CINCINNATI, April 30, 1861.
DEAR UNCLE:—Your frequent letters are very acceptable. I am sorry, however, to be compelled to think that we are indebted to your ill health for the favor. Lucy says, “Why don’t Uncle come down and make us a visit? If the house has a roof and floors, it is finished enough for war times and needs no further attention.” You will find it almost as quiet as your own town. About five thousand men have left, and our streets show that even that number missing is noticeable. If any war news comes, we shall be lively enough soon. The first ten days of the war was as jolly and exciting as you could wish.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
S. BIRCHARD.