Mill Bayou, Ark.,                   

Sept 10, 1863, 7 A.M.

 

My dear Daughter

                        We have received marching orders, and leave for Little Rock in an hour. If the rebels fight us here, we will be in battle before noon, I presume.

 

            We have captured several rebels, most of whom say they will fight. We captured Gen. Dobbin's Adjutant, who got in too deep water in the river, and had to come out to us or be shot. We got many important official papers from him—from which we learn that they have not so large a force as we supposed. Gen. Price commands them. The captured Adjutant says Gen. Marmaduke and Gen. Walker fought a duel day before yesterday about who was to blame for the rebel depot at Helena. Walker was killed and Marmaduke wounded. Marmaduke is arrested for dueling, and the / rebels are much demoralized. I think they will not fight us at Little Rock, but if they do we will whip them.

 

            We found several hogsheads of sugar and bacon, and two chests of medicines, that the rebels secreted on their hasty retreat as we came up.

 

            We got plenty of green corn, some sweet potatoes and pumpkins, a little honey, a few chickens and more hogs and beef cattle when the Generals send out foraging expeditions. If the owners can prove their loyalty, they get paid for these things

 

            I have to "pack up", so I cannot write you much this morning.

 

            I wrote to ma yesterday. I have got no letter from her since the 15^th ult., and none from you yet.

 

            We are well. I hope to hear you are all well. Write me often. You can now write to Little Rock. If we do not get in, we are near the city. 

 

            Col. Mason did not rest well last night. He can walk about some, but his jaw,—which is broken in two places,—troubles him.

 

            My love to you all, and scores of kisses. Hug and kiss ma for me. I would like so well to see you all. If nothing happens I will write soon again.

 

            My regards to our friends.

                       

Affectionately

Your               

Pa.

 

To Miss Emma Alice M^cCormick.

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