I once more take my pen in hand to write you a few lines to let u know that I yet in the land of the living and well as I could wish to be. I am now a volunteer under Capt. McCauley. We are now in Camp Shaver about 15 miles fromMissouri. There is about 4 thousand troops stationed in 15 miles of here.There are Col. Shavers regimet Col. Hineman's Col. Lyons' Col. Clayborn's.Our company has the post of honor and the right of the regiment (?).

Our Capt is a real (?) man and we will follow him anywhere. We have been turned over to the Southern Confederacy. The abolistionist is fortifying Springfield and we are looking for orders to march there every day.

I went home on the 2nd of July to see my folks. I left them the 3rd. I bid my mother adieu forever for I never expect to return and if I do I will bring with me a name of honor that will never die for i will not back from the danger. I have found one of my cousins from South Carolina in the army. we are now in the same company. there was many a tear shed the day we left Searcy but not one tear came to my eyes although I was leaving home and friends that love me. But there is no tears for me any more that fountain has gone dry that heart that once was tender is now withered away my life is no pleasure to me since I know it was not to you. I now am a volunteer until this war is settled. I received your letter that you sent to Newman a day or two before I left. I intended to come back there this winter if this war had not commenced. I heard that you had to leave home where you expected protection.

They persuaded you to not go with me and promised to protect you if you would stay and if I live to get home, they shall hear something more about it. I cannot say that I will ever see you any more and if I never do, hold to you independence as you did before. Never bow to any one nor be driven by any boddy (actual spelling). Live independent if you dady (actual spelling) never gives you a cent. That's the way I'm going to do. I never will depend on any one again. And if you want to marry again get a divorce and pitch in. If you want a divorce sue for it and I will not defend it. I do not want one. Not never will try to get one. I expect to get a furlough about Christmas and go home for 20 days if nothing happens. I must quit for this time as I am on guard today. Write to me as soon as you get this and tell me what is going on there. Direct you letters to Camp Shaver in care of Capt. J.C. McCauley.

Nothing more at present. Only remain yours