Atlanta
July 17th 1864
In the woods near Atlanta GA,
Dear cousin
In answer to your highly
appreciated missive of the 11th inst,
which came to hand yesterday I seat
myself to write you a few lines which
will inform you that I am well
and I hope this may find you
all well I was verry sorry to hear
that the measles are in that settlement
I hope you all will not catch them
I have nothing of much importance
to write I rec,d a letter from home
a few days ago which informed me
that they were all enjoying good
health I also rec,d one from
Richard he is at macon guarding
prisoners he says they have got
(1500) fifteen hundred yankey
officers to guard I have been
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looking for a letter from my
sweetheart for several days but
it looks like she does not intend
to write to me any more I want
you to speak a good word to
Miss Georgia Chappel for me
tell her that I would be more
than glad if I could see her
I do not know as I have any
thing else to write at present
Give my love and best respects
to all enquiring friends and
rec, a due portion yourself
I remain as ever your
affectionate cousin until death
M, H, McCarter
Direct your letter as you did
before