As I understand that mail goes out today I hastily write a few lines.
My health is good. I have been nursing Mr. Allen of our company who has been quite sick but is now doing well. Last Sabbath we took him up to Mr. Hartman's one mile (from) here where they furnished such things as I called for, for Mr. Allen. They are very kind and accommodating. I still stay with him but came to camp this morning to spend a few hours as he does not require so close attention now.
I should not be surprised, Ursula, if we had to stay two or three months longer, perhaps much more, but I think likely if all's well, that late this fall we will be allowed to return if Providence spares our lives. (As things turned out the time was only two weeks or so, for the regiment was mustered out of service Sept. 2nd, 1865 and sent to St. Paul where the men were discharged Sept. 16, 1865.)
Our boys are generally healthy, those in this place. Some discontented ones tried to kick up quite a breeze on account of our being retained in the service, and at one time things looked rather squally. I gave them to understand that I intended to stay here if I had to stay alone with the captain until I could leave honourably. Many would have said more probably, to discourage the embryo mutiny if they had more independence of character. The excitement has mostly died away and I guess will not amount to anything, but I have mentioned it, so that in case it should be revived and you should hear about it, that you would not be afraid that I was carried away midst the excitement. I long to get home, but I hope and trust that my longings will not impel me to act in that manner that will lower me in the estimation of cherished ones at home. I am enjoying myself pretty well, and hope and pray that at all times I may be actuated from right motives, to act as a Christian soldier Ö Ursula, if I do not get home to do fall's work would it not be well to try to get our land fall plowed? I do not know how costly it would be, and leave it to your good judgment, and perhaps it would be well to consult Frank Knapp in regard to it. I hope, loved one, that you will be able to write often. I am looking for a letter by next mail.
Love to all,
Your affectionate husband,
Levi Emery.
