Houghton Civil War Letters

Andover March 23 1863

Mr Warren

Dear Friend I received yours to day with fifteen dollars. I can settle all bills with it. I think allso it would be best to buy some boots or shoes now. My examination came off finely. I did not a fail on a question put to me I am full of business now clearing up my room &c.

I feel pretty and in good spirrits a great deal better spirrits than if I had got to stay here all vacation.

What do you think of the war I think our Generals have done about as little as possible, but dry weather will do something towards peace or something esle and I wish I could

be there to have a share in the glorious battles. How grand and noble a fellow is a you patriot who is fighting for his Country.

But as it is not cold enough to have a fire and cold enough to stiffen one's fingers a little too much for writting I must close. Please give my respects to Mrs. Warren. Yours Truly Eugene C Houghton

Andover May 7 1863

Mr Warren Dear friend I received yours of 7th this evening and with it $4.00.

The bad news we have received this evening has forced uppon me the conviction that it is my duty to try to enlist again in the 20th Cavalry not in hopes of any pay but as a vonlunteer in the true sense of the word for nine or twelve monts. It cannot cost me so much as it does here and how could I spend my money more nobly. Perhaps if I went on these terms they might take me as a bugler. I am sure I could learn to sound the orders in a short time.

Please say yes Mr Warren. I do not ask this from any sudden excitement for I have thought all a long if Hooker was defeated on the Rappannock I should try and enlist. I can study some out there certainly say Algebra or Geomtry or some such work. Please write soon and let me know so that I can go right down and see if Col Lowell will take me on the conditions I have mentioned.

Remember me to Mrs Warren and to your family. Yours Truly E. C. Houghton

Ps I am writing to Mr Hayward asking him to release me from my engagement in case you gave your consent. Would it not be propper to pay him somthing if he does release

me. If you give your consent and they take as bugler I shall need a bugle. Can I call on S.H. Gregory & Co for the money.

Yours sincerely Eugene