Letter from Nathaniel Harris to his wife and children, undated [ca. October 1862].

              Johnson Island, near Sandusky City, Ohio 
 Dear Wife and Children, 
 I haven't heard from you since I landed here.  I wrote 1 letter, but as I understand, the Rebels have cut off our communication.  I write this letter and will send it by a friend.  I am well and have got good quarter to stay in.  I send you a plate of this island and a ring.  I want you to have the potato husband field sowed in what and all of the field above Temples.  What you can't have sowed, rent the rest out, but be very careful about injuring the corn, where you have the wheat sowed.  I want you to be of good cheer and put your trust in God.  He can save us all.  Write to me as soon as you can get a letter through.  Tell Brother Green to do the best he can for you and not forget me.  You wrote to me at Camp Morton and wanted to know if I had any money.  I have money enough, I think, to do me as long as I stay here.  J.B. Munday is here.  Amburs Thomas is here and all is well and all expect to leave here soon.  Thomas Cook is here.  Give my love to all inquiring friends, to mother and father and all of the kind.  Nothing more at present, only remain your husband until death. 
 N. Harris 
 NB I send Jenny Green the small brass[?] pin and you the large one, made by me & Munday on Johnson Island. 
 N. Harris 
 [Corrected transcription]