Elisha Clark 27^th Maine Keeping his enlistment a secret from Mother. 8” X 5 3/8”

Camp Coburn, Augusta (Maine)
Jan 6th, 1863

Dear Father,

It will be impossible for me to come home this week. Captain Libby done all he could to get me a furlough but there are so many from our company on furlough that the colonel refuses to let off any more until they come back. I may be able to come next week. Until then, keep my enlisting a secret especially from mother. Tell her anything you choose only keep my enlisting from her. Am enjoying myself finally. All I have to do is drill a squad twice every day about 2 hours at a time.
Write soon.

Your affectionately,

E Clark