Decatur, Ala., Apr. 29, 1864

In our own Hospital.  

 

Dear Mother:

                        Here I am at last "at home" again. I came down from Athens last evening on the train. Although I am as yet very weak I stood the railroad ride very well. In fact I enjoyed the trip. As the passenger car was full I rode upon a platform car upon the top of a pile of lumber. It was better than the passenger car, for I could lie down. The cool fresh air and the beautiful mantle of green in which everything was clothed, so refreshing to an eye that had scarcely looked upon Nature for over two weeks, were very pleasant. But after we got off the cars there came a ride not quite so pleasant. There was a swamp some 2½ miles in length / to be crossed in an ambulance. The road is made of rails and poles laid down. You can imagine what a jolting I received. I am pretty sore this morning, but otherwise I feel no ill effects.

 

            The other day at Athens I was longing for some peaches, or canned fruit of some kind; when lo behold who should come in but our old Captain—Hurd—bringing with him a can of peaches and one of pears. He had learned in some way that I and another Co. B boy were in Hospital there, and he came around to see us bringing the present I have spoken of. He talked very pleasantly to us. I appreciated his kindness, and notwithstanding the former troubles in our Company, must say that he treated me very generously.

 

            I expected to be sent to a / General Hospital, either at Nashville or Pulaski, as all the sick from Athens were being sent there, making ready for a march; but our Doctor came up and brought us here. A general movement is to be made here soon—probably towards Georgia. I do not think that I shall recover my strength in time to go with the Regiment. There are orders here even now to pack up everything ready to go. If the Regiment leaves soon I shall probably be sent to Pulaski.

 

            I am improving a little every day; am getting so that I can walk around a little.

 

            I am anxious to hear from home; have had no letter since my sickness; have written home every three or four days.

 

            Direct your letters to the Regiment, at this place. /

 

Write as often as you can

                       

Your aff. son,

George.

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