Head Quarters 77^th Regt O.V.I.                     

1^st Brigade, 3^d Div. 16^th Army Corps,

                        Arkansas Expedition,            

Brownsville, Ark., Sept 3, 1863.

 

My very dear Wife:

                        I dropped you very brief letter from Duval's Bluffs, on the 31^st, announcing Dr Cooke's death and burial at that place, and that we were just starting on a march. I handed it on board the "Progress" as she pushed off.

 

            We marched seven miles that day and encamped on the edge of the great prairie. Next day we marched about twenty-five miles, arriving here, and encamping two miles west of the village. This is the county-seat of Prairie County, and is nearly as large as Williamstown, Va.

 

            Our Regiment stood the march first rate. My Co. and the one each side of it—K & B—did not lose a man on the march; and all the others which had men fall out, had them brought up in ambulances: so the entire force we started with got through.

 

            Yesterday another Division came here, having left the Bluffs the day before. Gen. Steele and Staff—including Capt M^cNaughton—started from there yesterday morning, and got here last evening,—but as they rode it was an easy march to them. We have marched over one hundred miles since we left Helena; and I have walked every step of it, except some eight or ten miles the day I was Division Officer of the Day—and that day I rode about forty, which was harder than a days marching on foot. /

 

            I am in excellent health, which seems remarkable to some who think I don't look as stout as others who are failing. Dr. Wall says I am all pluck, and he will tie to me hereafter. He didn't know me before.

 

            All your acquaintances, and the Marietta boys generally are able for their rations. Lt. West had a chill last evening.

 

            The mail is leaving so I must close.

 

            Many kisses for you all. I am looking for a letter or two from you to-day. The last was Aug 15. My love to you and the children and regards to friends.

                                                                       

As ever yours

A.W. M^cCormick

 

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