Calvin Shedd letter to wife, S. Augusta Shedd and daughters, March 15, 1862

              Fort Jefferson, Fla., March 15 1862

Dear Wife & Children 

I was very glad to hear from you, Yours of the 24th of Feb came to hand yesterday I have written you twice from here & to Mr Huse which he will show you You caution me about eating Fruit no danger of that at all that I have had was 3 Lemons that I paid 15 cts for everything is about twice as high as at the north There is a Rebel schooner lying here in a sinking condition that was taken by a Yankee GunBoat, the crew cut a hole to sink her but our men were to quick for them, the Gunboat fired 26 shots at her before she hove too but without injury.  She is loaded with Fruit & Liquors.  After the crew made the hole in her they took to their Boats and escaped somehow, I have not heard the particulars.  There was a Prize crew of Six put on board to take her to Key West but they could not keep her afloat and were