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O P N to Mother, May 23/63

Benton Barracks, St. Louis, Mar. 23d 63, Dear Mother, Yours of the 16th was duly received and I had to reply but ere these lines are received we shall be before the enemy at Island No. 10. You would hardly believe that we all did shout with joy as the welcome order was received by the Capts of companies and by them read to the men. One glad shout rent the air from a thousand throats. When you next hear from me I hope it will be for some daring deed that shall secure for us a victory and perhaps it will be my hand that will raise aloft