cams_OAyers_b12_F006_006_004

hindermost one after running a mule
They fired in all about twenty shots at us
McF's horse got along side of him a moment
first and both him and horse were wounded
He however ran him through twice with his
saber and slashed his head in a frightfull [frightful]
manner I fired but four shots one of
which hit him glancing across the forehead
It was an exciting chase One escaped because I was
forced to remain and take care of my wounded
comrade (I secured the horse of the dead reb
Together with his arms and equipments his bridle
I kept for my own use as it was a fine one at
some future time I may tell you some more particulars
if some reb does not serve me as we did him

Rumor is busy now telling our future destiny
for the coming summer and so many places
have been named that I am bewildered in doubt
We may remain here but I scarcely believe it

Our Col has already gone to Washington and left
the Reg [regiment] whether he will ever command us again
is unknown to me I suppose he is to be made
Brigadier Jeneral [General] although he sayes [says] he has no
ambition that will summon him from the
command of the 2^nd Mass [Massachusetts] with his consent
and he further sayes [says] he would be willing
to pit it against any twoo [two] rebel regiments in
the field Some say we go to [Chalamage?] [Charlemagne] and
others consign us to Texas and yet others to
Washington City but I trust the latter place
above all others is not our doom but a soldier
must obey the will of others who may carry him
where they will, but the thoughts will ever wander
to friends wherever they be

Adieu O Ayer