August 18. Sunday P. M. — Since writing the above we have
received word that the enemy in force is coming towards us through the
mountains to the southeast, and have been ordered to prepare three days'
rations and to be ready to march at a moment's notice to attack the enemy. I am
all ready. My little knapsack contains a flannel shirt, one of those you gave
me, two pairs of socks, a pair of drawers, a towel, the what-you-maycall-it you
made for me to hold scissors, etc., etc. This is enough. We are to go without
tents or cooking utensils. A part of Colonel Moor's Second German Regiment are
to go with us. Markbreit is among them. They reached here last night.
It will be a stirring time if we go, and the result of it
all by no means clear. I feel no apprehension — no presentiment of evil, but at
any rate you know how I love you and the dear boys and Grandma and all will
take care that I am not forgotten. You will know by telegraph long before this
reaches you what comes of the anticipated movements. I suspect we are
misinformed. At any rate, good-bye, darling. Kisses for all.
Affectionately,
R.
Mrs. Hayes.
SOURCE: Charles Richard Williams, editor, Diary and
Letters of Rutherford Birchard Hayes, Volume 2, p. 71
