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https://micivilwar.com/authors/smith-watson-b/
Regiment: 8th Michigan Cavalry
Battles Mentioned:
Historical Figures: John H. Morgan, Mahlon D. Manson
Cincinnati Ohio
July 13. 1863
Dear Father
We reached this
place this eve 5 ½ o’c &
stand ready to move ashore
with our forces or go farther
up or down the river & land.
Morgan is working Eastward
and we intend to cut him
off. I believe our boys would
attack 5 times their numbers
they are so anxious for a fight.
Our forces are in command
of Brig. Genl. Manson – con
sisting of Inft. & Cavly. We
moved up the river in 12
steamers & two gun boats as
convoys. All along the
river at every little place
the people turned out &
greeted us with cheers waving
of handkerchiefs & clapping
of hands.
The Cincinnati and turned
out strong & now while I am
writing a
[ ? ] of young ladies
are singing patriotic songs on
the
[ ? ] for our benefit. At
the clost of each piece the
boys cheer.
Cincinnati is considerably ex-
cited & come expect an attack
to night.
If you follow out on the
map the course we have
taken you will see that
we have make quite a
march. We took two days
rations expecting to be back in
that time but if is now nine
days & we prospect of returning
as yet.
I hope you are all
well & do not worry about me
My fate is with the Lord – my trust
is in him & I fear no danger.
With much love to all I
remain Your aff son
W B Smith
I have written you several times lately.
