My gg-grandfather did the 7 month vacation at Spa Camp Douglas in 1862. He officially deserted Co. B, 50th TN in late Dec. 1862 at Grafton, MS. He could have sat out the War (not likely) or perhaps.......he joined up with Captain Hinson! Anyway, I have his group photo at the Confederate reunion in Humboldt, TN.

Same goes for your ancestor.

Joe