I have Just discovered that I have verry awkwardly commenced writing on the wrong page to be in strict acordence etiquette.  But under all the circumstances I shall not expect severe criticism.  Had I commenced writing so before the days of "Romance" were over I should certainly commence on a new sheet, but I will go ahead.  I have seen a late coppy of the State Register, giving an account of the great scare in Iowa, It was somewhat amusing, but there was nothing done that was not necesisary, and I presume that if "Bill Thombson" or any other gurrilla had made his appearance he would have met a warm reception, It is well to be prepared for any emergency, I am proud of Iowa's soldiers in the field and I think a majority of the State Militia would aquit themselves with honor, in case the state should be invaded.  The vote to be taken next Tuesday will tell of what material, those at home are composed, There are but few McClelenites in the 23rd, as the vote will show.  They are mostly quite illiterate.  We are still in Mc E Dyers Brigade, & if money or fighting would take us out, we could soon do either.  He persists in keeping up a strong Camp guard, cold or wet, which is a nuisance an an insult to soldiers, such as the 23d, But we are commanded to be subject to the powers that be.  We are on duty both Officers and men about every other day, exposed to about the most changable and disagreeable climate there is.
 My health is very good with the exception of a sore throat, causing a severe cough, which I have not been able to get rid of for two or three months, I have been verry cautious and shall take the best posible care of my self as I can under the circumstances.  I have been afraid sometimes that so much exposure to night air and lying out on the ground would materiall injure me but I require but little sleep and lay down & take a nap any get up and move around or sit by a fire when it is safe to have one.  We usually have a fire back at the "reserve" when there is no enemy in our immediate front as is the case at present.  The enemy have mostly gone north to help their friends to elect 
"Little M"
