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[Different handwriting at top]
No. 222
Mailed
Port Royal S.C.
Mch 1/64
Recd Mch 9

[Letter]
In the Trenches Again
Jacksonville, Florida, Feby. 27 1864

Dear Father
We are back again to this place from whence we started two or three weeks ago. Have
had a hard campaign. Pushed 30 or 40 miles into the interior, [and] had several
skirmishes, one fight when we the enemy made a strong stand in force too large for us to
contend with. We fought them two hours when we retired in good order. Ammunition
getting scarce as well as provisions.

I have had an opportunity to try my success in command of a company of men in action.
[We] got along very well, considering that there was but one officer when there should be
three. When we came out of the fight [I] had felt so much care and responsibility that
when the order came to fall back I was perfectly exhausted, faint, and entirely worn out.
Here is an instance where a drop of whisky from the flask of the Surgeon builds one up. I
think I should have given out if it had not been for this.

I can not say how long we shall remain here-but we are here now, living on the ground,
no shelter and not much to eat, but we are tough-can stand it.

(Love to all) Your Affc Son
C.M. Duren Lieut. [Lieutenant]-54th M. Vol.

Friday P.M.
Have just been made very happy by reception of letters from you. No 236 Feby 2, 237
Feby 5, 238 10inst & Feby 11, No 237, Feby 5-Came in package by Capt. Hutchins.
This package was very acceptable, for I needed towels much. Glad to get slippers too, for
my feet are pretty sore.


Transcribed by Nicole J. Milano, University of Florida, 2008.