The following letter, bordered in black, was written by Simeon Draper (1806-1866), the Collector of Customs at New York, a week after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. He wrote the letter to the Hon. William Pitt Fessenden, who as Secretary of the Treasury in the Lincoln Administration had been instrumental in securing Draper the coveted patronage post in 1864. As a successful businessman and the former chairman of the New York State Republican Party, Draper enjoyed the support of Secretary of State Seward and was at the center of New York’s business, political, and social scene. Not everyone in Lincoln’s cabinet thought favorably of Draper, however. Gideon Wells believed him to be swindler and in fact, a post-war investigation revealed that Draper was guilty of diverting some of the proceeds of the confiscated cotton from the U.S. Treasury to his personal use. It’s believed that when Lincoln wished to remove Draper from the post, Seward “wouldn’t let the President do it.” Draper was finally replaced as the Collector in August 1865 by Preston King—the “intimate friend and constant companion” of Andrew Johnson.
Fessenden was named Lincoln’s Secretary of the Treasury upon the resignation of Salmon P. Chase in 1864. He held the post for only eight months and then returned to the United States Senate. Though he disliked Andrew Johnson, he disliked the idea of impeachment and was one of the few Republicans who voted for Johnson’s acquittal—a position that alienated him from the party he had helped to form in the 1850s.
Transcription
New York April 22, 1865
My Dear Sir,
I have not had a moment to write you since I came home and now have nothing to say worthy of your attention. The dreadful event which band my paper in black has upset all one’s thoughts and left us in contemplation of the great and uncertain passages which mortals are called to explore. I have in more moments than I can tell you thought of you with grateful feelings and zealous devotion. I have often wished I could see you that I might talk over matters and learn from you whether I have the power to serve you or yours. I will by & bye take a run otherwise Portland and see you. Perhaps you will take a little sea air in July or August in one of the cutters.
I am going to Charleston tomorrow to dig out the cotton there under the donation of the Secretary of the Treasury. I hope, pray, and intend to vindicate your kindness and confidence and pray you to command me freely.
Sgt. James L. Sutton, Co. G, 150th New York Vols. (Paul Rusinoff Collection)
The following letters were written by James L. Sutton (1825-1895) who enlisted on 12 September 1862 when he was 37 years old at Poughkeepsie to serve as a sergeant in Co. G, 150th New York Volunteers. He was promoted to 1st Sergeant on 10 November 1864 and mustered out with his company on 8 June 1865.
The 150th New York participated in Sherman’s Atlanta campaign about the beginning of May and took an important and honorable part in many of the great battles of that memorable campaign, including Resaca, Cassville, Dallas, Kennesaw mountain, Peachtree creek and the siege of Atlanta. The casualties of the regiment aggregated 100 killed and wounded during the 4 months’ fighting from Tunnel Hill to Atlanta. On Nov. 15, 1864, the regiment started on the march to the sea with Sherman, and in December was actively engaged in the siege of Savannah, losing 20 killed, wounded and missing. The following year it embarked on the campaign through the Carolinas, being sharply engaged at the battle of Averasboro and losing a few men at Bentonville. On the close of this campaign it marched on to Washington, where it took part in the grand review, and was mustered out there on June 8, 1865.
These four letters take us from the trenches before Atlanta, to the occupancy of Atlanta, the occupancy of Savannah, to the surrender of Johnston’s army and President Lincoln’s assassination. They are from the private collection of Paul Russinoff and were made available for transcription and publication on Spared & Shared by express consent.
In the trench near Atlanta Thursday, July 28th, 1864
Dear Sister and Brother,
Yours of the 12th was received the 21st. I was very happy to hear from you. It seemed a very long time since your last. Dear sister, it is pleasant to know, situated as we are in the army, that kind friends at home feel an interest in us, and often think about and pray for our safety.
We have had a very long and tedious campaign. We have been moving about since April 25th—over three months. We are dirty and weary, but there is rest ahead. We are within 2 miles of Atlanta and some of our lines nearer than that. We are drawing the lines tighter every day. If they leave the city, I think we shall remain there some time for rest.
