Indiana State sentinel. (Indianapolis, Ind.) 1861-1865, 1861-05-29
Correspondence Daily State Sentinel
Letter from Camp wallace.
CAHr WALLACE, Evansville, Ind. !
Nav Is, 1861.

"
Nay 23 1861.
DEAR SENTINEL: The fine weather for the past
few days, has caused an epidemic to break out
among our soldiers. Although it is quite preya-
lent in camp, and spreading rapidly, yet it is by
no means dangerous, and in no instance yet has
proved fatal 1t seems to battle the skill of our
physicians, who universally recommend allopathie
treatment, but the patient seems to be favorable
to homeopathy. 1t is known to most of your
readers as laziness," and is technically call d
"Spring ferer." 1t first manifests itself with
symptoms of drowsiness. aid the patient has
strong inclination for shady tree in some re-
mote part of camp about time for battalion drill.
The truth is, we are "spilin' for muss," and
are all growing impatient for fight. Yesterday
we were aroused from our lethargy by the news
that the steamer Dunbar" intended passing cur
camp and bid defiance to Us. The captain said
he would not stop his boat, ana "would rather
die than hoist the American flag" All eyes
were turned toward her as she left the landing,
and neared the camp. When within few hum
dred Yards of u, two blank cartridges were fired
across her bow, from the cannon and the third
ball cartridge-held in readiness The sight of
this, with a company of men some hundred yards
below with loaded muskets, caused the captains
heart to fail, and his firm resolution to vanish
He rounded to, showed out a plank, and was
boarded by the officer of the day, Captain
Foster) and 80 men, her manifesto examined and
compared with her cargo, and the Captain per-
mitted to proceed on his trip much wiser man.
The rifed cannon mentioned in former letter,
As being manufactured in Evansville, did not
stand the test, but blew her breech off, 1t is said
TO have been caused by carelessness and inexperi-
ence in loading her. The other one still shoots
admirably. was pleased to read your compli-
mentary notice of Col. McGinnis upon his being
presented with his horse and equipage by the
citizens of Indianapolis, and / do not believe
there is heart in the regiment that does not ro-
spond amen to every word it contained 1t is sur
prisng at the rapdty with which no has gained
the affections of the soldiers. Ofthe crowds who
flock around to look at the noble animal, all
unite in saying il could be bestowed on no one
more worthy. -'..
Yesterday evening and this morning, we were
exercised in target shooting. The distance was
300 yards. The company making the best shots
were to have the appointment ofa sergeant to
carry the regimental flag. 1t has not been de-
cided vet, as there is some contention and mis-
understanding as to whether it meant the most
good shots. or the best shot.
Our camp is still full of rumors about the Eek
cursion train" from indianapolis. We all
anxious to see our indianapolis friends, and do
hope you will delay no longer than you can pos
sibly help. Quite number of boxes, packages,
&C., containing cakes, pies and other little mic
hacks" have been received this week from kind
friends in Indianapolis, which / assure you will
ever be remembered by u.s.
Yours in haste,
HIGH PRIVATE.