time an expedition goes
out many of them follow in the wake of the army and come into camp. I
am using them as teamsters, hospital attendants, company cooks and so
forth, thus saving soldiers to carry the musket. I don't know what is
to become of these poor people in the end, but it weakens the enemy to
take them from them. If the new levies are sent in soon the rebels
will have a good time getting in their crops this Fall.

I have abandoned all hope of being able to make a visit home till the
close of the war. A few weeks' recreation would be very grateful
however. It is one constant strain now and has been for a year. If I
do get through I think I will take a few months of pure and undefiled
rest. I stand it well, however, having gained some fifteen pounds in
weight since leaving Cairo. Give my love to all at home.

ULYS.

[Footnote 2: Slaves.]

[During the two months just past there has been much fighting between
small bodies of the opposing armies.]

Corinth, Mississippi,
September 17th, 1862.

DEAR FATHER:

A letter from you and one from Mary were received some time ago, which
I commenced to answer in a letter addressed to Mary, but being
frequently interrupted by matters of business it was laid aside for
some days, and finally torn up. I now have all my time taxed. Although
occupying a position attracting but little attention at this time
there is probably no garrison more threatened to-day than this.

I expect to hold it and have never had any other feeling either here
or elsewhere but that of success. I would write you many particulars
but you are so imprudent that I dare not trust you with them; and
while on this subject let me say a word. I have not an enemy in the
world who has done me so much injury as you in your efforts in my
defence. I require no defenders and for my sake let me alone. I have
heard this from various sources and persons who have returned to this
Army and did not know that I had parents living near Cincinnati have
said that they found the best feeling existing towards me in every
place except there.

You are constantly denouncing other general officers and the inference
with people naturally is that you get your impressions from me. Do
nothing to correct what you have already done but for the future keep
quiet on this subject.

Mary wrote to me about an appointment for Mr. Nixon. I have nothing in
the world to do with any appointments, no power to make and nothing to