Sunday eve

What a beautiful night, Louise and I have been setting by the window, she seemed quite amused with the moon; and I could in imagination see you coming up the railroad, and coming in the gate, oh how I wish it might be reality.

I’m so lonely tonight, Mother has gone to church. Bryar’s folks have gone away. Baby is asleep, and I am alone, and yet not so much alone as I might be, for I suppose I have a dear husband yet living; and I have the privilege of chatting with him through the medium of pen, ink, and paper, although the pleasure of seeing him is denied me. It seems too bad, when I have

Oct. 12th '62 Camp near Harpers Ferry

Dear, dear Wife,

I commence my Sunday letter under peculiar circumstances. About an hour ago we had orders to pack our things and be ready to march at an hour’s notice. We have heard heavy firing in the direction of Leesburg this morning and that may have something to do with the order but soldiers are never allowed to know anything but to obey orders. We are now ready to move but the order has not come and the Capt. says if it was not Sunday he would bet 5.00 dollars we would not move in a week, but I think differently. We must move soon if we do anything this year and

Oct. 10th Camp near Harpers Ferry

Dear wife,

I did not intend to write you another letter this week but your anxiety to know if I had received all your letters induced me to make the effort. I think that I have received all your letters up to the 4th instance and answered the same replying to all your questions, there was some time that I did not get any but they have all come to hand.

Mr. Paddock got your [letter] and promised all you asked and more, the rest assenting. If you look out so sharp for me all the time I guess I shall be provided for. I have just had a good meal of beef steak,

Camp Near Harpers Ferry[, Oct 8, 1862]

My dear wife,

My heart was gladdened by receiving two letters from you. I believe the questions asked in them have been answered in [the] letter that you have by this time except about the fence. As to that, you have done right. I would sooner lay out 25.00 dollars than have Katie get unruly or have her tied head to foot. I have written you that you had better sell the potatoes that were raised on the hill at any price you could get. As to the others you must act on your own judgment.

I received a letter from Mr. Thayer last night. I am thankful to him for his remembrance