We are at present camped at this place which has been a considerable town before the war, but, like all the rest of the towns in this part of the country is vey much damaged. We move around a great deal, as you can see, but do not generally go very far at a time. I am in tolerable health; I have a bad cough, but an able to do my share of duty. I have a tolerable good horse at present and can ride wherever we move. I hope these lines will find you all in good health. I have been looking for a letter from you for some time; I have not learned wh ether you received that money which I sent home by Mr. Thomas; He promised to leave it at Stone's Bank in Freeport. I have written tow letters before this since I sent the money and have not yet heard whether you received it or not. Henry is well and with the regiment. Whenever I am not on duty and I feel well I make finger rings and it takes a good deal for tobacco. I generally sell the rings for one dollar apiece. The Loran boys are all well as far as I know. Henry Harpster is not with the regiment, but I think he is well. David Wingert is in the Hospital he has been very sick but is getting better, Samuel Harsburger is also in the Hospital. I have not been in any battle yet, but do not know how long I will escape getting in one. Our regiment is acting as Cavalry and are not likely to get in a fight soon; We are used as scouts and guards. The weather is tolerable pleasant to be so far south; it is not as hot as I expected it to be and the nights are cool. I would like you to write soon and let me know who the crops look and how things are going at home. I always feel anxious to know, Five my respects to all. As for war news, I suppose you know about as much as we do. But there has been some hard fighting down about Atlanta and we see a good many prisoners pass here; We are about 40 miles from Atlanta. I shall close by saying to the children, behave well and be good. When you write let me know whether those small rings came through safe and if so I will send some more. No more, but remain faithful.

John Mowry