Memphis, Tenn. Sept. 26, 1863

 

Dear Mother:

                        Your letter of the 16^th was received day before yesterday, and I improve a few leisure moments to-day in answering it. When I last wrote to you I mentioned that we had marching orders. Since that time we have been in a delicious state of uncertainty with regard to the matter, it being reported that they were countermanded. But to-day we have printed orders, placing our whole army corps, the 16^th under marching orders. Everything is to be placed in readiness for a campaign. Baggage wagons are to be drawn, ammunition provided. Ordnance and provision trains organized. Everything indicates a general movement. For my part I am glad that at last we know definitely that / we are to leave. Not that I am anxious to go, but because we are now relieved from our suspense. Although it would be very pleasant to remain here, yet I am ready and willing to take my place in the field. The weather is delightful now. The war and sickly season is about over, and I like the incident and adventure of a life in the field. I never was in better health or spirits than now, and I must confess that although I regret leaving my privileges here, yet I look forward to our move with a considerable degree of pleasure. Our destination we can only conjecture. Several different places are named, many of them very wide apart. For my own part, I do not yet feel warranted in hazarding a conjecture. When we leave is uncertain. Other troops must first come here to fill our place. When they are here, we may know that our time to move is come. / There is a rumor however that we shall go the fore part of next week. Gen Hurlbut is in command of the Corps, which is the 16^th. Gen. Veatch will probably be our Division Commander. But you need make no difference in the direction of your letters for the present. Always direct your letters to the last place where you hear from me, and they will not fail to come to hand.

 

            I am sorry that you did not receive my picture. I sent it by mail, enclosed in an envelope. I thought it a pretty good one.

 

            I hope that ere this you have received my money, so that you may be enabled to get things for your comfort. I am glad to hear that Hiram is doing so well.

 

            Aside from our move, nothing noteworthy is transpiring.

                                   

Your Son

Geo. R. Gear.

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