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Camp near Gordans ville Virginia
July 22nd 1862

Mr. L. D. Fletcher & wife

After my best respects to you both, I can inform you that Jim & myself are both in very good health, in much better health than could be expected under our present circumstances. I hope these few lines may find you all in good health. I will inform you also that I am getting very tired of this war & I think that the big fight at Richmond would gratify the ambition of any man. As Jim will write to you tomorrow, I will say but little about the war.

Martitia, as Anthony A. Mallaspener has gotten a discharge & is going to start to new garden tomorrow, I will send a few little tricks which I have captured from the enemy. I will send you a few of them & a few to mother, Cat & Becca. You & Becca may take a part of the needles. Cat must have the handkerchief & gloves. Mother may keep the ballance of the tricks.

Please write soon. I must close as Spener is going to start in a few minutes. Please send these things to mother. Jim was going to write you along letter & send to you, but the man is starting too soon. Jim wants you to write.

Most respectfully,
R. M. Barrett