Camp Holly Va

Aug 19

Dear Wife

We have just returned from a big Yanky hunt. Have been gone three days and suffered dreadfully with dust, but had otherwise a fine time.

Our company, Charles in command, with a Regt of Cavalry, was in the advance. We followed [the enemy] two days closely but did not get into any fight, although several times I was certain we were going to get into it. But the enemy saw proper to change their base, as the northern newspapers term their crawfishing.

Our company captured five horses, one mule and provision, camp equipage, etc., in abundance. I captured a fine young horse, four years old, and sold him this eve to Tom Ford for $100, one hundred dollars. Gen. Barksdale gave us all we captured. That was clever in him. I also supplied myself with shoes which I stood very much in need of.

We got back from our tramp this evening, will leave here at day light in the morning, where I have no idea. As the enemy have all left this part of the country, it is probable we will go to reinforce Jackson in the valley. There will be some troops left at Richmond but suppose they will bee the raw troops, as there is a sufficient number to guard the capital, specially when there is no enemy near.

You may expect to hear of fighting in the valley soon. Gen Lee has gone up there it is so reported. I have been anxious to go to the valley and in all probability I will bee there when you hear from me again. My feet are blistered now but I think they will not wear entirely out.

I am writeing by candlelight, the first in many days. (Yankee) There is a number of the boys complaining but that is always the case after or about the time of a march. Frank has been complaining several days with diarhea. John G., my bed fellow, is sick tonight, but hope he will bee well by morning. Charles and Frank received a letter each today from E and H.

H. spoke of going to see you. I do think something will happen if she does. It may bee that I will get to go home if she does that. You ought to treat her well if she comes and then she’l come back again some day.

The boys are all busy cooking to night. I must go to bed soon. I am so verry, verry tired. Taps now. The band are playing one [of] poor Harvies favorite pieces. It makes me feel so sad to hear them. I passed the brave boys lonely grave to day, probably for the last time, and could but shed a tear, and pray that wee all may meet him in Heaven.

Our band number 22 men [and] make the finest musick I ever heard. They are playing Dixie now and the boys applaud.

Congress met yesterday and commenced to regulate the army by proposal good will. I expect [them to] extend the conscript act from [age] thirty five to forty five.

I have nothing more that will interest you. Will go to bed and dream of loved ones far away. May God in his infinite mercy protect and direct us both that we may meet soon on earth, if not in Heaven, is the prayer [of] your devoted husband.

Newton

my love to all