January 26, 1864

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March 14, 1864

 

Orange County. Va, March the 6, 1864

Camp Near Gordainsvill

 

Dear Wife

I this morning seat my self to write you a few lines to let you know that I am well as (blank) this morning after my long march.  my cold is some­ thing better.  we started on the march the 1 day of march and got in camp the 5 day.  we had a hard march.  it rained and frozed and snowed the first day we march.  we avered twenty miles a day.  I wrote you a few lines and sent it by mr. H. Groves that started home the same day that we left the vally.  and I stated in that that william Smith was a going to start home that day.  but he got in an ambulance and came down with us to orange and is going to start for home in the morning.  and I thought it would be a good chance to send you a short letter.  being as I was so un well when I left home I thought you would be glad to hear from me.  and I hope when this comes to hand it may find you and the children enjoying good helth.  remember me to all inquiring Friends.  give my respects to Father and Mother Jim and Anny.  and to Frances's family and also to Sarah and the children give my respects to miss Sally and Becca.  and all of aunt Susan's Famly.  I heard that the yankees were in Fredericksburd they have made arade on richmond and got in four miles of there and burnt a bridge and tore up The Track for a short distance.  and they came in fifteen minutes of meeting the train and Jeneral Lee was on them.  but they were little too late.

      Willy and Jimmy are well and doing well.  you must write as soon as you get this.  and send me word how you are and the children, and if you have got your flower yet.  I left the mony with mr George Groty.  to try and get it for you.  and he said he would.  and I also left 80 dollars with him to get 10 yards of callico for anny.  give my respects to Farther and Sisters and keep a good potion for your self and the children.  I will now come to a close.  you must excuse messtakes and bad writing for my ink is so pail that it is no count   I still and shall forever as long as life last remain your kind and affectionate Husband.

John W. Watson

     

 

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