I was exceedingly glad to hear from you. I know very well that it is quite a task for you to write a letter. I remember how hard work it is for me to write when I am at home and my hand all stiffened up with work. I prize your letter more if possible from the fact that it does cost some labor. It seems as if you thought something of me else you would not take the trouble to write me. I want to trust in the Lord as you tell me to, but there is so much confusion and every thing else here that it is a hard place to enjoy that lively interest in religion that I would like to. We talk considerable of our Maker and Preserver. I am glad our Capt. likes to read the bible. I think he is a Universalist. He takes the Gospel Banner at least and that

is a pretty sure way of judging. Our Capt. has now gone to the hospital I hope he will not have a long time of it. When I consider that it will be so short a time before we shall all meet on the other side of the grave I think it strange that I am so anxious to get home but I do want to meet you all again in the flesh. Seems to me it would then be easier passing the dark river but I dont know. I hope I shall have Jesus to go with me and if I do it will be an easy way. With His arm to support me I never ought to fear. God will do with me as shall be for His own glory and I wish to submit without a murmer. I am glad to know that you pray for me. if it were not for that I dont think I should feel that cheerfulness and hope that I do. I long to see you to tell you of some of the scenes we have passed through for a part of them

I think would interest you though they might not be of a character you would desire. After each battle I feel for a few days pretty well played out, but my mind I think suffers more of the two than my body. even though I get very tired and feel almost exhausted.
     I hope Harrison Cole will sell his place even if Uncle Jepson cannot see parting with his. If I can get Harrison's I'll risk but that I can get Uncle Jepson's by the time I get the other in the shape I want it. If it appears as if the war was going to close this season I shall want some lumber got out for my use, this winter. but the war will take a more definite form by winter. I cannot realize that it is so late in the season. It seems strange that it is so. but time seems to pass with very great rapidity. I should soon be at home if I had to stay three years. instead of

that I am going to spend next fourth of July at home if my life is spared and it can be God's will. Less than eleven months, that is surely a short time. Wont we celebrate? Why seems to me it would be almost complete happiness to be with you and this war all closed up. I feel now just as if a man would see hardships enough here during such a campaign as this to last him several years so that he ought to try and enjoy life the most he could for a time. I must say just a word to Mother. Hoping that you will write me again soon. I remain as ever your very affectionate son

John.

Dear Mother, I cannot close with out speaking to you. If I was there I think probably I should kiss you but the distance between us prevents that. I keep fancying that I see your tired look for as much as you have worked out of doors you must be pretty much run down and tired out. Do take time to rest. Dont work so hard. I wish I could lighten your burdens and toils. It seems to me if I live to get home I will try to live more worthy of so good parents, but I dont know but that the good resolutions will vanish as soon as I get fairly with you again but I hope not I hope you will continue to write me. I tell you home letters are the things to make a soldier boy feel well if any thing can. With a great heap of love I will close this. hoping that it will find you well.

Your son John

I dont know as I have ever told you of the flies which are very plenty here. I counted fifteen on the hand I am writing with. should you judge that they would bother any?