We have had some hard fighting since I last wrote you, and very many have fallen. Our Corps and Division have lost quite heavy. Yet in the kind Providence of God! I am still preserved and in good health. We are but a short distance from a Rebel fort. They have a very good range of our works. They shell us quite often, doing a good deal of damage, killing some and wounding others. We have batteries just above us which replies to theirs, and sometimes we have quite an artillery fight—all shot and shell going over our heads, making us keep our heads low, as some of them burst very near us, the pieces flying all around us. Add to this, the Reb sharp shooters just in good shooting distance keep firing at us day and night, much to our annoyance. The skirmishers of both armies are in sight of where we lie. There was two dwellings and barn a short distance from us. The Johnnies were in there shooting at us. We could not get them away. Our batteries tried to fire the buildings with shell. They would pass through them making boards and shingles fly, but could not fire them.
Yesterday Morning the 13th [New] Jersey went up there, driving the skirmishers back and firing the buildings. It was a grand sight as we could see the whole of it where we lie. They brought in some 30 prisoners. One little fellow came along with a great, long-legged Johnnie by the neck, pushing him along. The 13th lost 2 killed and about 7 wounded. They accomplished a great deal as they found out the position of the Rebs. Just now a ball passed just over our heads, making us dodge down and lie low. I will be glad when we get out of this. We have been under fire most of the time now for about two weeks.
I received a letter from Charlie a few days ago. They were well. You think us better off than the Army of the Potomac. In many respects we are, and in some we are not. We have considerable rain and as a general thing, plenty of water. Yet it is more difficult to get food and clothing. As for vegetables, we get no sight at them, and if a man is wounded here, he cannot get the care he can in Virginia as it is so far from the hospital. Then if one is killed, he has to be buried as we cannot get him away.
We have two batteries here in our breastworks. The Rebs are throwing up works in sight of us. Our battery just opened and knocked it—as the printer would say—into pie. You talk about flies. If you could see what we have here, you would think we had just a few. Please write often. I will let you know when we get into Atlanta. My love to all. Yours affectionately, — James L. Sutton
Letter 2
Atlanta [Georgia] September 29th 1864
Dear Brother & Sister,
Yours of August 21st was duly received. I was very happy to hear from you and to know you were well. Of course you know all about our entrance into the city where we still remain and I hope at least we shall be able to remain here all winter as we are very pleasantly situated. There is considerable sickness in our regiment. Quite a good deal of chills and fever. Last week two of our regiment died and on Wednesday of this week one of our company we buried. Our numbers has diminished a great deal. There were some 40 recruits came to our regiment last week and there are some 200 more on the way. We shall be quite a regiment yet.
We fare better as regards provisions while we are in camp. We get some soft bread. Also occasionally onions which we prize very highly. We can get fruit of no kind here. How we would like some nice fruits such as apples and peaches. But it is some comfort in the thought that [we] give up all these enjoyments for the good of our country. Then again it almost makes the soldier sick and disheartened when he hears of the doings of the men [in the] North—if we can call them men. Those who would gladly today give the South all they ask for and throw us back where we started from. Such men ought to be banished from the country as not fit to live in it. Our country has cost too much. There has been too many lives sacrificed to give up now as we are near the end as I believe we are. Rather than give up with the object not accomplished, I would rather stay for three years longer. But I trust the time is not far distant when this cruel war will be ended—when peace and prosperity shall again dwell in all our land and when we shall be a free and happy people—a people who shall acknowledge there is a God that rules this universe.
There are a few furloughs granted—5 per 100 men—but most that have applied have been disapproved for some cause, I know not why. It is so very far, costs so much time 20 days, and my friends so scattered it would hardly be beneficial for me to come home at present as my stay would be short I could hardly have time to say how do you do and goodbye. I suppose your church is getting along finely, nearly completed. I hope to worship with you there yet. It ay not be so yet I will try so to live that we shall meet in the great assemblage of the just, where war and discord are never known.
Thomas George Courtland is here in the Commissary Department. He often enquires about Fanny. Remember me to all. Affectionately yours, — James L. Sutton
Letter 3
Savannah, Georgia January 13th 1865
Dear Brother & Sister,
I have been waiting since lying here to receive a mail from some of my friends but as yet have waited in vain. I received yours while lying in front of Savannah and also a pair of woolen gloves for which I thank you. They came in good time as the day after was quite cold. We were then on A____ Island.
