Dear Cousin Rebecca,

Your letter mailed 16th Jan was received a few days ago. I am sorry to hear of the loss of your Brother and sympathize with you in your sorrow. But Beck you know he died in a good cause--his life was given for his Country.

The most important news with us is that we are ordered to be ready to leave here soon. This Army Corps has been recognized and we are going? ? ? somewhere--I have very little idea where. I'll try to keep you informed of our place but we may get into some place or on some march where we will not be able to send any letters home for weeks--so if you shouldn't here from me for a long time you may know that it is because I don't have any opportunity to write.

I have pretty good health and although I don't think any of us are very glad to March. I guess I'll stand it as well as any March I have passed through and that is all I ask.

Captain Drips and the Boys who have been on duty with him at Cairo, returned to the Company day before yesterday. I was glad to see Silas [W. Angier] again. He looks well and hearty. I wrote to Matt about what I thought about buying land. I hardly think it would be best to buy any now unless I get an extraordinary bargain but I left it with Matt to do as he thought best.  I send my best respects to Yourself and all of the family and to inquiring minds generally.

Truly your Cousin

James B. King

Go to next Letter:  dated July 30, 1864