Letter signed Alex [Alexander Badger], Ft. Vancouver, W.T. [Washington Territory], to his mother [Mrs. Alexander C. Badger], October 4, 1861
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Identifier: D01802
Language of Materials
English
- Badger Family Papers | Letter signed Alex [Badger], Fort Vancouver, W.T., to Mother [Mrs. Alexander C. Badger]. So far, my journey to this distant part of our country has resulted in prosperity. My room is snug and comfortable, having bought out Mr. Wagner when he went away. You have heard, I suppose, of the order sending all the regular troops out of this country to New York. Volunteer soldiers are to take their places. Things look desperate in St. Louis, and the fortifications they are erecting around it would seem to indicate an apprehension on the part of the Federal commanders that it will be attacked. My opinion is that the longer the numskull [John C.] Fremont remains in command, the better it will be for the Southern Confederacy. I think he is incompetent and will disgrace himself yet. When you write send me news of Cousins George, Will, Louis, and Charlie, where they are, their regiment and company. Have you heard from John Campbell lately? Old Paducah, I see, is in a bad fix. Tell Alice I have met two girls, “Jane,” a farmer’s daughter, and Miss Marion Francis…very pretty. Two soldiers were killed at the post last Sunday. One blew out his brains purposely, and the other, returning from a hunt, accidentally. Col. B.L. Beall, in command of this District, has been ordered to appear before a board of army officers for examination, said board being convened for the purpose of retiring such officers as are incompetent. Col. Smith of the California Volunteers may take his place. Capt. Ogden, Q.M., U.S.A., may possibly come to Fort Vancouver. If I leave here, I shall go to San Francisco and winter on the coast., 1861 Oct 4
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