At "Plains" Va—some 40

miles from Washington—about west.

           

My Dear Wife.

                                    This is Sat & we arrived here night before last & last night & yesterday afternoon we had a very sever snow storm which fell to the depth of about 3 inches depth. We are on or very near the Rail R that runs from Alexandria to Strasburgh—about 40 or 45 miles from Washington—so said Our men suffered very much for the want of tents. Our last marches have used me up & I must fall behind. I have asked for a leave of absence for 20 days, but it is very doubtful if it is granted. but if it should be I shall go to Washington & may come home. Yes, it is very likely I shall come home. We have not rec^d our commissions nor pay but are expecting / them every day. Some of our men are sick but cannot be sent to Hospital but are obliged to be draged along in the Ambulance with the Reg'.

 

If my leave is granted it may not be less than a week.

 

            Tis reported that we are to leave here this afternoon. The air is very cold & some snow left on the ground yet.

 

            I cannot write more now as I have so much other writing to do & my poor back feels like breaking. I rec^d your last letter of Oct on the day we got here.

                                                                       

Your own Cyrus

           

Nov 8^th 1862

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