Letter from Samuel B. Reed to Jennie Reed, September 1, 1862

In this letter from September 1, 1862, Samuel Reed writes to his wife to assure them that he is safe from "all [Confederate] moving bands." He also comments on "the Indian troubles in Minnesota," stating that although he knows nothing of them he is not surprised to learn that there have been attacks on "the defenseless frontier on the north west [sic] " as there are many "fierce and warlike nations" which would relish an opportunity to attack whites.

Moravia
1st Sept 1862

Dearest Jennie

I was very glad to receive your kind letter of Aug 24. It was brought to me on the line and was indeed very welcome. Your fears in regard to danger from the Enemy in Missouri is entirely without foundation. We are as safe here from all moving bands as you are in Illinois so do not loose [sic] any sleep on that act. I hope sister Lettie will come and spend the winter with us. In regard to the Indian troubles in Minnesota I know nothing of them as we do not get any papers but am not surprised that they should attack the defenseless frontier on the north west. There are many tribes or remnants of tribes [anung] which are the Sous [sic] and Ogibuways [sic] both fierce and warlike nations that would be glad of an oportunity [sic] to attack the whites. Urge Lettie to come and see us if she can in these times of trouble. I am glad that Chs and Andrew have got along so well with the work in this state it seems as though there was not enough men left to [scene] the corn crop which is abundant and generally good. But I suppose that what men are left will work more and no doubt the crop will be [sicersed] and perhaps better them when there is an abundance of help. I have just got through the most difficult part of my line to locute and if nothing happens I think I can get through to Chariton in four weeks and you can look for me very soon after the field work is finished. Mr. Ainsworth sent me word that he would come over and see me yesterday (Sunday) but we had a very heavy rain in the morning and he did not come I should like much to see him. You must not let Anne feel bad because I am away from home. My health is good very good and if it does not continue so I shall let you know at once. I will try and write you as often as once a week but may not be able to get my letters to the P.O. as such institutions are not very common in this part of the United States.

I have but a moment more to write before the time for sending this expires.

Dear Jennie your letters are very welcome and when received do cheer and comfort me more than I can express and I hope you will write often. I shall be very carefull [sic] of my health and not do more than my part of the hard work of locuting the road. It seems a very long time since I left Joliet and my own dear wife and children. I must say good night and good by [sic] to all. I will try and write Anne a letter next time I write to you.

Love to all Yours very Affectionately
Samuel B. Reed