I suppose you saw the letter I sent to Hannah Bush so I will commence where I left off there. Part of our Brigade went over on the South Carolina shore and drove the rebs back from the river. We be in reserve on the island. One man in 3d Wisconsin Regiment [was] killed. This was on the 19th of December. On the morning of the 20th, our regiment crossed on South Carolina soil. Today a man in Co. H [was] killed on the skirmish line. Also one in Co. C had a leg amputated by a shell. He died in a few hours. We went on the skirmish line the night of the 20th.
21st—This morning our troops entered the city. We can see plenty of Johnnies where we are. We are to leave here and go back into Georgia. We started this afternoon. The regiments were to cross the river but the boats could not cross as the wind blew very hard and when we fell back, the Rebs following us, we had quite a warm time. Col. Ketcham was wounded in the groin. He is doing well.
We made out to get over on the island. The wind blew nearly all the water out of the river so we had to wade part of the way, our boats getting aground and the weather being quite cold. We arrived 1 mile from the city where we encamped, built shanties, laid out streets, stayed about 1 week, moved camp near the city, built new shanties. Our men are now working in forts in the city. We had a review in the city before Gen. Sherman. We are expecting to move at any time but where, we do not know. I expect we shall have another campaign—perhaps to Charleston. Then on to Richmond.
Our time is growing short as we are but nine months men now. Some of our men talk of reenlisting in the Navy as they offer 1400 dollars bounty and 60 days furlough home at the commencement of the year, then 30 days each year. They have to enlist for five years. I think I will wait until I have been free for a time at least before I enlist. I think I have done pretty well to give three years service.
I hear Col. John H. Ketcham is Brigadier General. He is worthy of the place. I hope he will remain with our brigade. I have been all through the city. It is quite a large city. Some very nice buildings. I tried all over to get a few notions such as a handkerchief and a few other things but there is nothing we can get. The rebels must have taken everything with them.
My health remains very good for which I am truly thankful. I should like very much to come and see you all but must wait patiently till the time arrives. Please write soon. Remember me to all enquiring friends. I remain as ever yours, — James L. Sutton
P. S. I send you a couple of papers that are printed in this city. They are selling for ten cents here in camp. We have another just started called The Herald.
Letter 4
Raleigh, [North Carolina] April 20th, 1865
Dear Brother & Sister,
Your last was received March 30th. I was very happy to know you were all well. I should have written sooner but as we were to move very soon, I thought best to wait until we reached our destination.
We started April the10th from Goldsboro (in the afternoon). We had some skirmishing with Johnnies, two killed [and] a few wounded. We reached Smithfield on the night of the 11th. Here we heard of the surrender of Lee’s army. It was a time of rejoicing with the boys. Shout after shout went up. Caps, shirts, coats, sticks, and anything in reach were seen flying in air. But this did not stop our march. We started at 6 a.m., marching 13 miles. Here we stopped at 5 p.m. Orders to get supper, then resume the march. But while we were strengthening the inner man and resting the outer, fortune smiled on the weary and the order was revoked so we camped for the night. Starting at 6 a.m. intending to be the first troops in the city, but the 14th Corps started at about 1 in the morning so they cut us off, reaching the city about 1 hour in advance. They had no opposition as Kilpatrick was in advance. The officials coming out of the city and surrendering it so that nothing was destroyed.
We arrived at Raleigh at noon, the 13th of April. We are camped about 1 mile from the city.
Gen. Johns[t]on wished to surrender his army to Gen. Sherman but Sherman wanted something more. He wished to make a clean sweep of it at one blow so it took a number of days to accomplish it but it came at last and the whole Confederacy has gone up. But while we are rejoicing in the success of our army, we are called to mourn the death of our President—the great head of the Nation has fallen. But woe to the men at whose hands he has been assassinated. Better for them if they had never been born. What will not these rebels stoop to? Thank God their time is out—their race is run. But what ruin and desolation has followed in their footsteps. May God forgive them freely as the President & Generals have, as unworthy as they are to live.
We are in good health and in good spirits, hoping in a few weeks to arrive safe at home when once there to live a different life than the soldier can live. Until that time, I must bid you goodbye, hoping soon to see you all. Remember me to all the friends. Yours, &c. — James L. Sutton
The following letter was written by a member of the 14th Ohio Infantry who signed his name “Albert” but I am unable to state with certainty his identity. There were few soldiers by that name in the regiment but I cannot place any of them in Lake county, Ohio before the war. We know from the content he was a veteran who has served a full four years in the war. There is an outside possibility it was Capt. Albert Moore of Co. A. I transcribed another letter by him some time ago and there is a similarity in the hand writing.
