Camp near Alexandria Va
Oct 2nd 1862
Dear Sister
I am present time feeling
much better but am yet quite feeble.
we are now loged in large sibley
tents and are now very comfortable
and to day the Division is to be reviewed
by Brig Gent. D. R. Sickles who now
commands in Hooker’s place we also
have a new commander of the brigade
reg Brig Gent. Joseph B. Carr late Colonel
of the 2nd New York.
The articles you sent were a most agre—
able supprise and thankfully received the
jellies are delicous the wine stimulating
and refreshing and the sags I shall have
made into a pudding to morrow.
I received two letters last night one
from Jane and one from George and
now have a painful disclosure to make
[page 2]
namely that Wm has deserted thus leaving
me the last of the mess which Co D [ever?]
had Edwards David William and myself
Bill has got as far as Battimore I heard
last night.
If I feel any worse I will let you know
untill then worry not With these few lines
I will close Aff your brother
Jere Downes.