To Annie Claiborne, 20 October 1851
Smithland Ky
20th. Oct 1851
Dear Annie,
I reached here at 10 Oclock today having had a tolerably good time in the mud I feel very tired I assure you, for so much unaccustomed exercise. Last night I had the worst time of the whole way. I stopped at Russ’ ferry 12 miles from here after dusk; I could get nothing to eat, save a slice of bacon I boiled myself and a piece of hoe cake & coffee made by the recruits, no sleep because I had to lie in a single feather bed of about 3 pounds and the cords of course were uncomfortable but I am so glad to get here without delay or loss that I over look these little inconveniences
I hope to get off in two or three hours for Cairo, and thence I look for a speedy arrival at Jefferson Barracks—none of my men have deserted so far. I keep too sharp a look out on them.
I do hope & pray that you are now entirely well; this is all that troubles are I can not but feel distressed at being absent from you when you are sick. Do take care of yourself & pay attention to your diet. I expect to find you entirely well on my return and depend upon it I shall not stay away a single unnecessary day. I think of you constantly, you seem dearer than ever to me, and you already know how well I love you. I would write you a longer letter but I have to look constantly after my men, & they bother me a great deal.
I managed to get me seven or eight hounds on the road. I saw Lucy’s mother at Hopkinsville; they are all well. The weather was good, all the way except today, it is cold & cloudy, threatening rain.
My face is dreadfully sun burnt & I feel ugly enough. I tell you.
Love to Mary and Harriet and all the family. To Ma & all her family. send them word. Take excellent care of yourself my dear wife
I ever yours only
Th. Claiborne.