CAMP NEAR WESTON, VIRGINIA,
Wednesday, P. M., July 31, 1861.
DEAR MOTHER:–How you would enjoy sitting by my side on this beautiful hill and feasting your eyes on the sweep of hills that surrounds us. Nothing in Vermont is finer. The great majority of the people here are friendly and glad to have us here to protect them from the Secessionists. This is agreeable; it puts us in the place of protectors instead of invaders. The weather is warm, but a good breeze is blowing. The water is good; milk and blackberries abundant, and the location perfectly healthy. . . .
The village is a pretty one with many good residences and nice people. The State is, or was, building near where we are encamped a large lunatic asylum–an expensive and elegant structure. The war stops the work. This part of Virginia naturally belongs to the West; they are now in no way connected with eastern Virginia. The only papers reaching here from Richmond come by way of Nashville, Louisville, and Cincinnati. The courthouse and several churches are creditable buildings, and the shrubbery and walks in the private grounds are quite beautiful. Do not allow yourself to worry if you do not hear often. I think of you often. Love to Laura and all.
Affectionately, your son,
R. B. HAYES.
MRS. SOPHIA HAYES.
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[WESTON], July 31, [1861], Wednesday P.M.
DEAREST:–We are to stay here and keep in countenance the Union people for several days–or a week or more–until others come in to take our places. It is safe, which would please Mother; it is pleasant as a camping ground. I wish you were here.
I tell Mr. Schooley to bring me an India-rubber havelock and cape to keep water out of neck–or some such thing; also strong black buttons–a few–and a pair of yellow spurs, regulation style.
Young Jewett sleeps well and is in no great pain–so far doing well. His chance of saving his foot is about even–a sad case. We are to be alone in this locality; possibly we may be divided so as to occupy two or three places. Kisses for the boys.
Affectionately,
R.
MRS. HAYES.