COLUMBUS, April 19, 1861.
DEAR UNCLE:—I came up last night to help Dr. James Webb get a place as surgeon, and for other purposes not war- like. The doctor left for the East as assistant surgeon of [the] Second Regiment with the soldiers this morning. I shall return home on [the] next train.
At the first, I put down my foot that I would not think of going into this first movement. This, of course, I shall stick to; but if this war is [to] go on, it is obvious that sooner or later thousands will be dragged into it who would now not contemplate doing so. Platt enjoys it hugely. So do all the old-style people who like a strong government. It took a great many delicate youngsters from our neighborhood; almost every other family on our street sent somebody—Wilson Woodrow, Wright, Schooley, of our near neighbors. I saw them in their tents last night—cold as Halifax, and compelled to get up at 2:30 this morning to go East. A sharp experience for tenderly reared boys.
Come down and see us. All well here.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
S. BIRCHARD.
