Dear Mary,-

Everything here is as usual. We have our drills every day and our work to do. We do not get any news of the war; I presume you get it all. This part of Virginia some papers say is Union. I do not see it that way as the following will prove: Major Rogers of our Regiment was Officer of the Picket yesterday. After posting the pickets which are out about five or six miles from our Camp, he went a little ways from the line, tied his horse and went to a house on the main road. He had been there but a short time when he looked out and saw a reb astride of his horse. When he saw the Major he fired at him. The ball went past the Major through the door into the house. The Major returned the fire and tried to follow him but he was gone. He called out the reserve picket and tried to recapture his horse. He is out horse and all equipment. The boys captured all of the provisions there were in the house. You advise me in your letter not to go from Camp. When I go I am well armed and do not go alone. All those reports you hear going the rounds about the Regiment you can get the truth of from Mr. John King who started for home today. He said he had the pleasure of shaking hands with you when at home and reports that you and Ella are looking well. I received the package you sent me by him. Mr. Cowan's baggage has not come yet. Send me papers with the war news and write often to,