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