long ago that it was evacuated.  We heard the glorious news last night that Sherman had taken Charleston and Ft Sumpter; we heard the canon booming last evening, and went to the door to hear it more distinctly, when Dr. Ward came from Des Moines, and told us the news which he said was official, stronghold after stronghold is falling; surly this fabric of delusion cannot stand much longer.  Grant is holding Lee at Richmond, while Sherman is gradually coming up in his rear.  We look soon to hear of fall of the Rebel Capital itself.  We hear that the draft is postponed till the last of this month as volunteers are rushing to the rescue. O there is great excitement here about the discovery of Petroleum; companies are coming from the East to go to work developing the riches of Iowa.  There has oil been discovered in Bill Depew's well; everybody nearly 'round here is leasing land to the companies; to get the fifteenth barrel; Mr Winterroads has leased 900 acres buggy after buggy loads of men from Des Moines pass here going out to see the "oil" wells (?)  I certainly think there is Petroleum on our farm if any where and I don't like to sell at 40. dol, if there is any likely hood of there being such deposits on it.  John Jack, Co Recorder, wrote to Austin last Saturday asking him to call, as his father wants to buy a farm, Austin is going to send him word today, to come out to see him tomorrow, as he intends to rent it tomorrow or the next day.  I do wish you were here now.  I don't like the idea of selling just now; for if there is Petroleum in any quantity, it is a fortune; We rather think Mr Prentiss will take the 40 south of Runyon at 40 doll; Well my paper is almost full; We have not heard from Cy yet, Capt Roach promised to write to his Co. Commander for us.  I will write again in a few days.  Ever I your own little wife; keep up your spirits bravely, many  warm hearts wait to welcome you home. Mary.