Camp Hoole, Va
July 30th 1862
Miss S. E. Smith,
My Dear Sister:
I write you this morning to inform you how I am at this time. I am somewhat unwell and have been so since Saturday. We went out to Brigade drill on Saturday and there came up a tremendous rain and Gen Kershaw kept us out in all of it and the consequence of it as far as I am concerned, is that I am now not very well. I am troubled a good deal with headache and am a little sick at the stomach. I took two blue pills yesterday evening or rather last night which I hope will do me some good.
Capt. Alfred & Mr Asa Edens / are out here at this time. They came Monday and will remain here a day or two longer. I am writing this letter now with the intention of sending it by Mr Asa Edens.
Times are very dull here and do not bid fair to be any better. The weather is extremely warm, and will not be much cooler soon I guess.
I suppose you have seen Maj McLeod by this time as he left here for home several days ago.
If you have time to see him after you get this, tell him to get me a pair of shoes no 7 (seven) somewhere as I can't get any here for less than from 10 to 16 dollars.
Blubow's S.C. Regt (formerly Hutchin's) is near Richmond now. I saw John L. McRae this morning. He was here for a few / minutes. I have never had an opportunity of visiting the Regt yet but hope to do so soon.
Everything is quiet here at this time. I don't know what the "Yanks" are doing as I can hear but little from the papers or anywhere else Send me a few of the latest copies of the Charleston Mercury when Uncle Mac comes back if you get this in time.
I will close as I have nothing of interest to write. Write soon to
Your Afft Brother,
John W. Smith