Manuscript Letter From a Union Soldier in Memphis, Tennessee.

Letter sheet (8x10), 4 pages, 3 1/2 pages of text. Some very minor bends at edges, a couple of very minor nicks, creased a little, slight aging and browning; otherwise in really nice condition. This highly legible letter to a father from his son talks about more than the "usual" life in an army camp. There are certainly routine matters covered, like receiving letters from family members and requests for money, but he also talks about his legal misfortunes. While it is unclear what issues are involved, it is clear he has some military legal problems, which he hopes to resolve by the time his regiment is 'mustered." The letter makes it sound like it is something important, and probably related to his military standing. His father appears to suggest that he should take his case to Washington, but the son decides to wait it out. The son (Jon) indicates that while he feels badly over his misfortunes, he really feels badly for his friends and relatives. This suggests, along with a comment about handling the impact on public opinion, that this case was a visible one. He also complains about the cost of living in the South, which he says is twice what it is in the North, and indicates he pays $10 per week for boarding. That would seem to be very high when measured at a soldier's pay during this period. He does throw in a couple of comments about the war including that "Sherman too is still in successful pursuit." he also states that nothing is heard from General Smith, "but his safety and success is a thing assured."