Chas. Frederick Taylor
Camp Pierpont, Va.
My dear Sister:
I am now on duty as Recorder of the Board of Examination, having been detailed by Genl. McCall. The Board consists of Brig.General Reynolds, Meade and [Edward] Ord and will probably sit for two or three weeks unless we should move. It is a very pleasant duty . We are in sessions from three to four hours daily always winding up the day's proceedings with dinner. The object is to examine into the competency of all commissioned officers from Lieutenants up to Colonels. My detail is intended as a compliment. It relieves me for the time from all camp and picket duty. We are living very comfortably- [Lieutenant Joel] Swayne and myself-in our log hut. We read much, play at chess and smoke. [Roger] Sherman still messes with us. We have several conveniences since you were here-a book shelf, better table, etc. We are not extravagant though we frequently have roast mutton and browned potatoes, cranberry sauce, rice soup and such luxuries. The cost of our mess for each one for the last month and a half, including the pay of the cook, was only fourteen dollars-not quite $2.50 per week. The only thing in which I am really extravagant is in going to Washington at least once in two weeks for the sake of taking a good bath. It does me more good than anything I know of. Col. Kane has left us--I think for good. He has sent in his resignation. McNeil's commission came today and he will assume command tomorrow..
With love, Chas. Frederick Taylor