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Hd. Qurs. Co. “A” 129th Ills. Vol. Infty.
On Picket 6 o’clock A.M., July 9th 1864
My Dear Wife

I intended to write you a long letter yesterday but was so busy laying out a camp and fixing up that I deferred it until to-day, and last night I was detailed for Picket. I sent in at daylight this morning for the portfolio to write to you, but, before it arrived, we recd. orders to advance. Cris Yetter brought out my breakfast, & I hasten to write a line while we are waiting as it is probable the army may advance to-day, and I may have no other opportunity soon.

We recd. the news this morning that the right wing of our army has crossed the river (official) & it is probable the whole army will move rapidly forward. We were in hopes that a few days would be allowed for rest, but we will be content to submit cheerfully to the better judgment of others.

I am very happy to be able to tell you that my health is excellent for which let us praise God. All the Company are in good health. Harry McDowell has come up to the Regt., his health is much improved.

We are now ordered to move. God bless you. Good bye.

Your affect. Husband
J. F.Culver

8 A.M. I closed my letter hastily & gave it to Chris Yetter to mail, but he waited until we advanced our lines thus giving me an opportunity to resume. It is very warm this morning and indicates a hot day; all will be gratified if it does not become necessary to march to-day.

Yesterday evening’s mail brought me no letters, yet I have recd. so many of late that I should be satisfied. Nate Hill has had a very sore foot, but it is improving rapidly. We rather expected to get pay before crossing the river, but it is probable now that we will have to wait till the close of the Campaign.

We had a very pleasant and profitable prayer meeting at Hd. Qurs. Co. “A” night before last, & I hope we may lay quiet to-morrow that we may enjoy the privileges of one more Holy Sabbath. We have been marching or fighting on every Sabbath of late, but I presume the necessities of the case demanded it. God has still dealt very kindly with us. Let us be thankful.

I have not heard yet from Bros. John or Sammy. Alf Huetson promised to go around and see them yesterday, but I have had no opportunity of seeing him since. I may learn of them after I am relieved this evening or to-morrow. I have had no opportunity to see Sergt. Gaff lately. John Lee was up to see me yesterday; he is well. I also saw Robinson (son of Warren Robinson) of the 20th Ills. yesterday; he says that all the boys that are left are well. All the non-veterans have gone home.

I must close as Yetter is anxious to return. If we do not move to-morrow, I will write. Give my love to all. Trust all to God. May his blessings rest upon you.

Your affect. Husband
J. F. Culver