In camp 40 miles from Macon, South Carolina

January 8, 1864

My Own Dear Laura,

Just three months from. the day I left you and my dear little ones. Since that time I have written twenty-five letters, and not a single line from those that are dearest to me than my life but this morning Posy was made glad by the reception of two long letters from his Fine but me, poor me, not a word even only the sad news that you and my little babe was still in bad health. Oh if I could have only received one word from you. Why on earth is it that I am so neglected but my Dear I can willingly excuse you as you are in bad health. But Sis Fine should have sent a message only his words would have given me great consolation. I am now too full to mind. You must excuse me. I hardly can express my feelings; and written by a fire light. I will send this as far as Maridian by Lieut Center,a member of this regiment. I hope you will receive it in due time and that I may soon be made glad by the close reception of a long and interesting letter.

My Dear, if you are not able to write do get Sister Mat to write. She too, what has become of her. Probably though Col. H. employs her time. I hear that he still make his headquarters at her home.

I was indeed glad to hear that the Yankees did not visit your homes, but I am fearful that our own soldiers will destroy everything. I am indeed anxious to know what the Yanks have done for Grandfather and Mr. Banks. I hear that all the business part of Okolono has been burned which I am not much sorry to hear as if has always been a nest for those that have been laying out of the war.

I am now more anxious to hear direct from you than ever before because l am uneasy about your health. Oh do, my dear Wife take care of yourself for my sake because I expect to live to enjoy your presence after this Civil War is over. I am in fine health and if I could just hear that all was well at home I would be in fine spirits.

Details and furloughs are now being granted to many of our Brigade. If I am much longer to remain in suspense I will buy a detail or furlough as before.

I am the owner of two fine horses and one thousand dollars and I will give all tonight just to embrace my Dear Wife and little ones. I can buy a detail for a good horse. So look for me at any time.

Why is it that little (?) still suffers from that disease. What physician treats her case. If it seems possible that Armstrong or Bob can't cure her and you my dear, why is it that you don't "improve". I fear that you are imprudent in your diet or some exposure. Please try and live for me as it is my object in future to take care of myself. Especially in battle.

Posy is rejoicing over his letters and I am too full to say much more. I think that we will move from this Camp tomorrow. I hope we will go west and continue to travel until we reach Miss. Wesley is begging me to buy a detail and (?) for home.

Love to all and kiss the little one. Please write soon and continue to write often. Love to both Ma Early and Pa Early. Kiss the dear little babe. Adieu.

Your devoted husband

Tell Sister (Matilde?) not to marry until Peace is made which will be by the 4th March. I hope. Tell her to write to me all about it.

My light is out and must stop writing Adieu my dear Wife. Kiss Fannie and Thede. Tell them Papa will be home soon.

Tilman M. Daniel (Thomas)