Hammond, Horace J., fl. 1862-1865 to Eleanor Hammond

Is very healthy; hopes the same is true at home. Fayette and Joseph are healthy. John is still at the hospital, but they have heard from him. He does not have consumption (tuberculosis). "Joseph thought his breach was going to clear him from duty, [but] the doctor told him that he was fit for duty." Had seen the breach, and agreed with the doctor that it would not become a problem. Tells her that what he writes to her about cannot be repeated. Thought about asking for a discharge when his leg was at its worse, but did not receive one when the leg recovered. Does not want a furlough as long as she is healthy. It would be hard to come home only to leave again. On top of that, "it is only a little over six months more to stay, and we can stand it." Received two letters from her. It will get warmer soon. Went with Joseph two days ago to where the rest of the company was and was in a small skirmish with rebels. Has started to build another shanty for the rest of the winter. Wagons came with all of his things from the old camp. Soldiers are building a railroad. His officer says their regiment "won't have to move so much." Has been told he will get paid next week. Shanty is almost done. Fayette, Guernsey, and Joseph are all writing to their wives at the same time. Oliver Townes went home on a fifteen-day furlough to take care of his sick wife. He might lose some of his pay for it. Wants to see her "very much." "Would like to be there and do chores for you in the snow." Urges her to pray to the Lord daily and to keep up her good spirits. Went out to the woods this morning to pray. Prayed for God to absolve his sins and prayed for her.