Cairo, Oc^t 16^th 1862.

 

            Dear Companion:—

                                                I received your very affectionate letter yesterday, which has the effect to enliven me very much. It does me so much good to hear from you. A soldier thinks much of the dear ones at home, who watch and pray for his safety & return with so much fidelity and zeal.

 

            Since I wrote you my last letter, Cap^t Sample's Fannings Company went across to the Missouri Kentucky side of the river, and captured a part of a guerilla band and some wagons & horses, and returned last night all safe. Cap^t Sample's Company went over to Bird's Point a couple of days ago, but we have not heard how they are getting along yet; but Elijah was well when he left here, for that place. /

 

It is rumored that our company is going to Vicksburg, Tenn, before long, but I know not what amount of confidence can be placed in the rumor, for there is so many conflicting rumors afloat that it is difficult to hear the straight of anything. It is very seldom that a soldier ever knows one day where he will be the next day; so you see I cannot write you anything to be relied on on this point.

 

            Tell the boys to be good and kind to their mother and their sister, and be good and obedient children. Give them all my love. And now to yourself I would say, put your trust ever in the Lord,—tis He that can strengthen and uphold you in moments of affliction & temptation /

 

            Tell Edward Isaac if he thinks the colt would be better off with some oats while weaning to get it some

 

            Give my love to Isaac and all inquiring friends, and reserve a large portion to yourself.

 

                                                                        Your affectionate husband,

                                                                                    E. Hickman.

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