Samuel writes to his brother Edward, mainly discussing the Union's failure at Bull Run and the impressive turnout of the Confederate forces. Samuel notes that the businesses in Pepperell appear "dead" except for the occupation of "soldiering." Samuel also states that the "old Sixth"--presumably the Massachusetts 6th Volunteer Infantry (Militia), which he mustered out of earlier in the month--is trying to reorganize to help fill the 5,000 soldier quota ordered by Union Major General Benjamin Butler. In passing, Samuel mentions he is with Uncle and Aunt Bolles, the latter of whom is the sister of Samuel's mother, Mary (Russell) Payne.
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