Saltville March 14 1864
Dear James
I arrived here
safely with Ellen a few days since.
Bell joined us at Wytheville. I
have all of my little family together again.
I presume you have heard ere this of the law passed by the Legislature
to impress more of our saltworks. I
think it was altogether unjustifiable, but will endeavor to demean myself
becomingly nevertheless.
I was a little
surprised at the course of your friend Shackleford. Please do not let him know that you do not think less of him for
his course towards me.
I take
pleasure in introducing to you Mr. Wm. Buchanan, the eldest son of Mr. B.K.
Buchanan my partner. He is past
eighteen & starts in a day or two to join Litchfield’s cavalry. He is an amiable and a reliable young man,
and comes of first rate stock. If you
have it in your power to show him any kindness or attention, you will lay me
with his parents & other friends under obligations to you.
Very truly
W. A. Stuart
N.B. We are looking for Sister Flora out soon.