I send you a sprig of holly it is not as pretty as the old country holly but it will serve to put you in mind of it. there is plenty of it in the mountains in the western part of this state I saw some it last winter bright and green among the snow we are getting ready to march again expect to start in an hour or two I am a little surprised to hear of John going into the photography business. I hope he will find it pleasant and profitable. I wish he would send one of his artists with a camera out this way. he could pick up as many interesting pictures in following this division as he could anywhere. I am delighted to hear of the rapid growth and robust health of that blessed baby I hope it may continue 

 

the weather is fine. my health is very good. the health of the Division is excellent. I received the post stamps and thank you for them

           

In Kind regards to all my friends

                       

Yours as ever

in haste James Clarke

 

Marshall M. Huey Esq

43 Catharine S^t N.Y. City

 

Address JC

Gen^l Shields Division

via Washington D.C   Virginia

 

[upside down]

 

I have carried this from Fredericksburg as I did not have a chance to send it we are again in the Shenandoah Valley west of the Blue Ridge and marching south

 

I am well                                                        

James Clarke

Alma   Page Co  Va                           

June 7^th 1862

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