McElheney tells about his sightings of rebels while out on picket and describes the shooting of a soldier who tried to desert. He also expresses his love for his wife, Harriet.
Reports on the health of soldier friends and discusses family finances.
McElheney describes the grisly execution of two deserters from his regiment. He also tells about the burning of houses in Virginia in retaliation for the burning of Chambersburg.
McElheney asks his wife for a report on their farm animals and tells her that he does not need any more money.
McElheney scolds his wife for not writing more often. He also writes about applying for a furlough and making rings out of rebel shells.
McElheney discusses plans for raising sheep on the family farm. He also tells his wife that he sent her money and reassures her that he is doing well.
At Sylvester McElheney's request, Shearer writes to Harriet McElheney to tell her that her husband has been wounded but is expected to recover. He was shot in the leg when Confederate soldiers broke through their regiment's picket line.
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