Camp Hastings, March 25, 1865.
Dear Mother: — We have had a sudden and severe change of weather. For the first time this month the ground is white with snow, and the mountains look like midwinter. The wind blows our tents down once in a while, and makes a little trouble. In other respects the change does not trouble us much.
General Crook has been exchanged and given a command under Grant before Richmond. He was placed in command of his old Department a few days to show that Grant had not lost confidence in him. He came out to my camp, where the troops gave him a most enthusiastic reception. . . .
We are ready to move from here at any time. It is not known, I think, by anybody where [and] when we shall go. . . .
Affectionately, your son,
R.
Mrs. Sophia Hayes.
