Many of Orsell’s letters at this point depict him enjoying his time with the army. He continued to write about camp life like what the soldiers did for fun, what they ate, and some of the hardships they faced. For Orsell, he sang in a quartet with other soldiers of the 44th New York Infantry Regiment when he was not working in the quartermaster’s office. Orsell was also a very appreciated member of the quarter office. In a statement from Orsell’s niece, she described her uncles work “His whole training and education had fitted him for a quartermaster’s duty and I have always understood he was a very useful and honored member of his department.” Orsell enjoying his job would explain why we seemed so positive in his letters, but that would all …show more content…
Such a change! No home! No friends! Barley anything to eat! And when I am to find my regiment is more than I can tell.” It is this moment where we see Orsell challenge his ideals. Now that his life is in danger and he many never see his sister Olivia or his family ever again has shaken him. In later letters especially the ones after lost battles Orsell seriously questions his motives. In the letter from September 18, 1862 Orsell told Olivia about a small battle, but does not say where. “We had a terrible and an awful battle here yesterday… The sight from where we were in line was terrifying.” This man was not a soldier, he was a businessman. He was terrified of his surrounding and he was not even called into battle. After the battle, Orsell continued by depicting the battleground post fighting. “As we passed the battleground of Middletown Heights many of the rebels lie dead along the road and hundreds were upon the mountain and in the valley unburied.” These sights deeply hurt Orsell, to see his country in ruins. “But oh! Dear Ollie it is awful to see this fine country the scene of such slaughter!” His begun to question his ideals and soon he will take part in his first battle, the Battle of