Harrisonburg, Virginia, October 4, 1864.
Dear Mother: — I celebrate my forty-second birthday by writing a few letters.
We have had a few gloomy days — wet, windy, and cold — but this morning it cleared off bright and warm. The camps look prettier than usual. Many flags are floating gaily and every one seems hopeful and happy. There is a universal desire to return towards the Potomac. We shall probably soon be gratified, as we have pretty nearly finished work in this quarter.
I am in excellent health. This life probably wears men out a little sooner than ordinary occupations, even if they escape the dangers from battle and the like, but I am certain that we are quite as healthy as people who live in houses. — My love to all.
Affectionately, your son,
R.
Mrs. Sophia Hayes.
