In camp near Hagerstown, Md

July 26, 1863.

           

Dear Addie

                                    After two day's delay in sending the enclosed letter I again will add a few lines by way of postscript. To-day a party of us started out to see the Potomac at Williamsport—a distance about 4 miles. We walk hard or did not according as the person is inclined with curiosity seeking or not. The road to there is lined with the remains of dead mules and horses, and the whole country from here to there must have been one vast camp, as is evidenced by the still standing tent poles. The debris of a camp consisting of old clothes, tents, accountrements of all kinds and even guns are scattered in all directions. In the river is the swamped remains of weapons. Williamsport is a poor miserable / town, much hurt no doubt by the war, but still the decay of the place must date further back. The rebels have torn up the canal here and partly destroyed a fine viaduct over the mouth of a creek emptying into the Potomac.

 

            On returning home this evening the evidence of going home had increased. The mustering out roll had been begun and we are now assured that we will be home by saturday of this week. Every one is rejoiced at this.

 

            I have just heard from home, and find them all in good spirits notwithstanding the draft.

                                                                       

Yours

B S Owen

 

We will leave here on Wednesday

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