26th 1863","My beloved Mother, \nI received cousin Mary's letter yesterday evening informing me of the death of my precious little sister. I was never more grieved in my life. We must not grieve for her now for she has happily escaped the troubles of time to come. I remember how sweetly she used to sing the little hymn I Want to be an Angel. How little did I think she would so soon realize her wishes. I will not miss her so much as you all at home for when I return Meggy will be large enough to fill her place. I was dreaming of the dear little thing a few nights ago. I am so thankful it was not one of the larger ones that it goes a great deal easier with me now than I expected.  Do not grieve for her but be thankful it was not one of the large children who knew right from wrong. We all know how much happier she is now than she would possibly have been on this troublesome world.","I am enjoying very good health now. I hope you have gotten entirely well before now. I know how glad you will be to see Pa for I heard he had started for Evergreen. I am getting on very well indeed. The last time I went to see about my demerits which was two or three days ago I did not have a single one. I have made a 3 every day this week on Mathematick which is the highest mark. I believe I study harder than any one I know of here but I came here so late that I am not certain of standing the January examination.  We have very poor fare here. Today for breakfast we had only two pieces of bread and about a half gill of milk with what we call growly which is made of mutton beef beef feet or any other thing they can make for dinner. We have beef and cabbage or turnips one day and beef-steak and soup the next. We have nothing that I would have eaten at home but I am so hungry when I go to meals that I think even turnips delicious, but I live off of it very well. [Neph] is as fat as a hog and every one says I have fattened very much. I like here very much but do not like the idea of staying here two years before coming home. If you are sick please send for me. Miss Herriot is very anxious to get to you she was very kind indeed to me when I was at the Rockbridge with the Corps.  If Mr. M. and Mr. B. come out with a wagon send Mr. B. to the springs and Miss H. will certainly come. Give my best love to Cousins L. and M. and my dear Sister. Kiss my precious little darlings from Louis down. Do keep Louis at home. Make them all kiss you every night and morning for me. Take care of yourself my precious Mother. Write soon. Give my love to Francis \u0026 Mr. Spring and remember me to all the Neighbors and servants and believe me ever your devoted son. \n[Neph] sends his love to all. \nEdmund Berkely"],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edmund Berkeley has been informed of his sister's death and offers consolation to his mother. He also gives VMI news and complains about the food (early reference to \"growley\" a VMI slang word used for mess hall food).\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edmund Berkeley has been informed of his sister's death and offers consolation to his mother. He also gives VMI news and complains about the food (early reference to \"growley\" a VMI slang word used for mess hall food)."],"_nest_path_":"/components#0","timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:11:50.328Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_234","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_234","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_234","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_234","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_234.xml","title_ssm":["Edmund Berkeley letter"],"title_tesim":["Edmund Berkeley letter"],"unitdate_ssm":["1863 November 26"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1863 November 26"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0154","/repositories/3/resources/234"],"text":["MS.0154","/repositories/3/resources/234","Edmund Berkeley letter","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","Edmund Berkeley was born in 1847 in Aldie, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. After the Civil War he became a railroad executive. Berkeley died in 1906 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and is buried in Haymarket, Virginia.","V. M. Institute Nov the 26th 1863","My beloved Mother, \nI received cousin Mary's letter yesterday evening informing me of the death of my precious little sister. I was never more grieved in my life. We must not grieve for her now for she has happily escaped the troubles of time to come. I remember how sweetly she used to sing the little hymn I Want to be an Angel. How little did I think she would so soon realize her wishes. I will not miss her so much as you all at home for when I return Meggy will be large enough to fill her place. I was dreaming of the dear little thing a few nights ago. I am so thankful it was not one of the larger ones that it goes a great deal easier with me now than I expected.  Do not grieve for her but be thankful it was not one of the large children who knew right from wrong. We all know how much happier she is now than she would possibly have been on this troublesome world.","I am enjoying very good health now. I hope you have gotten entirely well before now. I know how glad you will be to see Pa for I heard he had started for Evergreen. I am getting on very well indeed. The last time I went to see about my demerits which was two or three days ago I did not have a single one. I have made a 3 every day this week on Mathematick which is the highest mark. I believe I study harder than any one I know of here but I came here so late that I am not certain of standing the January examination.  We have very poor fare here. Today for breakfast we had only two pieces of bread and about a half gill of milk with what we call growly which is made of mutton beef beef feet or any other thing they can make for dinner. We have beef and cabbage or turnips one day and beef-steak and soup the next. We have nothing that I would have eaten at home but I am so hungry when I go to meals that I think even turnips delicious, but I live off of it very well. [Neph] is as fat as a hog and every one says I have fattened very much. I like here very much but do not like the idea of staying here two years before coming home. If you are sick please send for me. Miss Herriot is very anxious to get to you she was very kind indeed to me when I was at the Rockbridge with the Corps.  If Mr. M. and Mr. B. come out with a wagon send Mr. B. to the springs and Miss H. will certainly come. Give my best love to Cousins L. and M. and my dear Sister. Kiss my precious little darlings from Louis down. Do keep Louis at home. Make them all kiss you every night and morning for me. Take care of yourself my precious Mother. Write soon. Give my love to Francis \u0026 Mr. Spring and remember me to all the Neighbors and servants and believe me ever your devoted son. \n[Neph] sends his love to all. \nEdmund Berkely","This collection consists of one letter from Edmund Berkeley to his mother Mary Lawson Berkeley (Williams). Berkeley has been informed of his sister's death and offers consolation to his mother. He also gives VMI news and complains about the food (early reference to \"growley\" a VMI slang word used for mess hall food).","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edmund Berkeley has been informed of his sister's death and offers consolation to his mother. He also gives VMI news and complains about the food (early reference to \"growley\" a VMI slang word used for mess hall food).","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. 