1862 March 13 Front Royal, Va.

Home March 13 1862

My Dear Richard

Your Ma has just closed a
letter to you--but i must not lose the op-
portunity to say a word more to you.
It is now past 10 & Cousin Willie starts
early in the morning--I must therefore be
very brief--We regret very much you did
not come by home altho' it would be
a very poor satisfaction knowing we must
so soon part--probably too for ever--
If Cousin Willie can take your Boots
I will send you a very good pair--
perhaps you can send the others back
and I will have them mended for
you! Walter staid home last
night--He is greatly improved
and is looking very well--
We regret very much that we did
not know of the Wagon going over
today, that we might have sent
you something--Tell Amos his family
is quite well--and that I will if I
can go to see them--It is now impose-
ible to say how long--

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For I am quite unwell--
Try to write to us quite frequently
and when ever you can get a spare
moment have a letter written to
come by the first opportunity--
When you are tempted to
engage in vice and dissipation- think
of our once happy home- of your
Dear Ma & the little children--
Look daily to God for protection
and guidance--May he watch over
and defend you--Remember me very
affectionately to all the members of
your Company. If you cross over the
mountains I will try to meet you
Good - bye, god be with you!
Truly Your Affectionate
Parent
M.B. Buck


Mr. Richard B Buck
Co. B 17th Regt Va Vols
Kindness of
W W Richardson

MSS 3064