To Mrs. Lyon.
Fort Henry, Tenn., Oct. 8, 1862.—I am just ready to commence my series of semi-weekly letters. I had a long trip, or, rather, took a long time to get here. I stayed in Chicago Thursday night, Friday night slept on the cars, getting to Cairo early Saturday morning. Saturday afternoon went to Mound City, returning to Cairo Sunday morning. Bought a horse for $150. Monday afternoon went to Paducah. Tuesday afternoon started up the Tennessee on a 7 by 9 steamboat, getting here early Wednesday morning. I met with a most cordial reception from everybody. I assumed command and held a dress parade last evening. There are but six companies of the regiment here. Two are at Donelson, one at Hickman, and one at Smithland.
We have a pleasant situation, and the Quartermaster pitched in yesterday and made me very comfortable. I have a large tent, with a good table, bedstead (all rough, of course) and many other little conveniences. I board at present with the Quartermaster and one of the Captains, and live well. I am constantly getting better. My cough and cold have entirely disappeared.
I am trying to get a good negro and wife and go to housekeeping. Would you like to call on us? It looks as if we might remain here for some time. There is no settlement here, nothing but troops, and not many of them. The main trouble is that the river is so low. But few boats come here from the outside world more than once or twice a week. This will account for any delay in the receipt of letters from me.
Write me all you know about the part the 8th took in the late fight at Corinth, also the 16th. I am very anxious to hear about it. I hope the 8th was not in, but suppose it was. The 16th must have been engaged. There is another battle I have lost by reason of my promotion.
After the river rises, so that boats run more freely on it, if it still looks like remaining here some time, I think you must try to come and see me, but I do not dare to have you bring the children. The river will probably rise in November.
