Calvin Shedd letter to wife, S. Augusta Shedd, April 14, 1863

              St. Augustine April 14, 1863 

Dear Wife 

I have just got off guard duty this morning a Steamer now in sight which proves to be the "Convoy" with the portion of the 7th that went to take Charleston ten thousand men marched up a hill, & then marched down again. probably you know more of the circumstances than we do. & I will not say much about it here now. the Convoy brings a very small mail none for me. the regular mail is on the Neptune which is expected this Eve, when I shall expect letters from home. I am not discouraged but I feel just like going to a "hanging" of those who are to blame for the last "fizzle." We feel that the blame lies with Hunter, but are not fully persuaded what the trouble is; the curses are loud and deep on him, it is believed that the best opportunity is lost for taking Charleston, and by reports taken over the "lines" had been led to consider the place as good as taken. we red of the swearing by the "army in Flanders" but one can hear it in the "South Army Corps." I have felt bad all the time that I could not go but I feel better about it now, and perhaps should have felt worse if I had gone.

April 15th The mail came in this morning I am in recpt of yours of the 19-23-26-&30th of March I assure you that I am very glad to hear that you are getting better. I want to see you once more if possible but it is doubtful if I do unless I live my term of service out. as things look to me we have much heavy work to do yet.

I dont know what to say about Heath so let him [     ] it is said that we shall be paid the first of May for six months & by hook or crook you must get along by begging or borrowing.