CAMP, 2nd APRIL, 1856
My dear Sister,
I have at length found a moment to write a few lines hoping they will find you in the blessed enjoyment of good health as thanks to Almighty God this leaves me.
I must tell you that we are very anxious for final news peace or war. The armistice has been prolonged until further orders and today there is a great rumour throughout the camp that peace has been proclained at home and what gives it a better colour there has been a salute fired all through the lines of positions. I hope myself that it is true for I think two years quite suffiecient for one spell of actual warfare although I hope the peace is woirthy of the name of such a blessing and of the valour of the British Army and also the Nations. Mind you I would have no humbug or patched up peace, for the British Army at present is fit to face any Army in the world, but if Russia comes to our terms I say then let us shake hands.
Since the Arnmistice began there is only the narrow river CHERNAYA between uis and the Russian soldiers, so we have been very polite one with the other, and exchanged coin do for small crosses &c by throwing over the river. Very few of the Russian soldiers come to the bank of the river - they are mostly officers. I suppose they are rather ashamed to show them as a body. They are shabbily dressed to what the allied army are and I suppose not in very good condition, although what few I saw appeared stout athletic fellows.
However I rather suspect they will not cross swords with us again heat for I almost think it will be peace now. You have no doubt heard of my promotion to the Land Transport Corps. I was pointed to the 15 Battalion, but I believe on account of peace that Battalion will not be rasied to that. I am at present attached to the first Auxiliary Squadron, consisting of Italian and Spaniards. None english but officers and 6 men, so I leave you you to guess my duties. If I was reamining long with them I should certainly try to pick uo the language. I have found out that peace was signed 30 March, so i hope soon to be on the road home.
My love to all at home. Having nothing more to add this time I must conclude and remain,
Your ever affectionate brother Tom.
Thos MITCHELL,
Adjutant,
Land Transport Corps,
CRIMEA
(NOT AN ACCURATE TRANSCRIPTION)