as it was to be composed of picked men & horses - none were allowed to go but the very stoutest as it was rather a desperate enterprise.  I suppose that few expeditions ever underwent so much fatiege and hardship - some of those who returned rode 70 miles in one day & had not slept for four days & nights - but few men have the phisical ability to endure such hardships - I can only hope that God in his mercy will spare an only son - There were 21 Comissioned Officers of the 8 killed or wounded & taken prisiners - from this the Regt must nearly all be taken.  The idea of weary months spent in loathsome southern prisons haunts me with forbodings for the future of a boy with all his faults so dear to me - His love of Country & bravery is beyond question with me, But hope yet shines but to cheer me & he may be safe.  There was a Bigade left here for Port Hudson 5 or 6 days ago & returned last evening.  They found a rebel force in the rear of Pt Hudson & defeated them & took 1,000 prisiners.  The news up to the present is verry favorable from all points.  It is reported that Gen Hancock took steamers on the James River & started down in view of Reb lookouts - in day light as if he were going out to sea & during the night returned & went up & captured Ft Darling.  If it is so he has cut Lees armies in two & Richmond is surely ours - Mobile is bound to succumb to superior force & skill. Atlanta the same.  The hopes of the enemies of all mankind are waning.  They now look to harmony in the Chicago convention to day for something to be done in their favor - There are too many elements of discord there to fraternize.  But I must close where are you to day my dear wife - my hope for future earthly bliss - One thing I do hope that where ever you may be those around you will respect me enough to allow you to have a quiet hour in which to write to me without subjecting you to answer questions & carry on a frivolous & light conversation.
 There are many things I would like to speak of with regard to our financial or home afairs. but will wait until I know where you are - give my love to any friends - I had like to have forgotten about the little orphan boy you mentioned.  You ought to have taken him.  We could have given him a home & our affection - I tell you if I find such an oppertunity I'll take him in - good bye my own dear girl - may Heaven bless you is the prayer of your husband    L A Garrett  
P.S.  I have had no table to write on & have made rather a hard looking scribble of it   L. A. G
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