1862 January 12 from Jos. D. Richardson (Camp Clay, Ohio) to Mother (Hannah Richardson) re: reports he received her letter of the 2nd on the 10th and says that many soldiers had colds, but now have straw and two blankets tosleep on and woolen mittens. Asks her to give his love to all the folks in Beverly especially the girls. Reports about the good food he has. Says that Edward Venable received word that his wife is dead, to be buried this day and is distressed that he can't go to the funeral. Asks to tell Aunty that he now takes her place in the spread of plasters and treating sore throats with ginger tea and asks for another bottle of ginger. Says that Bladensburg [Maryland near Washington, D.C.] is next destination for there are three large forts [Forts Washington, Foote, Lincoln] there. There will be another big battle in Virginia soon. In the tent with him are John Davis, John Wright, Bill Baker and Riley Letts (apparently all from Beverly). [no envelope] [Camp Clay was a training camp for Union soldiers]