My Dear Wife

I received a letter yesterday from Hon. Stephen M. Weld of West Roxbury, or I should say rather Jamaica Plain inquiring about a boy named Burns, who is my private servant – Will you have the kindness to call on Mr. Weld for me, and say to him that the boy is in my employ and suits me very well – I give him his board and clothing, and five dollars a month, as compensation for his services – The boy is willing to have three fourths of his wages sent home to his father - If Mr. Weld desires it, the money will be sent on pay day, to his address, for the father of the boy. Please ascertain for me the circumstances of the boy’s family –

My dear Wife, you seem from your letter to me to be in some want of ready money – I have but five dollars & some odd change with me, and that is in the baggage wagon (to use a Paddyism) some five miles distant – As soon as we get paid off, I will send you, what I can – It may be some weeks yet before we get paid off, as this campaign against Richmond will have to be finished first – If you desire it, I will write to Grandfather to advance you money enough to keep along with, until I can send you some –

My love to all – Kiss the children for me and tell Sammie I captured a secesh pony for him yesterday, but as he went lame, I left him behind – I shall have to try again for him –

We are now in line of Battle, in front of the Rebel position, and hold the Army Centre –

Ever your affect. Husband
Joseph

A note on the back fold:
I gave Charley Monroe a picture of myself on horseback to give you –
Did you get it?
S.J.B.

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Mrs. Samuel J. Bradlee
No 96 Brighton St.
Boston, Mass.