Little Rock, Ark. Jan. 20th, 1864 Dear Father This evening finds me seated at our writing desk along with Anson my chum and Mahlon. Anson and myself are both writing to the loved ones at home while Mahlon is resting his weary limbs after coming off picket. Through the goodness of our Heavenly Father we are all well and in good spirits. Truly the Lord is good even unto us. While many of our comrades are sick and dying daily, we though unworthy are well, enjoying life and many other blessings of this life. I feel greatly unworthy of these blessings but the greatest desire of my heart is to serve Him aright. I sometimes think that I am unworthy of the name "Christian" but the prayer of my heart tonight is "Lord teach me to be a true Christian". We are having some good meetings here now. Soldiers are enlisting in God's service. Some eight or ten were forward for prayers the night before last. Most of them testified that Jesus was their Savior. It seems like home to attend such meetings. I do not know what the preachers' names are that carry on the meetings. They are agents of the Christian Commission in this place, they are truly good men. The Christian Commission is carried on well in this place. Soldiers can get almost anything they need in the shape of potatoes and onions etc. as well as paper and other reading matter. We are allowed to go there and write and everything is found us. Mahlon received a letter tonight from his sister stating that she had not received that money ($5) dollars that he sent in my letter by Cap. Smith. He wishes to know what you have done with it. If you did not send it to her please send it to her or let me know and I will pay Mahlon. Let me know which way you prefer doing as soon as you can for I think she needs it. If you send it to her, direct to Mrs. J.W. Harrison, Whitewater, Walworth Co., Wis. I wrote in one of the girls letters for some butter. It will be very acceptable if you have it. Lieut. Hebberd received fifty lbs. from home a short time ago. It adds much to our rations. I have received one letter from you since you went to Iowa. Please write soon and tell Mother to write. Remember me to all the friends in Iowa. Kiss the children for me. How I should love to kiss them myself tonight. I am waiting patiently for the good time to come when I may be with you. Seven months will soon pass (courage). I believe this rebellion is near ended. What think you about it? Mahlon sends his respects to all also Kenyon. I must close. Hoping to hear from you soon. Your son Lewis E. Bloodgood