Eight Miles SSW of Atlanta, Ga

August 6, 1864

My own dear wife

I am rejoiced to inform you that I have just received your last letter dated 24th. No words can describe my feelings. I had almost concluded that I would ever be denied the sweet pleasure of hearing from the object of my whole hearts devotion.

You wrote as if though you did not expect me to receive the letter and as if it was the last for a long while. I trust in God that such may not be the case. I know that there is great -danger of your home in possession of the Enemy. But my Dear Laura it is my wish for you to keep out of their way if possible. No mercy will be shown to citizens in that part of the country and especially by Soldiers who have had to fight so hard to get possession of such a country.

But if they should come so soon they no doubt will find you in a condition. So as not being able to move, I would give all I possess to be with you. I know I could manage some way to have you moved. I can't bear the idea for a moment for you to remain in their lines. I have sent another application for-thirty day leave which if granted, I will see you in ten days from the date of-this letter.

Iwent to Col Miller and told him planely why I wanted to get off, he then made out the application and said he would take it to Gen Hood in Person. I will hear from it tomorrow and if approved I will immediately take the Cars for Okolona but I will have to walk about twenty miles across from West Point to Opilacce. I will leave my horse in care of some on in the Company who will take good care of him as myself, there are several dismounted men in the Company. Any of them will be glad to ride him until I return. I will also bring Westely with me as he is so very anxious to see his beloved wife.

Iwrote to you three days ago and sent the letter by hand, A gentleman by the name of Johnson was going direct to Okolona. I took his Okolona package and placed my letter in it. So I know you will get it. I also wrote one by Gave who said he probably would go by-home. I was indeed sorry to gee him go back and leave me behind. I did not have time to make application for a transfer to Roddys Command, only remained here two days. I spent most of the two days with Gave. He promised that he would see you and tell all about me or either write to you.

We are not having a bad time comparative to what we have had. All we have to do is count all men absent from their commands, absent without authority. I have nothing to do but make out daily reports. our camp is several miles in the rear of the Army but the left wing has been pressed back too close to us.