Memphis, Tenn. Sept. 5, 1863.

 

Dear Mother:

                        Your letter of August 28^th came to hand yesterday, and although there is nothing of interest to write I will scratch off a few lines, so that you may know I am still alive and well. Day before yesterday I sent you a picture of myself. I think it is a pretty good one, and such is the judgement of my comrades also. If you should also think so, and if it is possible to obtain good copies from it, perhaps it would be well to have three or four taken, and I will notify you of the disposal I wish made of them. I leave the matter entirely to your own judgement however.

 

            I am sorry to learn that you have been compelled to make / so heavy drafts upon your little pittance of money in Mr. Ewart's hands. I do not want you to use any more of it. Whenever you need it money, I want you to take that deposited in my name, and retain your own as something to fall back upon in case of extreme emergency. By the way, how much have I in Mr. E's hands? I have a confused idea that it is some $80 or $90; but for the life of me I couldn't tell. One other question. Do Nelia's debts amount to very much? If they are not over $10 or $15 perhaps you had better draw some of my money and pay them, as I do not wish to have any suspicion of dishonest evasion of debt resting upon my brother's wife.

 

            I am gratified to hear that friends have not all forgotten / me. I thought that outside the limited circle of my intimate friends, every one would have ceased to miss me ere this. As for furlough, no one need expect to see me home under one year yet, at which time the Reg't will be discharged. Those who have already been absent two years, have the first right to go and until they have all gone, I would not go, had I the opportunity.

 

Although it would gratify me exceedingly to be able to spend a few days with you and other friends at home, yet, since it is impossible, I feel not the least spirit of discontent.

 

            I generally receive the Examiners. The things sent by Jos. Lapham came to hand, as I thought I had already acknowledged. The herring was very good.

 

            I do not think it worth while to send any box; at least, / not until I need my overcoat, which will not be for some 6 or 8 weeks yet.

 

            Enclosed I return you $1. thinking that you will probably need it more than I.

                                               

Write soon to

 Your Son,

SOURCES