Camp Crook, Charleston, July 5, 1864.
Dearest: —
Your last from Elmwood, June 16, reached me last night. Very glad to get so
good and cheerful talk.
It is not yet quite certain whether I shall be able to come
and see you for a day or two or not. I think it is hardly best for you to
attempt coming here now, but if I can't come to you, we will see about it.
Sunday morning the veterans of the Twelfth under Major Carey
were united to the Twenty-third and that evening your flag was formally
presented to the regiment at dress parade. The hearty cheers given for Mrs. H—
(that's you) showed that you were held in grateful remembrance. I do not know
whether you will get any letters from Colonel Comly or not. You certainly will
if he does not think it will be a bore to you.
You have no doubt seen the proceedings of the non-veterans
on giving the old flag to the governor at Columbus. I send a slip containing
them to be kept with our archives. Secretary [of State, William Henry]
Smith's allusion to me was awkward and nonsensical; but as it was well meant I,
of course, must submit to be made ridiculous with good grace.
The fracture of Abbott's arm turned out like mine, a simple
fracture without splintering and he saves his arm in good, condition. He is
doing well.
Our prisoners wounded at Cloyd's Mountain were well treated
by the citizens of Dublin and Newbern, etc., and by the Rebel soldiers of that
region. Morgan and his men, however, behaved badly towards them — very badly —
but as they were with them only a few hours, they were soon in better hands
again. At Lynchburg the people behaved well also.
Don't let Uncle Scott be pestered with the little sorrel. He
may give him away if he can't dispose of him otherwise.
We are gradually getting over our sore feet and weak
stomachs and shall be in good condition shortly. Captain Hood is here again in
command of his company. Major Mcllrath, Captain Warren, Lieutenants Deshong and
Nessle and perhaps one or two others leave us here. The Twenty-third is now a
large and splendid regiment again, better than ever, I suppose. — Love.
Affectionately, ever,
R.
Mrs. Hayes.
SOURCE: Charles Richard Williams, editor, Diary and Letters of
Rutherford Birchard Hayes, Volume 2, p. 481-2
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