Camp Chase, July 24, 1861.
Dear
Uncle: — I am surrounded by the
bustle and confusion attendant upon a hurried leaving of camp. We go tomorrow
at 5 A. M. to Zanesville by railroad, thence down the Muskingum on steamboats
to Marietta, and on the Ohio to Ripley Landing, a short distance from Point
Pieasant in Virginia. We are to be a part of General Rosecrans' force against
Wise.
Last night I had a
good chat with Fremont. He is a hero. All his words and acts inspire enthusiasm
and confidence. He and the governor reviewed our regiment today. Lucy, Laura,
and many friends were present. It was a stirring scene. I wish you could have
been here. You would subscribe heartily to General Fremont. Good-bye. My
saddest feeling — my almost only sad feeling — is leaving you in such bad
health.
Affectionately,
R. B. Hayes.
P. S. — Always send
me full sheets of paper — the blank sheet is so useful. The use and scarcity of
paper is appalling.
S.
Birchard.
SOURCE: Charles Richard Williams, editor, Diary and
Letters of Rutherford Birchard Hayes, Volume 2, p. 42-3
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