Gallipolis, September 24, [1863].
Dear Uncle: — Lucy arrived here safely last night. We shall go up the Kanawha tomorrow.
I hope that Rosecrans will be able to hold Chattanooga after all. If he does, this struggle will be a most serious disaster to the Confederacy, even if they have gained the battle, as a mere military result.
I hope Birchie will not give you trouble. It gratifies me to hear that he can chop so well, and that he is learning the names of the trees.
Sincerely,
R. B. Hayes.
S. BIRCHARD.
