Head Quarters 27^th Ind Vols

Cassville Ga            May 21^st 1864

 

My Dear Pa

                        Your letter dated the 10^th came to hand two or three days since but I have had no chance to answer until the present We were drawn up in line of battle at the place night before last and yesterday I expected we would have a hard battle but when morning came the rebels had gone They had a splendid position and could have given us a hard fight but they seemed to think that farther South it was more healthy This is a fine country and one where war has not been felt All the inhabitants were ordered out of town by Gen Johnson in anticipation of the fight they left everything and when our men entered it they made sad havock Bed clothing dresses fine furniture [?] mirrors were all alike destroyed /

 

I dont think we will have a fight until we get to Atlanta when I think we will have a hard battle but there Johnson has not the numbers to resist successfully our progress as we have too many men His position at Rasaca was very strong but it was in danger of being flanked. I saw Lt Martin Hoover a few days since he is on Col Esties Staff as ADC I also saw Jim Davis a few days since he belongs to the 128^th Ind We are stoping for a few days but I can not tell for what it is fifty two miles to Atlanta from here I am glad to know things look as well on the place as they do I think you will find ready sale for all you raise and at good prices There is a pretty good crop in this region of the state but every person has run of and left it so it will go to waste I received a letter from Ann a few days since She talks some of coming home and remaining until fall I also received letters from Frank / Cousins Lizzie & Annie We would have been paid before this had we not been on the move It is hard telling now when we will be paid but I hope it will not be long All the new Ind Regts are attached to the 23^d AC and are on our left I am very sorry to hear of the unfortunate death of Nelson Starking I hope Frank will have a good class and be satisfied to remain Give my love to Ma & the Family

 

                                                                        Affectionately Your Son

27^th Ind                                                                                    Will

            2^nd Brig 1^st Div

                        20^th AC

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