Bedford inquirer. [volume] (Bedford, Pa.) 1857-1884, 1861-12-20
CAMP PTRRpoNT, Va,
49, q Ice1


DEAR lHQUIRER Since writing my last,
the ''ReserVe' has been actively preparing
comfortable quarters, aud the many different
structures, show any amount of discrepancy
upon part Of the soldiers, as to what ii most
comfortable, with the least amount of labor
In consequence, the encampments assume great
irregularlty, as few neighbors adopt the same
Style.
Log hu:s, are frequently constructed with
ground coverings, but where the lumber is
scarce they not unfrequently dig cellars upou
which they set their tents, some by tho addi.
ton Of few rounds of logs npon an excaya-
tion of about two feet of earth, in the one end
Of which, they have constructed rude fire places
by digging into the bank and upon which a
headless barre! IS placed for a chimney.
Tbs to my mind, is not only the most feas-
IDLE tent, hut is By far the most healthy, as
ample means exist for ventilation A contin-
ued log fire drives off dampness. TIE conical
shaped Golfers cabin, so much in vogue
Throughout. Bedford Co.. is not unfrequently
rosorted 10; as the fencing and small pine of
which there is an amount through this County,
afford great facilities, but they are generally
condemned by tho physicians, as quite un-
healthy haoitations, the thick ground coverings
retaining much dampness besides they ere de-
prived of ventilation.
Sod houses are in some instances erected.
these and many other curious structures testi,
fy the ingenuity of our EsNorthern Vardals,''
upon the Potomac, and as the government re-
fuses to build winter quarters they being equal
to the emergency, necessarily save the govern
ment vast amount of treasure, that would
4 thar h ,l,lf Il IN
"Reserve" has become distinguished through
the numerous foraging expeditions, lately fitted
out, having been quite successful. Every few
days party passes beyond the line, and cap
lures everything which is convertible to the
use of the army.
Yesterday one returned having captured So
loads Of wheat, corn, oats and hay, Ii horses,
/ YOKE OF oxen, buggies, choice harness.. and
large .amouut of other property, all of which
belonged tG Mr. Gunther, Loted ,ecesb !"
who has for some time been extensively ongag-
cd circulating confederate ''shin plasters.' -
Two "eontrabands'' 10 the shape of human
beings, hale aud hearty, were also captured
and brought to camp by the 11th Pa. Regt.
They were greatly rejoiced at their liberation,
from chattledom, and expressed their intense
qualification wiih broad laughs, aud excIama-
tions, of 30 I'se free nigger," etc. Great
enthusiasm prevails ia camp over the course OF
Simon Cameron, in regard to the disposition of
slaves. Such spontaneous change is really
remarkable. Ali are anxious to see brought into
the 6eld all available means, for crushing out
this rebellion. Let slavery die il the almost
unanimous voice Of the army. Remember one
thug, that wherever the reserve goes, they,
like The "kansas brigade" will leave not
vestige Of the ''sum Of all villaiuies," in their
pathway; bpt will establish the libartles of the
slave even should the livss az traitors, stand
in tho way of attaining that obieet. The
weather has been delightful during the past
week, but have already extended my COM
muuieatiop far beyond my intention, so close.
Yours, sc.
FRANK.