Decatur, Ala, May 28, 1864.

 

My Dear Sister:

                        In a letter to mother two or three days since I mentioned the receipt of [torn] letter. I hoped last evening to receive [torn] mother, but was disappointed.

 

            We have had stirring times here for the past day or two. Day before yesterday a Brigade of Cavalry crossed the river at this point. They made an imposing sight. An eye unaccustomed to troops, would probably have numbered them at 120,000; for they were about two hours in crossing the river, although they came in one steady stream. There is no species of troops so well calculated to deceive as to number as a cavalry force. I am somewhat accustomed to cavalry; but I should probably have numbered them at 5000, whereas there were only about 3000. Yesterday a heavy infantry force passed through here, a part of the 17^th Corps, under Gen. Frank P. Blair constituted the force. There / were between 20 and 30 Regiments, making a force with the cavalry of from 15,000 to 18,000 men. What their destination is from here we can only conjecture. They are however said to be on their way to Rome Georgia. My opinion however is that they are [torn]destined for the interior of Alabama;—[torn] Montgomery and Selma.

 

            [torn] has been taken of the presence of these troops to pay a visit to the rebels in this vicinity. A force of 700 or 800 was found within four or five miles of here, and were made to skedaddle with a loss of about 30 prisoners, 4 or 5 wagons loaded with provisions and ammunition, and several mules and horses. It being nearly night, no pursuit was given; but yesterday; two or three Regiments a battery of artillery and several hundred cavalry started on a thr two days scout and will undoubtedly clear this vicinity of rebel presence.

 

            The expedition of Blair stopped here to draw rations for a few hours and then passed on. They take 30 days rations with them. The passage of the infantry and wagon train occupied about 5 hours.

 

            I hope to hear from either you or mother every three or four days. I think that you may safely direct your letters here yet.

 

            I hear rumors that our Division has been in a severe battle.

 

            The weather is beginning to be quite warm.

 

My love to all,

Your aff. Brother                               

 

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