David Levy Yulee to his Wife
21 October 1864
Transcription by Jennifer Amy

Gainesville     October 21, 1863

My Dear Nan

I wrote you yesterday by the train which carried Capt. Clarkes Co. - And as another train starts this morning for Bayport I write this to take its chances, hoping it may find its way into Homosassa.

Yesterday I informed you that Lee had fought Meade at the old Manassas routing him and capturing several thousand prisoners, but particulars had not been received, and that Wheeler had returned from his expedition over the Tennessee having made large destruction of wagon and RR trains, military stores, bridges etc. To what I said yesterday I have to add that a dispatch was received last evening stating that Gen. Dick Taylor, old Zack's son, had captured Banks with his staff and his whole army. If this is so it is an accumulation of good Providences which almost makes one tremble. By the train that leaves here Saturday I will be able to let you know how much of all these good things the sober second reports confirm.

It is promised me that the legal matters shall be tried this week - and I am keeping Peter in the hope I can start down. I am very anxious upon the fish question. It is evident that the country will be swept of beef and the govt seizes all the hogs. Both beef and bacon will be difficult to be got at any price, if the war lasts. Our main reliance will have to be upon the fish we put up - and which can be exchanged for bacon. It is a cardinal object to put up at least 100 barrels. Give whatever directions to Mr. Banknight you may think necessary for this purpose. Let Russell and Isaac devote themselves with mamy and Peter to fishing - and let Wilson spend a few days with them to help organize. This is one reason of my anxiety to come down - namely to see to putting up fish. It is a very important matter.

Wick's banana paper is a complete success. The material is beautiful and graceful - and the writing was perfectly legible indeed the ink seemed blacker upon it, both as to Wicks and Mag's letters than upon the ordinary writing papers.

Tell Mag that I will answer her letter by the mail. I do not write Wick because I suppose he is on the way. Tho' I really wish Mr. Crane could have deferred his peregrinations until December. I am told the boys have got into the habit of wearing pistols and bowie knives - and that the school has been on the point of breaking up. Uncertain when this may reach you, I close.

Affectionately & devotedly yours,

D.L. Yulee

Mrs. D.L. Yulee