Manchester, Maryland July 3rd, 1863
Dear Lilly
For a wonder we were permitted to lay by yesterday and rest. Col[.] Huey now commands a brigade of five regiments and we were sent back to this place on the night of the second to watch that the rebel Stewart [sic] did not get back the way he came, and destroy the rail road depot at Manchester. There was heavy firing all yesterday somewhere near Gettysburgh [sic] but we cannot hear the result. No prisoners arrived last evening from the scene of action, this looks well for us. We are very weary and our horses are used up entirely they have not been more than half fed for some three weeks and are almost too weak to stand, unshod, lame[,] sore backed and stiffened up, it is very discouraging to be in command of such a mob they are nothing more. Surely an administration must be imbecile that could have the finest Cavalry the world ever saw at less than their present expense, if they choose, yet fail to get good horses and dont [sic] consider those they have worth funding. I suppose I am talking Copperheadism, and I begin to feel so too.
I am midling [sic] well but suffer much from debility and am almost naked and cant [sic] get any clothes.
The last letter I had from home was mailed on the 18th. I am going to try hard for ten days as soon as the Campaign is over.
With love to all I remain
Affect[ionatel]y
Joe
