Wheeler, Lysander, 1837-1917 to his parents, [brother-in-law], and sister

Reports that Hiram Wright has been taken to the hospital with small pox and expects that he will come down with it pretty badly. Writes that he has been appointed cook for the week and discusses what he's had for dinner. He explains that the men in his tent take turns cooking; each one is given a one week appointment. Writes that rumors of [William H.] Wyman (of Co. B, Ill. 105th) were mistaken. Updates his brother-in-law, Darius, on the conditions of some of the soldiers they know mutually. Complains about the intensity of the rain and how much noise it makes. Writes that there is still some talk of moving to Gallatin. General Paine wants the regiment to move forward but General Ward is opposed to it. Wheeler remarks that he would rather the regiment stay with the brigade in Nashville.
Continues the letter on the morning of Thursday, December 17, 1863. Writes that some of the soldier's wives have been visiting for a few weeks. Remarks that he wouldn't want "his women" coming to visit if he were sick, so they should take a hint and stay home. He writes that he always has plenty of coffee and jokingly remarks that the Rebels wanted to get into Knoxville just for the coffee. Informs his family that Lincoln's message to Congress was read before the brigade who responded with several rounds of rifle and canon fire. Hopes that some of their prisoners will be exchanged at Richmond soon. Of the prisoner exchange he comments: " if they want the niggers they may keep then for all [me] it is keeping too many white men, shut up for a pack of niggers."