While working in the Georgia Archives recently, I found copies of three letters written by John Henry James Knowles. I was lucky enough to view and photograph the original letters written in 1862. The first of the three letters was written from Savannah, Georgia on May 14, 1862. I have retained the actual spelling and capitalization, but have added some punctuation at the end of sentences to make the letter easier to read.
Camp [page torn] Savannah Ga
May 14 1862
Dear Mag
I embrace the opportunity of drafting you a few lines to inform you that I am Better off than I was when I left. my Cof [cough] is Better But I have got a verry Bad diree [diarrhea] not as Bad as Som. hoping these few lines may find you well and all the rest of the family. I received your letter and was verry glad to hear from you all – to heare that hap[hole] is Still mending. I hope he will get [B]etter till he gets well. I am Better Sadisfid than I was before I went home. we have very Bad water to drink But I do not think we will well Stay rite heare long tha we may. I am verry Sorry that I did not Bring my surrip [syrup] for I do want it very Bad. if you cold get a good chance to get it to the offis I would like for you to Send it. if you would Send it rite off. the potatoes would cost more than they would Be worth & you need not to send them I can Mag. when you rite Direct your letter to Savannah in care of Capt Wm. A McDonald the 26 rigment twenty sixt rigment & I will get it. rite all the nuse rite how the crop is getting along and all the people. I can inform you that I Sent twenty dollars to macon to By thred. I do not Know what it will cost But I want you to [hole]ep [illegible] [blot]ch of __ as you want & Jasper to Sell the rest. I have not got it yet But I look for it to morrow. I Sent by John Cason for it. 5 bunches is going to Wm Smith he Sent By me for that much. You need not be uneasy. I feel I Shal get well Rite to me often as you can and let me know how you are getting along. So I will close by Saying nothing more at present But remains yours til death. John H. J. Knowles
