It was more than I could bear.  It raised that passionate spirit that you know is always ready to ignite & burn in my bosom.  Although they bore the name of soldiers I looked on them with contempt.  I thought of what Iowa soldiers had done & suffered of the glorious achievements her soldiery had won My state pride swelled in my heart & I had to talk.  I told them that sooner than have Iowa disgrace herself by such a step, or that the government should at this stage of the war make a compromise that would disgrace it in the eyes of the civilized world.  I would willingly spend my best energies for years & go home a worn out & decriped old man & give to my family & friends a government free from disgrace.  This was was about the time of the election, it might have had a bad tendency you know I have but little "policy" in such cases.  I always must express my opinion no matter how unpopular - There is one thing that "bores" me verry much.  The profanity & low vulgarity a person is compelled to hear.  There is no avoiding it.  The fellow that can swear & get off the most vulgar songs, is the one to get along here.  You can Judge whether such society suits me I do not form many acquaintances, but aim to mingle with the best I can.  Capt Henry is still my friend & I think a true & an honest one too.  There are others who are good men but O how many who have put on the name of Christ & were devout christians at home.  Ministers & Classleaders & church members in "good standing" who are now base blaguards & profane swearers.  The moral & Religious community at "home" ought to be watchful when this strong element of vice returns.  It is enough to poison a Nation.  I pray God continually to keep me from such influences.  My paper is about covered & there are many things I would like to speak of but cannot for want of room.  Your precious letters I shall try to keep unless I have a good opportunity to send them home.  We expect to receive $52.00 each tomorrow.  I must commence on another leaf  L
