From The Regimental Flag: A Wife Wanted (by “Corporal”)

part of a series from the regimental newspaper of the 2nd Delaware Infantry

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From The Regimental Flag (Vol. 6), February 20, 1862, pg. 2
A WIFE WANTED

It has occurred to me that if I never marry I will become an old bachelor, unless I die in a few years. Therefore I have determined to marry, provided I can find some agreeable young woman who also wants to marry, and as I am now engaged in the service of Uncle Sam, and not at liberty to “go courting,” I have concluded my best plan would be to advertise in the Flag.

I suppose it will be necessary to give a short description of myself, therefore to commence. I am five feet seven inches high, or seven feet five inches, in height, it does not matter much which, my hair is neither black, or brown, and my eyes are neither blue or green. I am well enough educated to make my way through the world, having once seen a college in the distance, and having spent half an hour in a grammar school.

As to wealth, I am now in the enjoyment of the extensive salary of thirteen dollars per month, with board and clothing, and am finishing my education here, when I graduate and receive my diploma, I wish to unite my fortunes in the indissoluble bonds of matrimony, to some kind, loving, and agreeable young lady who can appreciate my efforts to make her happy.

I ask not for beauty, as that passes away like a summer breeze. I ask not for wealth, as that takes to itself wings and flies away, but yet a homely woman I will not marry, and none need apply unless she has money enough to furnish the house.

Any young lady possessing the above qualifications, who wishes to render certain her prospects of happiness in this life, I will be most happy to correspond with, If she will send her name and address to the office of the Flag.

Camp Wilkes, Feb 11th. CORPORAL