Barrier assures his father that he is in good health, and that he actually weighs five pounds more than he has ever weighed before. He is busy these days; he's been filling in for his orderly sergeant, who is sick. Many men have the mumps, Barrier says, though none are critically ill. Enclosed with the letter were a pen knife and some candy for Luther Moose, his nephew. He reports receiving a letter from Rufus, his brother, dated 23 January 1862, stating that he and his regiment were well, though they were expecting an attack.