I am at last back out of the sound of cannon and musketry, but the continual rattle of heavy carts on the pavements is about as annoying. I came here the 1st as you see by my diary. We live first rate here. It seems but little like the living we had at City Point. I have not recd any mail since I came here. I hope when I get able to go up to Washington that I can get my pay for I haven't had any money for a long while and I hardly dare to have any sent. I have been pretty sick for two or three days but am feeling better today so I trust that I will soon be all right again. I should like to get transferred to Maine but suppose there is no sight for it. I spoke to the Dr. last night but he said he was not allowed

to do any thing about it. I believe he lied fully but it would not have sounded well to have told him so. They might either give me a furlough or transfer me if they would. In my diary I perceive I omitted to mention the salute in honor of Sheridan's victory. If Delinda copies it I would like for her to mention it as I wrote home when it was and I have forgotten now. Perhaps you had as good direct to me here when you write next. Dont put on any Regt. Co. or any thing of that sort. Simply my name St Paul's Church Hospital, Alexandr[ia] Va. I dont feel very animated so I think I wont try to write a very long letter I would like a few postage stamps.
     My love to all the family.

Your aff son
John