Camp Ewing,
November 8, 1861, Thursday A. M.
Dearest: — Mr. Fuller, our waggon-master, goes to Cincinnati today. We are [so] busy preparing to send expeditions against the enemy, sending off sick and baggage, that I have no time to write.
I send you a few things that I would not want lost. My Diary, up to date, for your eye alone, etc., etc. Drs. Joe and Jim are busy as bees also.
We shall go into winter quarters in a fortnight or so I think, when we shall have plenty of leisure.
I see the papers are full of foolish stories, sent by frightened people to terrify without rhyme or reason. Nobody is hurt by all this cannonading. One killed and three wounded covers the casualties of five days. Our provisions are plenty and we are in no peril here.
“Love to all the boys” and Grandma. Bushels — no, oceans for yourself.
Affectionately,
R.
P. S. — Jim laughs when he sees me and says I must send home my picture to show you that I tell the truth about health.
You need not buy any lieutenant-colonel’s shoulder-straps or send me anything more to this region.
Mrs. Hayes.
