Ft. Trumbull Conn.

July 15, 1861

My dear Ellie,

I left West Point on the 3rd inst. and have been in this vicinity since, busy in dispatching the officers of my Regiment in recruiting service and just so soon as I get them fairly underway will take a ride on to Phila. to see you: the exact time when I will be there I cannot say but probably the end of this week.

I would, of course, have preferred the Artillery Arm of Service, but could not refuse the promotion offered me under any circumstances, much less at this time, when the government has a right to my services in any capacity.

I will be in command of the Regt, as the Col. (Stone) is in Washington comdg. a brigade of Volunteers, a very handsome command in its respect at any time.

Jim wrote me about Mrs. Coleman having succeeded in getting North and I was very glad to learn that she had been enabled to do so with her children. We have just rec'd today the news of Gen'l McClellan's victories and hope they are the harbingers of ultimate triumph and enduration of the constitution of our Fathers.

With much love to all believe

me, your affectionate Brother

John F. Reynolds

Miss Ellie Reynolds

Lancaster

Pa.