1861 October the 25 Orange court house

Dear father and mother
It is with pleasure that
I seat my self to let
know that I am well
and hope when theas
few lines come to hand
thy may find you
enjoying the same bless
ing we had a battle
at leasburg we killed
and wounded and taken
prisners a bout 1500 men
I dont think our
Regiment was in the
fight we air expecting
a big fight every day
father I have no
news of importance
to write to you

[page 2]
I dont think it will be very long untill
peace is made
father I would like
if you would send
me two or three
dollars if you have
it I have not got
a cent of money
we will draw about
40 dollars and I will
send you the maney[sic]
back again I want
as you to send it as soon
you receive this letter
if you can send the course
send the money
in the course 2 weaks
direct it to the Regiment
if you in the co send
me the money in a short
time

[page 3]
direct it t orange
court house Va
I made mistake a bout you
sending me some money if you
can send me the many
in the course 2 weeks direct
to orange court house and
if you cant direct it to the
28 Regiment Va Vol In care
of P. G. Breckenridge
give my love to all the
children I would like
to see you all mother
I read my bible every
day nearly i an[sic] in
fine spirits tell george
to take the answer
to amsterdam so it
will directly george write
to me often and
let the girls a lone
writ to me how much

[page 4]
wheat you sowed
tell Benton howdy
for me if i ever get
home we will have
Jolly old time
now I must bring
my letter to a close
nothing more at
preasant
but i hope to remain
your dear son
James B Painter

[caricature of head sketched below signature]

James B. Painter, Corporal in Co. K, 28th Virginia Infantry

MSS 10661