Camp in the Field   Va -
	Near Spottsylvania Court House
	May 21st 1864
	Head Quarters 14th Mass. Battery

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.