of a trip without a Haversack of provision and canteen of water It being so handy and always ready I Eat oftener than I use to at home
     I was glad to get the particulars of how matters were getting along at home for these things interest me a great deal when I have time to think about them It is greatful to the senses to hear of a rich clovefield in a country where no seed was probably Ever sown and Equally so to hear of agriculture in a baren sterile downtroden place like this where a inhabitant you never see This part of the state I should take to be healthy but certainly not a good agricultural district if all was peace and quiet But having been the point at which two great armies met there is no vestage left to indicate that there Ever had been anything raised There are openings that were once farms but there are but few houses and no fences and no stock all having disappeared in consequence of the presence of an army From this scene it is pleasant to turn to busy scene in peaceful life and hear and think of such a home and surroundings as you are in possession of for I see but few that I would take in preference

6

Tell John & Fred I was glad to hear they were getting along so well and I hope they will have their crop in a good condition for Harvest mak arangements Every on you can to help harvest (This is private but you better not pay until the work is done) However about this you must use your judgement You speak of sending my watch to me I should be glad to have it but doant send it under any circumstances Except by a safe man who is coming to the Reg
     Doctor Hougland is in my tent tonight He is not well yet he goes about
     Continue to keep the children at their books I should be glad to find them all that are old Enough able to read when I get home
     I have not seen many of the boys in the 25 Reg for a day or two But I think all in whome you would feel any interest are well Daniel Hayford [i.e., Sgt. Daniel Hayford, Co. K, 25th Indiana Infantry] is in good health and seems to Enjoy the life of a soldier well I saw Ed Woods [i.e., Pvt. Edward D. Woods, Co. K, 25th Indiana Infantry] 2 or 3 days ago he was well Will Mason [i.e., Lt. William T. Mason, Co. E, 25th Indiana Infantry] and Zac Richardson [i.e., Pvt. Isaac M. Richardson, Co. H, 25th Indiana Infantry] were bothe well when I saw them last
     I am much obliged for the stamped Envelops I have a large amt of Envelops but Stamps are hard to get Give my respect to all friends and remember me to all the member of my family.

Your affectionate husband
George Thomas