Florence, S.C. May 12^th 1861.

 

Dear Mother:

                        As Ja^s. A. Peterkin is down here I send you a short letter by him to let you know how I am getting on. I am enjoying pretty good health at this time and getting along about as well as could be expected. The men in camp are generally well with the exception of colds &c. There are a few of our company sick but only one seriously viz Hugh M Lucas.

 

I sent you my dirty clothes by Uncle Mac and you will please have them washed and send them back by him. Send me some provision if you can. I want some corn bread. Send me Macombs Tactics & Burns' Poetical Works. As a fellow has to wash his face occasionally and as it is not very pleasant to wipe it on a greasy pocket handkerchief, I would be glad if you would send me a towel or two. I think I had an old soft hat when I left home if you can find it pack it up and send it to me. I received the things you sent last Thursday and found the mattress very useful. Rev. J.A.W. Thomas preached here today, this morning at 9 oclock & this evening at 3 oclock. I went to preaching this morning but didn't go this evening as I had a letter or two to write. Cousin Alex preached a very good sermon. But I never heard him preach any other kind. 

 

I don't know when I will get to go home, or whether I will get to go at all or not. We may be sent back to Charleston or to Virginia, or somewhere else. I can't tell where. I saw old Henry DeBerry & wife here one day last week but did not speak to them. I saw M^r DeBerry again today and spoke to him. He looks younger than he did ten years ago. As it after 10 oclock at night I must quit writing & go to sleep. Give my respects to all my friends and write soon. You folks at home have plenty of time you might write often. Don't forget to send me the things I have mentioned & especially send me some corn hoe cake and if you have any ham send me one, cooked of course. Ab Weatherly is well, and able to eat his allowance. Good night.

                                                                                   

Your affectionate son,

John W. Smith

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