Emma got a letter from Cyrus last Monday, I tell you we were all glad to hear from him,, he is well and with his regiment about thirty miles from the Tennessee river, I intended to send you his letter in this but I did not think of staying when I came up, and did not bring it with me, Em wants you to send it back soon, as she wishes to preserve it.  I will send it the next time I write.  The folks are all well at home.  We had a letter from Lib this week she thinks the 6th Cav. will be sent South in the Spring.  The President has called for 200,000 more and it is thought Iowa will fill her quota without a draft.  Gov. Stone telegraphed to Washington "Father Abraham we are coming" and without a draft too, in answer to the Pres call for the men.  There have 500 Rebels at Rock Island enlisted in the U. S. A. and more are wishing to do so.  Whole Regmts of the Southern army are deserting, and they have to fight among themselves to keep their army together, Poor hopes of the C.S.A. isn't it.  My dear Lyle I close for the present and write you soon again.  Let us write in praise and thanks to our Father for His blessings.  Ever true is your Mary
