.ODcw.MjEyMA

and shure enough we did but they were Union troops which had reached there in advance of us. Towards evening the 7th Kansas and our reg. took the lead for Ripley. We drove a strong rebel picket about eight miles and entered Ripley about one o clock at night. Oct. 8th sevral scouting parties were sent out. Co.s H & D took a rebel who had been at the fights of Fort Donnelson, Shilo, Iuca and Corinth. On the night of the 10th we were out scouting. On the night of the 11th Co. D was on picket and it was a dark wet cold night. At 12 o clock on the night of the 12th we were routed up to go to Corinth via of Rienzi and guard through a long train and some prisoners, we arived at Rienzi in the evening of the 13th and staid all night. The next day (14th) we arived at Corinth and we were right glad to see our quinine Brigade and new recruits after having been away from them so long. We have settled down here and formed a regular camp as if we were going to remain here sevral days and rest. . There is no crops within six miles and the earth is thrown up into piles and riges to protect men from bullets and the timber is filled to prevent charges. ....... Capt Reynolds received a letter making inquiries about us. After this I won't give you so much trouble for if I have no chance to write a letter I will write you a line with a pencil. Wm. and I are all right and kicking. The secesh haven't got us and won't be likely to as long as we have good horses. . Our horses was valued at the highest figure or one-hundred dollars each. I don't know when Uncle Sam is going to pay us for them, he already has his mark on them. We wanto hear from you as soon as possible. I must bring this lengthy letter to a close and go and wash a shirt for I haven't washed one these six weeks past, but hoping to hear from you often. I remain your affectionate brother, Chas. W. Gallentine. P. S. Direct to Corinth, Miss.