Dear Charley

     I have no very special news to give of myself as yet except of my probably future movements. WE are Encamped a mile or two east of the Capitol, are in Viele's [i.e., Brig. Gen. Egbert L. Viele's] brigade, Sherman's [i.e., Brig. Gen. Thomas W. Sherman's] division and expect to go South with him before long, perhaps in a week, more likely not for two or three. They say the expedition will number about 15000 men besides naval forces but this is probably mere surmise as likewise the report that our destination is New Orleans The Authories very properly Keeping

mum of on these points. Sherman reviewed us on Saturday and in answer to a remark of our lieut colonel [i.e., Lt. Col. William B. Barton, 48th New York Infantry] that we needed some weeks drilling yet said, "some weeks! hum, by that time it is liKely half of you will be shot." From which I infer that we are likely to have some pretty active service. The boys are working at their drill with good will and are making rapid progress and I think we shall give a good account of ourselves whenever the time comes. I am as busy as a beaver from morning to night, so dont fail to write to me even if I am remiss.
     Thus far I have Enjoyed soldier life to the finger tips. The constant living in the open air. the view

extending unobstructed to the horizon. the full glory of sunrise and sunset and the "cloud armies" I take as much pleasure in as at first. Even the rough fare and lodging has its charm and I have positively enjoyed the Early rising (fact, you unbeliever) Perhaps I should not have, had my bed been more luxurious.
     I have scarcely seen anything of Washington yet and have not Even visited the neighboring Camps but shall try to get a pass for a day before we leave.
     I think it is probable I shall bother you to execute some Commissions for me before we go off.
     I have not yet received your letter but presume it will arrive in

a day or two. I have written to have it forwarded.
I am to be officer of the guard tomorrow and must get a good nights sleep as I shall not have much tomorrow night. Our time is taken up in this way. Reveille & roll call at sunrise, drill from six to seven, officers drill from eight to nine to ten. Company drill from Eleven to twelve, and from two to three, battalion drill and parade and officers drill again filling up the time until near seven, so that after deducting time spent in miscellaneous business meals etc, we have not much left for study, letting writing etc leaving sightseeing out of the question.
Give my love to Mrs & Miss Leavitt

And believe me ever most sincerely yours

Robert S Edwards.

My address is
Co. E
48th Reg N.Y.S.V
Camp Sherman
Washington D.C.