Tupelo, Miss.
July 4, 1864

My Dear Julia,

I seat myself this afternoon, to write you a few lines. I am Quite well at this time, and hope this will rind you and the children enjoying the same blessing. I have no news of interest to write you. We are all in camp here, near Tupelo, but I dont know what time we will start out after the yanks. They are reported to be at Lagrange, on the Ole C railroad. I would not be Surprised to start after them any day.

The news from Arkansas is cheering. Price Whipped them East of Little Rock and Pine Bluff, Johnston is still holding Sherman at bay. I see boys from there nearly every day. They say our boys are killing a great many of the Yanks and drive them back every time they advance.

I thought the other day we would have been on the road to Tennessee but the order was countermanded. I think we will go after a while.

Julia I have no news to write you now, as we have been in camp ever since our fight with Sturgis. I am writing to let you hear from me. I have been on Police Guard all day. I would have written you a long letter were it not for that, and I did not know that I would have an opportunity of sending your letter until this morning. I will expect a letter from you when Parson L. G. Lane returns. I am very impatient for him to get here. I think he's to be here on the 8th, July.

James Anojs Tenia Mitchel G. Gordon, Roof Gooch, and Capt. Gooch is ________ Mates. James Anojs is one of the best fellows I ever met with. He and I went into the fight together according to agreement, he's a good Soldier and a good boy in Camp. I think a good deal of Willis Small. He is very kind and accomadating to me. He will do anything almost that I want him to do. I am with Lewtesman Mangrum, Mollie Bumpases old man. He is quite a clever fellow. Captain Gooch was slightly wounded. I would give twenty dollars to see you now. It is late and I am still on guard so I will close by saying present kindest regards to your papa's family. I would like for him to get me a horse, but I would want a good one, for a sorry horse cant stand the racket. My little mare stand up very well, though I would like to have another good horse, larger than this. Give my best love to Martha and the children. Kiss my Mother for me. Kiss both Dick and Jesse, and the same to your self, my Dear Julia.

From your Cyrus Sykes

Write ever Chance you get, give my best respects to Mrs. Barry Clark and Ed.

(This furlough written on a scrap of ledger paper in pencil.)

Liut. C. Sykes has a furlough for 8 days, on account of important business at home, at the expiration of which he will report himself to the Commander of his Company.

(This letter and furlough submitted by Lena Mae Sykes Dees, 1278 Campbell, Jackson, Tn. 38301)

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