Columbus, Monday, 10 P. M., June 10, 1861.
Dearest Lu: —
I have just sent Judge Matthews to bed in the room over the library, and I
thought I'd write a few words to my dear wife before sleeping. We have been at
the camp all the afternoon. Our quarters are not yet built; all things are new
and disorganized; the location is not nearly so fine as Camp Dennison, but with
all these disadvantages, we both came away feeling very happy. We visited our
men; they behaved finely; they are ambitious and zealous, and met us in such a
good spirit. We really were full of satisfaction with it. We are glad we are
away from the crowds of visitors who interfere so with the drills at Camp
Dennison.
When we reached town, Judge Matthews learned that Bosley was
elected over the Grays; he was more than content with it.
I shall not need things in a hurry; take time, and don't
worry yourself. I shall probably be down the last of the week; I shall only be
prevented by the absence of Colonel Rosecrans and Judge Matthews. The colonel
has accepted and will be here Wednesday.
There is a good band in camp; several well drilled
companies. We shall have four thousand men by Saturday. Ours is the best
regiment: two companies from Cleveland, one from Sandusky, one from
Bellefontaine and one from Ashtabula, under a son of J. R. Giddings — a pleasant
gentleman and a capital company.
But I must stop this. You know how I love you; how I love
the family all; but Lucy, I am much happier in this business than I could be
fretting away in the old office near the courthouse. It is living. My only
regret is that you don't like our location. We shall probably spend the summer
here, or a good part of it, unless we go into Virginia. No more tonight. Much
love.
Sincerely,
R. B. Hayes.
Mrs. Hayes.
SOURCE: Charles Richard Williams, editor, Diary and
Letters of Rutherford Birchard Hayes, Volume 2, p. 23-4
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