'ere all can be accomplished, many must fall; the widdows grief and orphans cry will ever and anon be heard, reminding us that our freedom and liberty's bought at a fearful cost, can all say as did the widdow of Major Booth, (Commander of the post at Ft Pillow) "I have given to my country all that I had to give - My Husband.  Yet I have freely given him for freedom and my Country."  Yes, we will prove by our actions that we are worthy to be the daughters of the brave women of '76; we will bucle on the knapsack for our husbands and bid them God speed, and to the war for God and the right. I am quite contented here yet, and hear from home often; I got a letter from Austin and Hattie last week, they were all well, and every thing is going on, on the farm quite prosperously; I presume that Austin will keep you posted in home affairs, he remarked in his letter that he suposed your letters would be scarce in that county now.  Aunt Messia has not come home yet, but we are looking for her every day.  I think it's likely I will go to Danville next week, but direct your letters plainly to this place all the time, remember the Co. Vermillion.  I hope you will excuse this short letter, and pardon me if a spirit sadness or complaing has showed itself in what I have written, for I am feeling badly, but don't my dear let it trouble you.  Ever remember your wife at a throne of grace, for she feels that she needs your prayers, and let me assure you my dear husband that your name is never left out. I ever remain your affectionate wife Mary Garrett
