Benton Barracks Hospital, St. Louis, Mo. September 3 1864

My Children,

I take my pen in hand to rite you A few lines
to let you know that I have not Forgot you
be assured that I will have you if it cost me my life
on the 28th of the month 8 hundred White and
8 hundred blacke solders expects to start up
the river to Glasgow        when they Come
I expect to be with them and expect to get you
Both in return
                       Your Miss Kaitty said that I tried
to steal you    You tell her from me that if she
meets me with ten thousand soldiers she will meet
Her enemy
                  Give my love to all enquiring friends
tell them all that we are well