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South Bank Chattahooche River, July 14, 1864. My dear friend, I snatch a moment in which to reassure you of my perfect confidence in your friendship and the friendship of your Sister, tho not only one letter, but an hundred fail. I should indeed be unworthy the sympathy of such as you did I suffer these mishaps of circumstance to engender a doubting spirit. - If the fellowships that link us together mean anything at all - if they are not mere pleasant make-beliefs and delightful cheats, - they must certainly have root in the soul, since neither has seen the other, or heard the sound of that other's voice, or watched that other's especial manner and ways. Well, the soul knows: is certain- reliant - assured. You cannot fail me, if I am in your worlds. Why then should I doubt? Say this also to your Sister. You have, I trust, already heard of my return to my Regt. I was not quite i time for the charge of the 27th, in which my noble Colonel lost his life; but should have been except for the destruction of the train at Ringold and again at Kingston, caused by the interference of guerrillas along the road. The weather is exceedingly hot - almost unendurable - ranging from 110 upwards. Men are sun-struck and die, every day. For myself, having suffered from coup de soleil once, in Kentucky, I am obliged to be very careful, the moreso as my general health is by no means re-established. We have crossed the river - are entrenched - and await the crossing of those Corps still on the other side - then forward to Atlanta. I must be brief, for I have much work to do. You will give to your Sister for me that pleasant remembrance which also you must take for yourself - both believing me Ever Truly, Richard Realf.