Dec. 11, 1861. In the afternoon Winston went to town & brought a letter for Ben & me from Ma.

[Willie Bryant to Davis Bryant]     

                                                                                                Rebel Hall 

                                                                                                Tuesday Dec 11/61

Dear Bro.

                The very devil is to pay in Camp this a.m. in anticipation of an order for furloughs to be stopped; the squad with a fur "detailed" go to‑day however, it is my turn also, but not wishing to go for any special purpose, & having no money, I have allowed some one to go in my place, trusting to luck to be able to go when I wish to; There is no doubt that the furloughs will be stopped, & it is hard & unfortunate, & I trust may not last long.  I will not be able to write Mother this week so please state my fears of being unable to be with her Christmas.  I have written Father, but The Pilot Boat has not yet gone out. I send bag clothes, which I must trust to you to get back as soon as you can, with them please be sure & send me some gun-rags. I am much obliged for Yr attention to order by Dock.

                No prospect of pay yet.  I am again elated at the prospect of state pay as I learn Judge Baker has really rtd.; God grant it!

                I shall not write Maggin by this oppt’y, bur send much love.

                I return Hoyle with many thanks to all Concerned. The sight of the St. Marys was cheering & I hope she may be able to continue; shd. she come on Sunday I will write again. Let me know how you get along, & about affairs as they stand, generally.

                We have not seen a sail since I wrote you, or anything else interesting.  This sojering is profitable eh!  4 mo's ago yesterday, I entered the service & have rec'd $32 ‑ & a little something to eat, for it; our rations are now reduced to flour & meat alone; the Coffee will be missed, sure.

                Sail oh! The Pilot Boat is at last off & is going out beautifully; good luck to her!

                The Capt. has had a slight attack of our fevers & is very charitable now; I think I told you of his promise of a big Egg Nogg at Christmas if we drill well. If Denny can lend me his oil stone again, or will sell it “on time,” so I may have it this week I will be tickled. More anon – Yours,

                                                                                                Willie

Dec. 12, 1861. [No entry]

Dec. 13, 1861. [No entry]

Dec. 14, 1861. [No entry]