November 2, 1862
“Expecting Orders…”
Monroe D. Halladay, 9th Michigan Infantry
Written from a boat docked at West Point, Kentucky, this letter captures a moment of uncertainty
as Halladay and his regiment await movement orders. He prepares to send money home through a
comrade, Mr. Simpson, who is leaving that night. The letter reflects the constant motion and
unpredictability of Civil War service.
as Halladay and his regiment await movement orders. He prepares to send money home through a
comrade, Mr. Simpson, who is leaving that night. The letter reflects the constant motion and
unpredictability of Civil War service.
Exact Transcription
Nov 2nd 1862
West Point Ky
Mr. Dear Brother,
We are on a boat at the dock expecting orders for the call.
By will be here I suspect.
Mr. Simpson is a-going to go tonight.
I would write you some news only I don’t see him.
I think I shall direct some money in to him.
He is sick.
I told him it is easier than you think.
He could not go to see you.
I am sure I was if I was to go as a suborn.
I am done from him.
He is to go.
I think I shall tell him he can tell you more of our trip than I.
Readable Modern Version
November 2, 1862
West Point, Kentucky
Dear Brother,
We are on a boat at the dock waiting for orders, which I expect will come soon.
Mr. Simpson is going tonight. I would write more news, but I do not see him now.
I think I will send some money with him. He is sick, and I told him it is easier
than he thinks. He could not go to see you. I would have gone myself if I could
have gone as a substitute. I am done with him now. He is going, and he can tell
you more of our trip than I can.
Provenance
Produced from Civil War Miscellaneous Collection, Monroe D. Halladay — 9th Michigan Infantry,
1861–62. Carlisle Barracks, Pennsylvania.
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