In the first two letters we find James reporting on his health and the status of the trees in Virginia.  He is concerned about affairs at home and probably in need of clothing for himself.  It seems as though he is anxious to receive a letter from his wife.  He is almost despondent sounding, reminding his wife to make arrangements should he die.

By the third letter he has heard from his wife.  Her letter took about 13 days to get to him. Again, he reports on his health and farming conditions but has probably seen something of battle and is looking for a little comfort or relief from his anxious circumstances.  Letters 3 and 4 are written in two consecutive days.  Again, the numbers in brackets are notes and are not in the original letters.

Number 3

Virginia Carliner County   May the 11, 1862

Dier wife      I reseved youre leter dated April the 29 witch gave me great plesier to read it      I am well at present      We expect to have a big fight here every minit      Tha is no corne planted her yet       I had a bad spell in Golesborro but I have got well     I want you to rite every weeke to mee and have your leter back right    tha last I reseved came to the ridment      I want it too come to Company D  45  Ga. Ridgment [1]      You wrote to me that you had some whiskey   Continue reading →