Dear Brother – I seat myself this Holy Sabbath morning to write to you, as we did not get to church this morning. I have been on a visit down to uncle’s I stayed two weeks down there, I had a very nice time, they are well. Sallie is writing to Lizzie Beattie while I am writing to you. Uncle Arthur planted some corn while I was down there. We was at the love feast last Monday night, we had a very good meeting. Willie is a sweeet child, he is as proud as his Pa. Pa got him a hat, I wish you could see him with it on, he has got two teeth, and he can talk. I wish you was out, you would have a good chance. Mr. Tinsley says if you was only out you could go on his farm, and have all you made, that would be a good chance, but that is too close to home. I am afraid for any body to go there that I am acquainted with. I was over to Mr. Hursts, they were enquiring about you, they are mighty friendly people. Jim has not come from across the plains yet. I got acquainted with Mr. Albert Shaw While I was gone, he said that he was in the same company that you was. You must write to me, write often, so no more at present but remain your sister until death. May the Lord be with you where ever you are. I must come to a close as Sallie wants to write. You must excuse bad writing and spelling. Mary C. Utz. (Written on paper and enclosed with letters dated May 14, 1865, by J.E. and M.C. Utz." Dear Husband – The girls have both written you and told all the news, but I will just write a few lines, I confess I feel rather disappointed for I expected a letter from you today, anyhow. I have been looking for several days past but in vain. I hope you got my last letter and the one Mr. Woodson wrote, I wrote one to Henry also. Dear, I do not think it necessary for us to do anything farther towards getting you out, as I do not think it would hurry things any, I am looking to hear of the prison doors being opened every day. If I find they will not be I think we can get you out anyway. Oh, John, How do you think we would feel if we could be together again and you have your liberty at that? I cannot say where you ought to go, I have written to Pa to know whether he thought you could get in business of any kind out there. You will write and let me know whether you want anything or not. Sallie I think I will get a letter tomorrow, I will answer it immediately. May the God of mercy still protect you is still my prayer. Sallie Utz.
Community and Conflict - the Impact of the Civil War in the Ozarks
