August the 2
1861
We have had
marching orders for tomorrow but don't kno when we will get off I
am well at present I thought of coming home and seeing you
all before starting but cannot now I received your letters
all and was glad to hear from you and to hear that you were all
well and doing well Mary has not answerd my letter yet
I would like to have ben down to your celebration but it was to
far to walk the weather is very warm and dry I would
like to have you pictures... with me but you did not send them up
you said gurls was pining away with greaf I fell sorry for
them but can do nothing to comfor them but can give them
mnty best Tell Captain (a nickname for Emily) I would like
for her to cum up and be our captain the... won't have you
up here I must now close I guess you need not rite
again if you do go direct your letters to the 19 regiment
and they will follow on we will start tomorrow...I still
remain your frend and brother
John Dean to
Mis Rody E. Dean