"Camp Curtin, Harrisburg
My dear Sister,
Your two letters have been received since my last. I have no idea that I am particularly smart but think Caleb Pierce Esq. shamefully stupid. I cautioned him to say nothing in regard to the matter until it should become public. As soon as it was definitely arranged that we should form one company in Kane's regiment he [Kane] came to me in the presence of Pierce saying that he intended to appoint me Major. Since then the Governor has decided that the company officers shall elect the regimental officers. I have every prospect of being elected especially as I am backed by Col. Kane himself---you can understand then that it should not be noised about here in advance.
Col. Kane is in Phila. at present but will return today when the regiment will be organized at once. In case all turns out well I shall in all probability report to you in person within a day or two. He (Kane) is a splendid man. The second in command or Lieut. Col. will be an officer who was a Major in the regular service during the Mexican War and acquitted himself with much honor. We shall certainly have the crack regiment of the service.
Tell Hannah the basket of provisions was a great treat to the men the cheese in particular being much praised. Of late we have been the recipients of numerous delicacies from Harrisburg people and others such as butter, onions, radishes, salad etc. The company is now full entirely and the last men will be sworn in today. Not one man has been in the hospital as yet[,] the only ailings being cold or head-aches often more imaginary than real.
Later J[ohn] Pierce is going home on furlough for a few days as he is unwell. I send this by him. The Regt will be organized tomorrow by order of Gen. [George] McCall. I will inform you at once.
Affectionately,
C. F. Taylor