1863 Dear friend, I write to inform you that the time has at length arrived when we are to bid adieu to our present encampment, and move forward to take our chances in combat. From this you will naturally infer That I anticipate a battle. Really I shall be surprised if we do not, within three days, meet the Confederates in force. Still we may not. The troops will all move except those assigned to garrison duty here.
Some divisions move today.
We have a ruff country to pass through, and our movements will necessarily be slow. The boys are much pleased with the idea of a move. They have become tired of the monotony of camp life, and welcome a change. In this I heartily concur, I too prefer a change.