Camp At Union Mills Va. June 21st 1863Dear Sister

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“All quiet on the Potomac”, or at least all is quiet in our vacinity, tho’ the heavy cannonading which we have heard all day long, (and still continues) tells us that it is not all quiet in the direction of Thoroughfare Gap. I think that Lee will get more than he bargained for wherever he may pitch on.

For the past few days we have had cool, comfortable weather, with a little rain, just enough to keep the dust well wet down; while I am writing it is raining very easy, just as it ought to, in order to make fighting comfortable at all.

The 1st Vt. Brigade went out from Centerville to Bristow Station last night. Thier teams stoped over night near our camp & Hen Spafford came down & stoped with me. I think prehaps Hooker may kick up a big fight somewhere about us yet; without doubt he will if Lee is realy any where in this vacinity.

The 12th Regt. left here this morning for Wolf Run Shoals where they will probarbly remain, if nothing uncommon happens, until thier time is out, which

is the last of next week. Our time will be out four weeks 30 days from tomorrow, (the 22d July) I think prehaps I can get such pants as I spoke of having made somewhere on the road home or at least at B. after we get there, so there will be no use in getting them made there now, as I spoke of. Mother can do as she sees fit about it however.

I recd a letter from Aunt Diana a few days since; she asked me to send them my photograph as I am now. Josie Hadley also wants one, so you can get some at Springfield & send one to each. What do you think of the picture which I enclose in this letter? If you choose you can send this to Josie instead of a Photograph. I did’nt think to put the pieces of the 4th Regt. flag which I spoke of in my last letter so will put it in this.

I am rather expecting a letter from you this P.M. as I have not recd one for three days. The 15th Regt is encamped near us. Geo. is well.

We are pretty well situated here, having two wall tents, with a good board floor laid in one of them. Rather better off than the old troops. Love to Father Mother & all inquiring friends.

Your Aff Brother Joseph Spafford

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Monday Morning. 22d June. Clear & warmer again. Capt Mason gone on picket. 1st Vt Brigade are encamped, with the rest of the Div. at Bristow Station. Regt getting more unhealthy than it has been, in fact it could not well be more healthy, than it was through the month of May.