Camp 3d Column near West Spring
Two miles from Fort Fauntleroy
[New Mexico Territory]

Dec 17th, 1860 [Monday]

When you have read the report, please send it to WmR. to whom I intend writing so soon as I have time - I wish to ask his advice as to the course I should pursue, if Georgia seceeds from the Union. My present idea is to go with my State as a matter of course. To offer my services as a military man and a native born and do all in my power to keep the Union dissolved. If your State should not join the Southern Union I suppose you would ask for a separation, because of a difference of political opinions. If you should if you have made up your mind to it. Let me know before about, and I will endeavor to fortify my mind to the chances of fate. Of course I will have first choice for the children, and will take the one that leaves me best and has been the best behaved, so you will be a party to the choice. Great will be the tribulation and many the heart breakings. But be prepared for the struggle. I certainly will not be in the Northern Confederacy and let me beg of you, not to prejudice the children beforehand. Good bye. I will keep on writing as the opportunity offers. Will write tomorrow & next day.