Notes he received her letter. Says he does not remember "Zidens," but thinks that he would recognize him if he saw him. Believes those who participated in the Confederate army will be heavily punished. Reports that there is a lot of discontent running through the army, however, he feels that the importance of the military to the nation's existence "changes the hard toil … into a pleasant 'duty.'" Says he is no longer in the Signal Corps, but rather in active duty, stationed between his old Camp and the Army Head Quarters, close to the rebel camps. Mentions he received a letter from Keyes, who is doing well. Notes that both armies are now within close proximity of each other, but have not attacked because they are in their "winter quarters." Says they will not make a move until [General Ulysses] Grant arrives. Describes the cold winter weather and wishes that summer would come soon.