.NTM4.OTE2

Knapsacks, previous to this since leaving the Island, which is over a month the Regt. have been without a change of cloths and a dirtier set of men, you could hardly imagine. Among other things Capt. L brought four letters for me written while I was at the Hospital and on the way home. Carries Dear's written Sept. 13th was on of the number, then she was just recovering from her sickness after Charlie was home and wrote in good spirits. Now in a few short weeks and she is no more Sometimes I almost feel as though I must go home, and be with you to help share your grief with or without orders. Then the idea of disgraceing myself and family, when I could do nothing to recompence myself for it, immediately dispels the thought. So I will strugle on, and keep myself in as good cheer as possible, for in less than eight short months shall be clear from the Army, and by that time am in hopes that there will be no more need to peril ourselves for the sake of the dear old flag, which so many of our brave boys have fought and died to save from being trampled under foot. May God grant it: is my earnest prayer