Mention of General Bank's successful campaign. He asks after her teeth.
Napoleonville La.
May 12th [1863]
My dear Wife
I have just been out for a walk to try to pass away the time and exercise enough to keep digestion going on.
My dear I think that we can feel justiy eiated with the success of Gen. Bank’s campaign as he had opened up an immense track of country rich in southern Products such as cotton, Sugar &c and I think it is very encouraging as to the final Result. we are waiting to hear from Vicksburgh, Port 1-ludson and those places held by the Rebels on the Mississippi hopeing that they will all come into the possession of the U.S. Government soon, when that is accomplished I think that the Backbone of the south will be broken. I have felt quite encouraged of late at the general appearance of our position and I hope that I shall not have to alter my mind in that respect.
My dear I am glad to see you patriotic and I am ready to listen to your advice and anxious to receive it to show you that I love you and respect your opinion, do not hesitate to advise me if you think I need it but do not think that I would do anything disloyal. I am aware that the Democrats of the north are imprudent in their utterances but I hope that they would not do anything really treasonable. I intend to have as little to do with politics as possible if I return home arid let those who wish to win notoriety get it as best they may.
the children I presume are enjoying their vacation as children only can do. I sometimes tremble when I think that [am the only stay and provider that my family has got but I trust that God will provide the means at any rate repining will never do it I feel just as if I should like to be engaged in some business at home that would give us a support. if I could only do as some can, use my abilities to the best advantages but time must tell. You remember my dear our western tour that did not turn out much did it but I hope that I learned something by it and that was to live more economically. I would that I could gather my experience without your having to share in the hardships. how do you get along with your new teeth? have you got them in yet and how do you like them? you of course will give me a history when you write. I never have received a letter from Fannie or one of the rest of the Familie but you. I should think that they would take interest enough in me to write one letter but I must be satisfied with you and the children.
well my darling I must begin to make calculations that I am on the last page. take courage dear the time will not last forever and I hope that we may have some years of happiness together yet. if it is the means of learning me to appreciate you properly I shall think that it is time well spent and I am inclined to think that I shall profit by it somewhat, how strange it will seem to be able to enjoy the comforts of a home once more and not to feel that I caimot stir without permission. it is against the law to advise any one against the service but I shall keep out of it myself if I once get out. now my dear wife I cannot say anything but that I love you dearly and look forward to the time when I can call you mine truly
from your loving Husband
J.D. Bishop
