I received a letter from Austin a day or two ago.  May & Ida had deptheria, the rest were all well.  Judge Tumly had sold some of our claims on condition for $800. but property, had fallen & the parties backed out.  Austin had sent to you for the certificates of our right &c, if you have them they are promptly sent forward & I will not trouble my hand about it I should be glad to realize all there is in those claims, but can hardly expect it, I often find myself laying awake thinking over how much money it will take to set us up right - but I see many around me with money plenty who are unhappy - It is true as you say that happiness is wealth - Conscious innocense & a willing hand brings cheerfulness & competence. & happiness will follow.  We are as you have seen by the heading at Morganza Bend on the Miss River & I don't know how long we may stay here.  This place is about half way between the mouth of Red Riv & Port Hudson (on the west bank -)  Gen Warren is at Baten Rogue.  We have been shifted about so often that I hardly know who are our commanders - Gens Emery, Lawler, Warren - Dana, Ord, Washburn, &c. have been our commanders at diferent times,  Ours is the first Bigade - 1st Division 13" A.C. at present.  I think we will go to Baten Rouge.  Since the spring has opened in Iowa & I find that they have not all frozen to death I feel like I could be contented there - I feel like I could be happy if we were in a home of our own - I feel a kind of an asurance that if we live we will yet have a nice home.  I expect I think about it too much. but cant help it.  When I get a Tribune I look over the war news a little & believe all that looks reasonable & then turn to the proceedings of the "American Institute Farmers Club" & study Horticuture in preference to tactics - Well my dear girl I have written more than I intended to to day - I thought this morning that I would write a good, interesting letter this time & studied over what I'd write & sat down to it & I don't know that I have given one sentiment as contemplated - but have just let my pen run wild - I am enjoying the best health verry robust for summer, give me notice in time if you should conclude to go home soon - so that I can mail my letters direct to you -- put your real estate through & when I get home we will sell out our estate & locate on some fine site - & enjoy the benefit we are earning by our present sacrifices - & our Father keep & guide my dear wife is the prayer of your Lyle
