Harrisburg Pa. April 22 1861

My Dear Catharine

I have only time to say a word or two to show that amid the noise and confusion of a Camp life I have not forgotten you. I am better than I was Yet I need rest very much The Lewisburg boys left last night for Phil^a to go onto protect the Chesapeak and Delaware Cannal[?]. The poor fellows will soon find that war is a terrible thing We had no [?] yesterday I slipped away long enough to have bookman[?] in the morning in the evening I had to work. I wish you would write me very fully stating how you get along let the boys hurry up the corn ground I would have Palmer finish the spring house and ice house and all the other work that is to be done about I suppose you have had the grape seed sown about the House and in the orchard as soon as you can dispense with Romig[?] work you will do so as the cattle are now sold Chopper can work the garden You should have some mellons planted in the sandy ground below the Barn yard and it is also time to have a little early corn out I may possibly come home soon if it is only to be at home an hour or two.

Very Affectionately Yours

Eli Slifer