pray, then he is in hell
sure, for I never heard him reprove anyone in any way, nor speak of religion. But I seen
him often reading his Bible and I know he prayed regular, and I never heard him say a
bad word, or do a bad thing. I have seen him play a few games of cards, just to pass
time off, but when he would quit, he would laugh and say he had no idea what he was
doing, for he never could learn. But if he is not in heaven, I pity the rest of Co. C.
Enough of that. Gen Buell was in eight or ten miles of us with a long force. I think it
is time, but do not know. I think there will be a big fight near Corinth, Miss. in a
few days, but I do not know. If there is, I do not think our brigade will be put
forward in the fight. But you know, I do not know. Our officers may have us forced in
to get a big name. I suppose the small pox has knocked the visiting into a cocked hat.
Perhaps it is best. We would be hard to find even if you was at the landing, unless you
accidently asked one of our own Reg where the 11th Ill was, for there is Regs all around
us and close by us that do not know what state they are from or their no. In fact,
they may be Secesh for anything I know. But I would like to see some of you so well,
and Zetty weller. You say you would have to bring Oscar if you did come. You know I
would like to see you and Oscar better than any of the rest, but I do think you had
better stay at home, as to come with him. It would be a hard place for you or Rebecca,
but worse with a child. I think I know, or I would not say what I have. I am sorry
to say it, but I think it best. I do not say for any of you to come, we may not be
here in the morning. Tell Zetty to send me a Centralia paper. Tell John Kell I have his
knife he gave me to cut his boot off. I see a few ladies here from the North. I will
write tomorrow. Where is the 22nd Reg? Have they been in any fight? It is very warm
and clear, but looks like rain soon. Zetty, remember your pa. Do not say furlough to
me. Your William
