Camp Stonewall Brigade August 18/63
My dear Annie,
I arrived in camp this Tuesday morning about half hour by five. I had a pretty long lonesome ride the evening I left you. I got to Timberville just at dark and received a very cordial welcome from uncle Billy. I found him reading his bible - as I approached him he looked up in my face and asked is it you and then there was a tremendous shaking of hands etc. He soon had supper set, we chatted till after ten o'clock. He really looks lonesome but, I suppose he is not. His front yard is a perfect wilderness of weeds grass and bushes, you cannot see the front door from the street. I left about eight o'clock and reached Harrisonburg about eleven and as I passed our church I heard Mr Fletchers voice. I would like to have been in time for preaching but my horse lost a shoe several miles from H. which detained me some time.
I took dinner with Mr. Aikin. I cannot slight Mr. and Mrs. Aikin - their friendship is so disinterested. I went over to "our house", everything seems to be doing very well. Only one tree has apples - Grape vine very full. I could not help feeling very sad while there the past in contrast with the present comes up so vividly. I sometimes feel very much like buying the property anyhow.
I went out to Mr. Vanleans in the evening, left next morning at half past seven and rode to within four miles of the Brigade till nine o'clock P.M.- nearly fifty miles. I rode into an old field tied my horse to the fence and laid down on the ground and just as I was going to sleep a toad hopped on my face, I was more scared than hurt. I got up at daylight and soon rode into Camp where I found all ready for breakfast and glad to see me - everybody in fine spirits - the army is recruiting finely. They are now granting furloughs, a few of course from each Regiment. I am confident you will hear a good report of this army ere long. The soldiers are devouring the roasting ears at the tune one dollar per dozen. Write soon and direct to Orange C.H. Va. love to Rob and his Ma.
From your Affectionate Husband
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