Head Quarters

Camp of Instruction

near Richmond

June 4^th 1861

 

My dear Henry

                                    Since I last saw you I have gone through many changes and have put up here. How long I will be stationed here I cannot tell as I am subject to the orders of our glorious leader. The Enemies of my country seem to have the advantage of us now but the day is coming when we will meet them and proove that the spirit of Liberty still burns in our hearts and that each and every one of us are ready to lay down our lives in this cause. I feel it in my heart that right is on our side and that those of us who are left when / the war is ended will look upon our land freed from the grasp of theTyrant. The men in the Ranks here are not soldiers such as are seen in ordinary Wars. You will find a Father and all his sons and sons in law and Grandsons in one Company. This is illustrated in a Co which came into camp to-day. No stringent rules are required to regulate our Army. Most of them are the best Gentlemen in the land. With such men, animated by such motion, where is the power to subdue them. No we will drive back this miserable hord of blunderers as sure as there is a God in Heaven.

 

            When I left Baltimore / I borrowed One hundred Dollars of Hop Harris which please return. Also if you can spare the amt. send me check on Richmond $100—I am sorry to be obliged to call upon you but am cut off from all my resources and have been at heavey expense, because I did not choose to throw my self upon my state, when she has burdens enough to bear. My kind regards to M^rs W and C and all my other friends in Balt. If I live I hope to once more to visit Baltimore and find her freed from the grasp of the Tyrant

 

Yours ever

X X X

 

[verso]

 

            1861

A.R.H.Ranson

Richmond 4th June

            Recd 14  "

            Ansd

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