Clarke County Va Oct 5th 1862

Dear Mollie

After hearing a good sermon from Dr West, our Chaplain, I concluded to spend a few moments in writing you; but have no news woth naming.

The health of the soldiers is verry good, mine is excellent yet. I have not heard from any of our wounded but hope they are doing well as the weather has been favorable.

Some of those that were wounded at Malvern Hill have returned, others are on their way. Col Carter has got back to the delight of the entire regiment. Lt Col McElroy was so tight some of the boys got verry tired of him; but I think Carter will [be] strict also.

Yesterday was wash day; but as I was on duty did not get mine washed. Will ask the Col to let me wash tomorrow, think he wont object.

Everything quiet here and all at a loss to know what is going on or what is going to bee done next. I firmly believe there will not be much more fighting this fall if any; for both armies have suffered dredful loss in the last battles. Our best Regiments don’t number over five hundred available men.

I think too that steps will be taken soon to bring this unholy war to a close. I believe there is something of the kind on foot now; at least I hope so. The war will never cease by fighting; one of the parties will have to make some propositions; and then we can begin to see the end.

I have received [two] letters from Pa and one from Eugenia in the last few days. They did me good as both made me to understand that I am not forgotten. Also some good advise which has been of great benefit. I hope to answer them soon.

[Brother-in-law] Frank is at home by now and [Brother-in-law] Charles [captain of the Minutemen of Attala] will bee in a few days. You will bee verry much surprised at their getting home so soon. Virgil Wallace has arrived from Attala looking finely. Boys are all busy reading letters, but none came for me from my own love. I read one from [sister Hassie] to Frank. Will burn it. Read one from [sister] Emma the day after [Charles] left. She is not looking for him so soon.

I have just ate my dinner of beef and bread, all that we ever get. My teeth will bee worn out soon if I have beef all the time. It is quite dry and not much prospect for rain. Hope it will rain before we have to march any more.

Ive Shelby is with us about half the time. Is in fine health.

I must close as paper is scarce. Give my love to all my relatives and friends; receive my warmest love and many kisses. May the Lord bless and protect you is the sincere wish of your ever devoted husband.

N.N. Nash