(p1) Dear Wife
I take this chance to write you a few lines to let you know that I am wee and hope that you all enjoy the same blessing. I got your letters dated Feb 15th and a paper. I did not get the paper that has the tabaco. if you have not sent the box no not as we expect to leave here soon. I should have been glad to get it for it is hard to get tobaco here. I will send my likeness as soon as we get paid. I would send a lock of hair but it is a baad sign. the
(p2) weather is very fine it is like summer. We are soon going up the river so you may not hear from for some time. I will write as often as I can. I suppose you got the check I sent. We shall be paid again soon. I hope I am glad to find you are comfortable. I shall feel the better but I think you should get as much from the Police Relief as the others get. some have got 50 dollars from them. Frank and the boys are all well and send their respects to all. tell Miss Haliday that Frank is the fat boy of the regiment. she would not know him.
(p3) give my love to all. I wish I could see you all but must wait. give my love to John and family also to Sams folks. write as soon as you get this. your affectionate husband
Laban Hill
PS to my dear Janey. I hope you are a good girl and mind mother and you must go to school as soon as the spring comes papa thinks of every day. you must be god to you brothers alfy and Willie must be good boys and not forget there poor papa for he does not forget them and may the Lord guide and protect you all is the prayer of your father
Laban Hill
(p4) PS March 9th
Dear wife since writing the above we have gone up the river to Baton Rogue from here we are ordered to march tomorrow for Port Hudson. We shall be likely to have a hard fight as soon as it is over I will write. We have a large army to match against them and trust we shall win. good bye for the present, pray for me.
Laban Hill