Writes to let his family know that he arrived safely in Helena, Arkansas, and that the army has crossed the Mississippi River. Gives detailed description of setting up camp, pitching tents and preparing for guard duty along the river. Damuth is in command of twenty-seven men on the look out for guerrilla Rebel soldiers. Tells a story about a Black mule driver who was forced to give up his team and wagon to Damuth's colonel. Mentions that there are "20000 more [men] across the river at Helena and more coming every day." There are few other troops from Wisconsin. Rumors have been circulating among the men that they are headed for Vicksburgh, and Damuth's opinion is optimistic - "I think we can clean them out good." Tells his family that he wishes they were able to see all the things they have been hearing of in the news, but adds that "the country is a hard looking place and the people looked as if they were half starved." Mentions the anticipation of the Emancipation Proclamation and that enslaved people are aware that will come to pass. Requests that his family send a paper with election results.