Letter from Dr. George B. Todd Dated October 13, 1862

Author: Dr. George Brainard Todd
Date: October 13, 1862
Location: Washington D.C.
Addressee: His wife, Elise M. Todd
Names Mentioned:
Letter Summary: Dr. Todd writes that he has left the Union Army, and has applied for position in the Union Navy.
Credit: Our Todd cousin, the late Robt. A. "Sandy" Goll shared this letter with us.

Below you'll see a transcription of the letter with a small graphic of the page that links to the full sized scanned image. Where the writing seems illegible, you'll see a line in the word or letter's place. If there's a little doubt about a word, phrase or letter you'll see it italicized.

Washington D. C. Oct 13^th 1862

My dear wife

I have no doubt you have heard before this that I have left the Army and wonder why I don’t come home. The reason is this I have made application for a position in the Navy, and am waiting for an examination which I expect tomorrow. I was expecting to start for home last Saturday, but I am glad I did not, as by staying I shall save the expense of returning for an examination. I have but little doubt I shall get the desired place and I know I shall like it so much better. I have been exposed to all sorts of weather long enough & if I am sea sick it wont last long. It is very cold and unpleasant here now, and you may be sure if I ever rejoiced it is that I have not to undergo the suffering in camp. I am now very well and I hope ___ this your health has become improved. My dear wife, I hope soon to see you again and if I am not ordered to sea soon you shall come and stay a while with me. I may be ordered (if I get the place) in charge of some marine barracks or I may be at once sent to sea. In either case it is far preferable to tramping in the mud and sleeping in the rain. How do you all do and where are you now. Write as soon as you get this to Box 37(1/2 or 12) as I may be here for some days yet. Give my love to all and believe me your affectionate husband

Geo B Todd

Asst. Surgeon 12 N. Y. V.