My Dear Wife
I am well yours of the 8th went to the battery and got yesterday have to go about 2 miles
all the batteries are in camp in a large field they as well as the rest of the fifth Corps are all in winter quarters
I remain in the same place. And glad to know my folks enjoy good health We have not been paid yet, but expect to every day shall get 4 months pay
We are having first rate weather it is warm to day as it is at home in May have the doors open.
Got the papers there is no news here, all is still as it is at home and not doing much now
not being paid has hurt me for I ment to make $1000 this winter, but cannot do anything like it.

I saw a man hung the other day
it happened only a little way off so I went
he did not seem to care much about it
he deserted to the Rebs. Have got another case of tobac on the way soon as we are paid can sell it in one day there is about $90 profit on one
But winter is half gone, so the time to sell will be short, but I shall try and do the best I can. If you get out of things go to Lyman Cobbs or some other place and tell them and get what you want it will not be long before we are paid
will let you know the time We have been very busy building houses stables &c the officers are getting their wifes out here
I should not want to have my folks here every body making remarks, but the officers are of the Lowest Class in the army
often see them the worse for Liquor and has been a common thing
would send some money but am all out, put it all into my business

Give my love to All
D Brett"

Letter written in period pencil, comes with original cover addressed in period ink. Both are in fine condition. Comes with typed transcription.
I have seen plenty of letters mentioning soldiers being shot for desertion, but this is the first one I have seen that mentions a hanging!