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day we were sworn in (Aug 1st) making in all $56.35. The first opportunity I have, which I consider safe, I will send you $40.00. I would send you more mother but we are going to buy hats, which are to cost $3.00, or near that, in preference to wearing the caps during the hot weather, Paying cooks [etc] has taken a dollar in two more.

  But what I keep, I will take care of.   The $40.00 which I send I expect you to use as you please, we will likely be paid again very soon as the government owes us 2 months pay at present.  I have forgotten to mention in my letters home, that I have one memento of the battle field, which I will send home the first opportunity which I have.  It is a belt taken off the body of a dead rebel officer, on the Friday night of the famous charge.  It is neatly made of bell metal, marked C.S.A.   I prize it very highly and know it