1862 February 23 Camp Pickens

Dear Wm.

I wrote to Pa a day or so ago and
told him that I shd probably be at home before this
on a Recruiting Expedition. My papers have not
reached me yet from Headquarters--but hope to re-
ceive them shortly--& then we will soon meet again.
I have no news to relate. all is quiet here with no
prospect for active preparation for some months, if then--
I wish mainly this morning to get you to attend to a matter
for me. My boy Ned left me last Monday & has not
yet returned--I threatened him a good thrashing & becoming
frightened, he went off. He has been seen once in the Camp of
the Regiment--He may be still here, as 'tis almost im-
possible to to[sic] find him & he can take his own time
to come back. I have advertised him here--I thought
he might have gone home, (as he cd. easily do so) & write
to get you to attend to it for me. If he comes Home he
wd hardly report, but stay around my cabins or
yours or Fathers unnoticed. You will please
attend to this & shld he be there have him arrested
& sent immediately back by some means to me. He
is the most timid negro I know & will stay off some
time from fear unless caught--I write this to
put you on guard,tho' I still believe he sleeps very
near me every night--Stuart is well--
Love to all
Yr affec. Bro.
Lieut J. C. Cabell Jr.
Co C 49 Va Vols

MSS 276