Camp Union, Fayetteville, Virginia, December 18, 1861.
Dearest : — You will think I have nothing to do but to write to you. I can’t let a good chance slip without sending you word that “I am well and doing well and hope, etc.” Sergeant McKinley, an old soldier, or rather I ought to say an experienced soldier, offers so generously to go and see you that I must let him. Birch ought to hear him talk. He has many scars received in battle, and Birt would like to hear about them. He is trusty.
Love to all the boys and ever so much for yourself. I suspect I am getting more anxious about you than the people at home. You must keep up good heart. We shall be together pretty soon again. If we have another little boy, we will have enough for a file in four ranks — which Birtie knows, I suppose, is requisite for a march by the flank. “Companions in battle” they are called. If it is a daughter, why bless you darling, won’t we have a nice family? . . .
This is our fourteenth beautiful day and prospects of more, tell Joe. — Love to all.
Affectionately, dearest, your
R.
Mrs. Hayes.
