all about how you are getting along.  You must not be discouraged even if I am.  I expect it would be better for me to write that we are doing big things, that we are making the Southern Confederacy tremble & that we will take Little Rock in a few weeks &c., but some way I fancy writing the truth to you, & I will always write Just as I feel, & I do feel that the way that this was is now being carried on under my own vision will never conquer I ought not to despond for who knows but what this will be answered & find (the answer) find us a victorious army in Batesville or Little Rock.  I expect that we will have fighting there as the Rebels are said to be fortifying in each of these places.  I will try to do my duty, & do hope that with what force we will have by cooperating with Gunboats on the River to effectively whip them out of these places.  I am sorry that I am going so far away from a line of communication, as I would now have a good opportunity of writing to you, these envellopes & stamps came in time.  Indeed I think your presents show that you had an eye to the useful, I shall cherish them & your letters above all else here.  Write me how Cy is getting & the rest of them with measels.  And now my own Dear wife I must say good bye  let us each pray Our Father to bless our country & restore peace   Lyle
