Mt. Sewell on Pike from Lewisburg
down Gauley And Kanawha Rivers,
Thirty Miles From Lewisburg,
Camp Sewell, September 25, 1861.
Dear L–: – I am now in General Cox’s camp, twenty-five miles from the Carnifax Ferry. The regiment is back about twenty miles. I am here as J. A. [judge-advocate]. Came over yesterday. This camp is on the summit of a high hill or mountain which affords a most extensive view of mountain scenery. The enemy is on a hill about one or two miles from us under Wise. Their strength is not known. Firing continued between the pickets yesterday a good part of the day. Many cannon shot and shell also were let off without much result. One man (Major Hise) slightly wounded on our side. We are ordered not to fight the enemy, not to attack, I mean, until General Rosecrans arrives with our regiment and other forces. McCook is here. If the enemy does not retire, I think there will be a battle in a few days, but I think they will retreat again. They left a strongly fortified position day before yesterday. I found it yesterday. Well, all these matters you read in the papers.
Tell uncle I would write him, but I don’t know where he is, and I suppose he sees my letters often enough. I am in the best possible health and spirits. I trust you are also. It seems to me we are gradually getting better off in the war. It may, and will last some time, but the prospect improves steadily.
I merely write this morning to tell you of my present whereabouts, and that I love you dearly. Kisses and love for the boys and all.
Affectionately,
R.
Mrs. Hayes.