COLUMBUS, Monday, 10 P. M., June 10, 1861.
DEAREST LU:–I have just sent Judge Matthews to bed in the room over the library, and I thought I’d write a few words to my dear wife before sleeping. We have been at the camp all the afternoon. Our quarters are not yet built; all things are new and disorganized; the location is not nearly so fine as Camp Dennison, but with all these disadvantages, we both came away feeling very happy. We visited our men; they behaved finely; they are ambitious and zealous, and met us in such a good spirit. We really were full of satisfaction with it. We are glad we are away from the crowds of visitors who interfere so with the drills at Camp Dennison.
When we reached town, Judge Matthews learned that Bosley was elected over the Grays; he was more than content with it.
I shall not need things in a hurry; take time, and don’t worry yourself. I shall probably be down the last of the week; I shall only be prevented by the absence of Colonel Rosecrans and Judge Matthews. The colonel has accepted and will be here Wednesday.
There is a good band in camp; several well drilled companies. We shall have four thousand men by Saturday. Ours is the best regiment: two companies from Cleveland, one from Sandusky, one from Bellefontaine and one from Ashtabula, under a son of J.R. Giddings–a pleasant gentleman and a capital company.
But I must stop this. You know how I love you; how I love the family all; but Lucy, I am much happier in this business than I could be fretting away in the old office near the courthouse. It is living. My only regret is that you don’t like our location. We shall probably spend the summer here, or a good part of it, unless we go into Virginia. No more tonight. Much love.
Sincerely,
R.B. HAYES.
MRS. HAYES.