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Camp Milton, Florida
June 16th 1864

My Darling Wife

I arrived here safe yesterday, things looks [sic] as natural as ever. I saw Genl. Anderson
[General James Patton Anderson] at Lake City, he wishes me to put what torpedoes is
here in the St. Johns. I expect to go in Broward's Neck in a few dayss. Two transports
loaded with white troops have gone out the river. It is rumored that all the white troops
are leaving Jacksonville. A scout came in last night and reports that the Yankees have
burnt Broward's place up and are driving cattle to Yellow Bluff- Some of our troops
have gone in the Neck. My Mother Darling are [sic] living in Jacksonville. She have
moved all from St. Augustine. Her idea I expect is when the Yankees leave she will
remain. I bought a good pair of Saddle Bags Darling in Lake City for thirty five dollars. I
got Darling for those nineteen yards of linen in Lake City fifty two yards homespun. It
was the best I could do. Mr. Forster was not in Lake City, he will be there soon I left
the money with Mr. Jeffreys who will attend to it for us. I gave the clothe [sic] to Mr.
Emerson who is going Saturday. My horse Darling is nearly well. Oh Darling how very
very [sic] much I do miss you all. I am anxious for the next four months to roll by, for I
am in hopes it will bring peace. I saw Lonie in Lake City, she was on a visit for a few
days. The Government is taken the iron up on the Femandina road for the Live Oak road
Send my fly (tent) Darling by Mr. Emerson. I need it, it rains every day. Sew three or
four stripes of clothe on each side to tie with. This place Darling is as not pleasantly
situated as Camp Fenigan [Finegan]- this is low and Swampy. I have heard it rumored
that Capt. [Captain] Tom Mickler was killed in Virginia. I hope it is not so. Remember
me to all at home. Kiss Emma a thousand times for me. I expect she misses the ride since
her pa is gone. I expect Darling the next letter you get from me will be from Broward's
Neck. You must not be uneasy if you do not get one for some time as I might not get the
opportunity soon. Write to me at this place. Goodbye My Darling for the present.

Your Affectionate Husband
Jacob E. Mickler


Transcribed by Nicole J. Milano, University of Florida, 2009