15.25x18" double-sided glass frame contains envelope and letter that have been professionally matted to 3x5.25" and 7.75x9.5". Hand-written and dated Feb. 11, 1862, letter has been sent from Camp California in Alexandria, VA. that was commanded by Colonel John R. Brooke. Letter asks reply be sent in care of Brooke as soldier Mahlon V. Smith was a member of Company A of the 53rd Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. Letter's date is just a month prior to the Peninsula Campaign that took place near Richmond, VA. Mar.-July, 1862. Letter is to a Sarah Smith, though if the writer and letter recipient are related is unknown to us. Letter writer apologizes for not writing sooner and mentions sharing a tent w/an acquaintance known to both. Letter goes on to detail camp life and mentions a fatal shooting accident and another that wounded several. Soldier notes that his unit might be going to Baltimore, MD. soon and mentions snow. One line in particular reads "I Wish The War Was Over So That I Could Return Home Again, I Am Tired Of War Life." Poignant letter on patriotic Eagle and George Washington letterhead has been folded as mailed, but remains totally clean and bright. As framed, both sides of letter are visible under glass for an Exc. display. Patriotic "Union" envelope features image of a weary Columbia resting on canons amidst muskets and American flags. Original stamp still affixed, envelope has been filled out by hand and shows wear from mailing. Fine. Great display, w/wonderful insight into the thoughts of a Civil War soldier.