Transcript:
Dear Julia,
No Doubt you will be quite astonished after what the papers have said about the precarious position my Brigade has been in for the last few days to learn that tomorrow I move south. This is one of the most delightful places I have ever been in. High enough to make quite a difference in the atmosphere. Springs of water that makes ice cease to be a luxury and scenery equal to anything you can imagine.
I don’t know where to tell you to direct a letter to me. The safest way is probably St. Louis. My duties not give me but precious little time, generally engaged writing until 12 o’clock at night. I received a letter today from [illeg.] and one from Collins, the first wanting me to appoint Thad. on my staff the second wanting me to give Ms. Thompson some appointment. Their letters came in since night and I have been busy ever since until now about 12 o’clock or I would answer them. Tell them that I have but two appointments and they must be from Lieuts. of the Army. One I feel it obligatory to make from the Regiment which I was Col. of and the other I have offered to Mr. Rollins if he can get the appointment of Lieut. I received one from Mr. Goodin of St. Louis also wanting a place. I expected to be able to make a short visit to Galena after this but now it does not look much like it. I want very much to get back into civilization for a few days to get me some things that I very much need. I am without a sword sash or uniform of every description according to my grade and see no chance of getting them. I subscribed for the Daily Democrat for you because it contains more Army news than any other paper and because it has a regular correspondence with one of the regiments of my Brigade. I have taken Orly into my new office. The position will be a pleasant one giving him a horse to ride but whether I can give him anything to which there is extra pay attached or not I don’t know. If I can I will. He is most exemplary in his conduct and is much thought of by the offices of the Company to which he has been attached. From Collins’ letters I see Simpson has not yet left. I hope he is enjoying better health than he could in Covington. Do the children annoy him any? Does he think Jess a bad boy? Tell Jess he must be a good boy and learn to read. I hope mother & Simp will stay with you all summer and I dont believe but what he would do better in the Winter there than in Covington. If I can draw my pay regularly I will supply you liberally. First however I must send about $300 more to the store to pay Hughletts. Write to me soon and often. Kiss the children for me. Ulys.
Citation: Ulysses S. Grant (1822-1885) autograph letter signed to Julia Dent Grant. Ironton, Mo.,15 August 1861. AMs 357/3