Smithland, Ky. Oct. 21, 1847
Dear Father,
I received your letter of yesterday, by Capt. Conn, which relieved me of a great deal of trouble, as I was uneasy about my Mother. But she is more consoled now than she was when you were here last, and I am in hopes will still continue to be so until I return, for there is no prospect of us remaining longer than next spring at the fartherest. Pen Scott has had another battle, the whole city is now in his possession, but with the loss of 1621 men killed, among whom was the gallant Twigs, and most of the officers who had distinguished themselves in the previous engagements were wounded. But as I have not the extras, I cannot give you their names. Santa Anna made a very narrow escape. The steamship Col. Clay left Smithland this evening on her first trip. She is destined for the Gulf. We don't know when we will leave, neither the Louisville nor Nashville volunteers have past yet. We have received our bounty money, there was $9.61 due Shipley, $9.30 of which I paid Noah Watkins. Shipley is working at his trade in camp. Ick Massey is very sick with the plurisy, Franklin is also very sick, but was better this morning. Tell Mother not to be uneasy about me. I will do the best I can and will write often. I will not write any more until we leave this place.
Your affectionate son,
John E. Mercer
Give my love to Mrs. Campbell