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Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1867","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["1 items"],"extent_tesim":["1 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1863],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e"],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eEdmund Berkeley was born in 1847 in Aldie, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. After the Civil War he became a railroad executive. Berkeley died in 1906 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and is buried in Haymarket, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Edmund Berkeley was born in 1847 in Aldie, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1867 and was a New Market cadet. After the Civil War he became a railroad executive. Berkeley died in 1906 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and is buried in Haymarket, Virginia."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV. M. Institute Nov the 26th 1863\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy beloved Mother,\u003cbr\u003e\nI received cousin Mary's letter yesterday evening informing me of the death of my precious little sister. I was never more grieved in my life. We must not grieve for her now for she has happily escaped the troubles of time to come. I remember how sweetly she used to sing the little hymn I Want to be an Angel. How little did I think she would so soon realize her wishes. I will not miss her so much as you all at home for when I return Meggy will be large enough to fill her place. I was dreaming of the dear little thing a few nights ago. I am so thankful it was not one of the larger ones that it goes a great deal easier with me now than I expected.  Do not grieve for her but be thankful it was not one of the large children who knew right from wrong. We all know how much happier she is now than she would possibly have been on this troublesome world.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI am enjoying very good health now. I hope you have gotten entirely well before now. I know how glad you will be to see Pa for I heard he had started for Evergreen. I am getting on very well indeed. The last time I went to see about my demerits which was two or three days ago I did not have a single one. I have made a 3 every day this week on Mathematick which is the highest mark. I believe I study harder than any one I know of here but I came here so late that I am not certain of standing the January examination.  We have very poor fare here. Today for breakfast we had only two pieces of bread and about a half gill of milk with what we call growly which is made of mutton beef beef feet or any other thing they can make for dinner. We have beef and cabbage or turnips one day and beef-steak and soup the next. We have nothing that I would have eaten at home but I am so hungry when I go to meals that I think even turnips delicious, but I live off of it very well. [Neph] is as fat as a hog and every one says I have fattened very much. I like here very much but do not like the idea of staying here two years before coming home. If you are sick please send for me. Miss Herriot is very anxious to get to you she was very kind indeed to me when I was at the Rockbridge with the Corps.  If Mr. M. and Mr. B. come out with a wagon send Mr. B. to the springs and Miss H. will certainly come. Give my best love to Cousins L. and M. and my dear Sister. Kiss my precious little darlings from Louis down. Do keep Louis at home. Make them all kiss you every night and morning for me. Take care of yourself my precious Mother. Write soon. Give my love to Francis \u0026amp; Mr. Spring and remember me to all the Neighbors and servants and believe me ever your devoted son.\u003cbr\u003e\n[Neph] sends his love to all.\u003cbr\u003e\nEdmund Berkely\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V. M. Institute Nov the 26th 1863","My beloved Mother, \nI received cousin Mary's letter yesterday evening informing me of the death of my precious little sister. I was never more grieved in my life. We must not grieve for her now for she has happily escaped the troubles of time to come. I remember how sweetly she used to sing the little hymn I Want to be an Angel. How little did I think she would so soon realize her wishes. I will not miss her so much as you all at home for when I return Meggy will be large enough to fill her place. I was dreaming of the dear little thing a few nights ago. I am so thankful it was not one of the larger ones that it goes a great deal easier with me now than I expected.  Do not grieve for her but be thankful it was not one of the large children who knew right from wrong. We all know how much happier she is now than she would possibly have been on this troublesome world.","I am enjoying very good health now. I hope you have gotten entirely well before now. I know how glad you will be to see Pa for I heard he had started for Evergreen. I am getting on very well indeed. The last time I went to see about my demerits which was two or three days ago I did not have a single one. I have made a 3 every day this week on Mathematick which is the highest mark. I believe I study harder than any one I know of here but I came here so late that I am not certain of standing the January examination.  We have very poor fare here. Today for breakfast we had only two pieces of bread and about a half gill of milk with what we call growly which is made of mutton beef beef feet or any other thing they can make for dinner. We have beef and cabbage or turnips one day and beef-steak and soup the next. We have nothing that I would have eaten at home but I am so hungry when I go to meals that I think even turnips delicious, but I live off of it very well. [Neph] is as fat as a hog and every one says I have fattened very much. I like here very much but do not like the idea of staying here two years before coming home. If you are sick please send for me. Miss Herriot is very anxious to get to you she was very kind indeed to me when I was at the Rockbridge with the Corps.  If Mr. M. and Mr. B. come out with a wagon send Mr. B. to the springs and Miss H. will certainly come. Give my best love to Cousins L. and M. and my dear Sister. Kiss my precious little darlings from Louis down. Do keep Louis at home. Make them all kiss you every night and morning for me. Take care of yourself my precious Mother. Write soon. Give my love to Francis \u0026 Mr. Spring and remember me to all the Neighbors and servants and believe me ever your devoted son. \n[Neph] sends his love to all. \nEdmund Berkely"],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eEdmund Berkeley letter, 1863 November 26. MS 0154. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["Edmund Berkeley letter, 1863 November 26. MS 0154. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of one letter from Edmund Berkeley to his mother Mary Lawson Berkeley (Williams). 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