Staunton spectator. [volume] (Staunton, Va.) 1849-1896, 1864-04-19
FOR THE SPECTATOR.

Ma. EDITOR AS any news from the army Il
read with interest, by those at home, will en-
deavor to note down some things that have come
Immediately under my notice.
am now writing almost in full view of the
Yankee camp-our brigade being on picket at
this time. This is net the most pleasant part OF
soldiers duty, yet it serves to break the mo-
notony of camp life. Our regiment is very COM
fortably quartered, enjoying the .luxuries to
which many Of our friends at home are stran gers,
such as sugar, coffee, molasses, &c., of which
we are drawing pretty abundantly.
We have preaching almost every night when
the weather will permit, by our chaplain, the
Rev. Mr.. See. There does not appear to be that
interest manifested on the subject of religion as
was last winter, but, on the whole, there Is a
pretty good attendance at divine service.
War is very disastrous in its effects it cor
rupts the morals, biunts the sansibilties, and de-
stroys the finer feelings of man, not only of the
soldier. but of the civilian. 1t has surprised me
very much to see the change that has taken place
In the minds OF many persons at home. Some OF
hem pledged their last dollar for the support
OF the soldiers families, who have since been the
leaders in extortion and speculation. Others
who appeared equally as jealous have refused
to sell their productions to soldiers for Confed-
crate money: and wien induced to sell, actually
charged half months wages tor single pair
of half soles fer his shoes.
If this does not constitute disloyalty l am at
a loss to know what does. The change has been
so gradual it would scarcely be noticed by those
who witnessed it every day, but muat confess
it struck me forcibiy. There is another class of
persons who have surprised me even more, viz
Those persons who seemed to be SO impatient to
get Virginia out of the Union, could not wait
until there could be a Convention called for the
purpose, wanted to be pitching into the Yankees,
felt themselves able to whip almost unlimit-
ed number. But since the war has been inaugu-
rated have become exceedingly patient, willing
ing to assist in any capacity, except as quarter
master, wagonmaster or in some other bullet
proof position, and then take care to avail them
selves of the first exemption bill, or employ q
substitute, and now when there is no other al
tentative, have the audacity to ask for detail.
/ think it is the duty of every able-bodied
man, especially those who are in possession of
property, to participate in our struggle for Lib
erty and Independence. We who have been
standing IA wall as it werel between the enemy
and their property, think it very unjust that
they should remain at home enjoying their ease,
while we are compelled to remain in service and
endure the hardships and privations of another
Summers campaign. That We are tired of the SER
Vice no one will deny, but We are not so tired
that we would be willing 10 give up the conflict,
provided every man comes up and does his duty. |
But there is another class would notice be-
fore closing, with whom there appear to have
no changes taken place. I mean the Ladies, |
noble hearted creatures, who seem to have no |
other end in view than the achievement of our
May their expectations be real |
lied and through their efforts may N any be |
brought into the service who have been Sinking |
duty, is the desire OF your humble servant.
COMPANY d, 9th Va. Infantry.