Buckhannon, Virginia, August 21, 1861.
Dear Mother: —
You may send this letter, showing my whereabouts, to Lucy. I have no time to
write much. On Sunday night, about 12 o'clock, we were ordered to quietly pack
and march rapidly to this place. Some of our men had just returned from long
scouting expeditions. They were weary with marching over the hills in rain and
mud, and here was another march without sleeping. It was borne cheerfully — the
men supposing it was to meet an enemy.
We find this a lovely spot, superior in some respects to the
scenery about Weston. We have a beautiful camp about one and one-half miles
from the village. There are here parts of five regiments — all but this from
Cincinnati. Men are constantly arriving, showing the rapid concentration at
this point of a large body of troops. We are ignorant of its purpose, but
suppose it to be for service. We are all so healthy. I meet many Cincinnati
friends and enjoy the greetings.
I received a letter from Uncle, directed to Clarksburg. I
suppose that is still the best place to direct my letters. Write often. Let
Uncle know where I am and how lately you have heard from me. Love to all.
Affectionately,
R. B. Hayes.
Mrs. Sophia Hayes.
SOURCE: Charles Richard Williams, editor, Diary and
Letters of Rutherford Birchard Hayes, Volume 2, p. 72-3
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