Near Marietta.                                                                                   

July 2^ond 1864.

 

            Dear sister

                        I will make another attempt to write you a few lines. perhaps before it is finished I may have to seize my gun and engage in battle. but I hardly think that for we have been laying here since last thursday week and have done nothing but skirmishing. the Rebs have a strong position here, and I think that it is the intention of sherman to move around on the flank and force them to evacuate without attacting in the front. There is what we call Grapevine (that is not very reliable) news came in this morn that a Reb Colonel deserted and came in to our lines and he offered to bet most any amount that there would not be a gun fired after the third of july. I hope this may be so but I cant see it. the 35^th is laying about a half mile from us and they are paying us a visit just as they can slip away they expect to start home in a month they say that this month looks as long as three did when they first came out. there is nothing of importance transpired this week the boys have got somewhat rested and are / in good health and fine spirits. my health is good. I hate to send home for clothing when it can be got here, but the sun is so hot and most of the boys have sent for hats. so I came to the conclusion that I would send for one. I dont want a fine stylish one, but a black one that will stand the knocks and answer every purpose. the size I wear is 7 1/8. when you get it take it to the office and get it stamped some of the boys folks put the stamps on and they generaly cost twice as much as where they take it to the office. we are not compelled to wear caps now but anything for comfort that will not change the collor of our dress. I have nothing more to write at the present, and close by wishing you all well.

 

Good by,

From your Brother

W H Bone. to E J Bone.

 

P.S. Give my love to Mother and Alvin and all other enquiring relatives and friends.

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