Raleigh NC Wake County
August the 4th, 1861
Dear Ann C. Mansfield
I take my pen in hand to let you know that I am well and tolerable well satisfied. But you know that I would be better satisfied if I was at home with you and the two little children. I am very well satisfied in our camp without the exception of a few rules not necessary to mention. We are in camp at Crabtree Camp three miles north of Raleigh. I have seen one of my acquaintances from Milton. he told me right smart about my folks and he says for certain that James is not volunteered. And I want to come home and see you and the children before we leave here. You know that when I left home I had a little money but have little more now. Some say that I would do better to send what money it would take to pay my way home and back again to you but I think you would enjoy yourself better if I was to come home and see you and the children. This is the second letter I have written and sent to the post office today and did not receive airy a letter. I want you to write me whether you receive my letter or not. William Cheek and Dennis Beaver is in the same company I am. I see Brooks; several of his neighbors were down to see me last week. We received our arms last evening; they were the old muskets. i want to write a good many people in that country but I cannot write myself and they must excuse me. We had preaching in camp today. You must kiss the two little ones for me and tell Thomas where I am. You must excuse me this time for we must go on dress parade. I must bring my letter to a close by saying that I shall remain you kind and affectionate friend until death. I want you to give my love to all my friends.
J.B. Mansfield to Ann Mansfield
Direct your letters thus: J.B. Mansfield Camp Crabtree c/o Capt. Webster Raleigh, N.C.
