Sewell Mountain, General Cox’s Camp,
September 27 (Saturday or Friday, I am told), 1861.
Dear L —: — We are in the midst of a very cold rain-storm; not farther south than Lexington or Danville and on the top of a high hill or small mountain. Rain for fifteen hours; getting colder and colder, and still raining. In leaky tents, with wornout blankets, insufficient socks and shoes, many without overcoats. This is no joke. I am living with McCook in a good tent, as well provided as anybody in camp; better than either General Cox or Rosecrans.
I write this in General Cox’s tent. He sits on one cot reading, or trying to read, or pretending to read, Dickens’ new novel, “Great Expectations.” McCook and General Rosecrans are in the opposite tent over a smoke, trying to think they are warmed a little by the fire under it. Our enemy, far worse provided than we are, are no doubt shivering on the opposite hill now hidden by the driving rain and fog. We all suspect that our campaign in this direction is at an end. The roads will be miry, and we must fall back for our supplies. My regiment is fourteen miles back on a hill. When clear we can see their tents.
Just now my position is comparatively a pleasant one. I go with the generals on all reconnaissances, see all that is to be seen, and fare as well as anybody. We were out yesterday P. M. very near to the enemy’s works; were caught in the first of this storm and thoroughly soaked. I hardly expect to be dry again until the storm is over.
Good-bye, dearest.
Affectionately,
R.
Mrs. Hayes.
