A transcription of the letter is below.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transcription by Nadia Shahab Diaz, class of 2017

Andover May 7, 1863

Mr. Warren,

Dear friend, I
received yours of 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
volunteer 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. [[end page]]

[[start page]] 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
Geometry 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

P.S. I am writing to Mr. Hayward asking him
to release me from my engagement
in case you gave me your assent consent,
would it not be propper to pay
him something 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 for the money.

Yours sincerely,
Eugene
Oliver Wendell Holmes Library || Phillips Academy