Benton Barracks
St. Louis Missouri
Oct. 3d 1861
Dear Parents,
I received your kind letter this morning and was glad to hear from you and that you were well. I also am well and enjoying myself very well. You ask where we are. At present we are at Benton Barracks, St. Louis, Missouri, but expect to leave here in the morning, for what point I cannot say. It is unknown but for the field of battle probably. Borrow no trouble about my turning traitor, neither about my turning my back to the enemy, and further I will try to do my duty both to my country and superior officers. Tell Mother that it is impossible for me to get my picture for her at present. I would if I could and be glad to. News came to hand this morning that the Rebels had taken Jefferson City, but that is doubtful. Our pickets were driven in last night. Now I believe I have told you all the news and must do a little begging. Father, I wish you would send me some money for I had bad luck and lost all the money I had and am without a cent. We received our uniforms yesterday. I like all the officers well and a fine lot of boys there is in the Company. Give my love to all the family. Remember me to all the friends. Write often. Direct to William Kelly Steele, Company H, 9th Regiment Iowa Volunteers, St. Louis, Missouri. I have written two letters to Mary Ann and have received no answer, and now good bye dear parents.
Your Affectionate Son and Brother,
William Kelly Steele
