CAMP CHASE, June 20, 1861.
DEAREST L—:—Your letter filled me with joy—as your letters will always do. I write to say that my present purpose is to go to Fremont Saturday, to remain over Sunday, and Monday, to go down home and stay one or two days only. You will find it so pleasant up here that I do not go down except for business. Make little mem.’s of all things you want me to attend to. Recollect about any thin duds I have, especially coats. I am now well provided with most things.
Yes, the loss of our colonel did trouble us. Matthews does not yet wish the responsibility of command. With a few weeks’ experience I would prefer his appointment; in fact, I would anyhow, but we are casting about and the governor will consult our wishes. Our present preference is either Colonel [Eliakim Parker] Scammon or Colonel George W. McCook, the latter if he would take it. It will probably be satisfactory. If the new man is competent, he will be a very mean man if he does not get on well with us.
Affectionately,
R.
MRS. HAYES.
