Independence Defiance Co Ohio.

Aug 10th 1865.

           

Dear Brother,

                                    Your very kind letter of the 3^rd Ins't. was rec'd a few moments ago and I haste to reply. Gust rec'd one of same date, was glad to hear from you once more. I will look to your money next time we go to town. The folks are all enjoying good health here as far as I know. I have just returned from a ball at Defiance which took place last night. It was got up by our Capt for the benefit of his Company It was free for all the members of Old Co. G. Very few of the young ladys that used to fourish in the dance of our neighborhood were to be seen. They are all pious now and think it a sin to dance /

 

We have been at home two weeks last Sunday morning. most of the boys have been to work some. I have worked about three days in all. So you see I have not hurt myself much. We had a picnic down on the heel-path by the lock last Saturday. most of the young folks of your old acquaintenance were there. we had a gay time generaly. Soldiers have got to be quite an old story and our gay times will soon play out. Mr and Mrs Abell talk of going East soon I do not know as they are looking for you home to keep house while they are away. Yet I am sure they would like to have you started in business, if you was here. I suppose that is why they are so anxious to have you come home. / I will content myself at home till you return (although I get lonesome once in a while.) I would like to see you very much.

 

Perhaps we could get into some business. If not I will go way again, for Independence has nearly lost all its attractions I would just as leave go into the army another year as not provided there was a chance to inlist in the Volenteer Servise If I was able to own a well improved farm I would not mind staying at home, otherwise I would rather be away. Philip is building a new house. he is behind-hand in farming as usual. Phil could do a great eal better at some other business he will never make a farmer in all the days of his life. /

 

Crops along the river look promising We've had so much rain lately that farmers are away behind hand getting their harvesting done It rained hard last night to day the weather is fine. In refference to your case as you term it in your letter, I can give you but very little light on the subject. I am not posted in your affairs while you was at home, nor did I know that you contemplated matrimony. I have no particular fault to find, the one refered to. besides you are older than myself, and your own master. I should not blame you if you did think of matrimony. you are old enough and if you should get a good partner for life you would be blessed. But weigh the matter well before purchasing. I do not suppose that matters are far advanced and I will talk to you when you return home.

 

[margin]          Please write soon Hope this may find you enjoying good health

 

[top margin upside down] John Relue and family are well he is living here yet has not done much since returned from the army, he drinks some

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