I have a letter written by D. M. Averill to Myron David Orr (Tuscola Village, now Caro, Michigan) on Oct. 18, 1863 from Loudon, TN. He ends his letter by writing, "Our Regiment is stationed on the south side of the River, 7 companies of which are building log houses for winter upon the summit of a commanding hill. 2 companies (A&F) are about 500 yards distant near Capt. Henshaw's Battery to support that in case of an attack. The other Co. (H) is doing Provost Duty in town & guarding the Pontoon Bridge which has been built by our troops since we came here. My health is good now, better I think than it had been at any other time since I have been in service. How are times in Tuscola now? I wish you would tell me how all hands are getting along. Have any soap mines been discovered lately? If so do they pay for working?
Please write soon as convenient & greatly oblige your old friend.
D.M. Averill
P.S. Direct to Lieut. D.M. Averill
Co. F 23rd Reg Mich Vols
2nd Brig. 2nd Div, 23rd A.P.
Cincinnati, Ohio