Albert wrote the letter to Clara Teresa Ensign of Madison, Lake county, Ohio. He addressed her as “cousin” but we learn from the letter that he does not believe they are actually related.
The letter contains a commentary on President Lincoln’s assassination.
Transcription
Camp of the 14th Ohio April 29th 1865
Dear Cousin Clara,
Your kind and truly welcome favor of the 16th inst. has just come to hand and I hasten to write a few lines in reply to it. Your letter found me lying in my tent, some six miles from the city of Raleigh, North Carolina. I am in the best of health and spirits as we are now on our way home. Home sweet home. There is no place like home.
We started yesterday morning on our homeward bound march. We are to lay here until Monday morning (this is Saturday afternoon) and then start for Richmond, Virginia. From there we go to Washington D. C. and from there—home. How long it will take us to reach Washington is more than I can tell. It is something over three hundred miles from here. Quite a walk, isn’t it? What would you think about it if you had to walk that distance? I don’t like the idea of marching clear to Washington but I don’t see how I am to help it. I might perhaps go to the doctor and “play off” but my health has always been too good for that “dodge” to work so I guess I shall have to go by the way of “Fast and Walker’s line.” Not a bad line after all. I have traveled a great many miles by that line since you saw me on the snow drifts. I recollect the day perfectly well. I also recollect of passing two ladies but little did I then think that one of them would ever be a correspondent of mine, or that she was a cousin to me. How do you know but what I did “fall in love” with you that day? What’s what I’d like to know. But if I didn’t, then perhaps I may when I become acquainted with you which I hope will be before snow flies again. And I think it will be for I mean to be at home by the 4th of July. I have spent four 4th of July’s in the service and I am in hopes that the 5th one will be spent at home, or at least where I choose to go. That will be where there’s fun going on, you may bet. Oh! Be sure, I mean, I forget that young ladies don’t bet. So much for being a soldier so long. I have forgotten most all I ever did know. But it isn’t much of a loss for it want much no how.
The death of our beloved President caused universal and heartfelt sorrow through the entire army. The soldiers all think it was a plot laid by the leading men of the rebellion and their threats of vengeance were not loud but deep. If there had been any fighting to do after that, it would have been terrible work, for no prisoners would have [been] taken. They would have made short work with all that came into their power. Vengeance will surely overtake the murderer if years roll around before he is taken.
So you will tell me all about the affairs when I get home, will you? Well, I will take your word for it as I expect soon to be there and then I shall have a talk with the girl and find out all about “Ezeri” and “George” and perhaps something of “Carlton.” Quite a string of names. Clara! I have a favor to ask of you and that is to send me your photo. Will you do it? If you will, I will send you mine if you desire it, just as soon as I can get some taken, which may not be before I get home. But you shall have a copy then if you wish it. I have an album and can keep it first rate. I have just room for it. Some time when you come over to see Allie after I get home, perhaps I will show it to you. It is gay. I am happy to hear that Allie was able to go to school again. I received a letter from her today with one of her compositions enclosed. She does pretty well for a girl. The boys here in the tent have tipped over the inkstand and are raising “Ned” so that I can half write so I will close for this time and I dare say that you are tired of reading my nonsense by this time. Please write as often as you conveniently can and I will answer all your letters promptly. The longer they are and the oftener they come, the better. Ever your sincere friend and “cousin”—Albert
I could not find an image of Edwin but here is one of William Sawin who also served as an Asst. Surgeon in the 2nd Vermont Infantry (Photo Sleuth)
The following letters were written by Edwin R. Brush (1836-1908) who was drafted into the service on 17 July 1863 as a private in Co. H, 2nd Vermont Infantry and three months later was promoted to Assistant Surgeon of the regiment.
Brush graduated from the University of Vermont at Burlington in 1858 and took over the medical practice of his father, Dr. Salmon Brush (1804-1887) in Cambridge, Lamoille county, Vermont. Edwin wrote the letters to his wife, Amy R. Brush (1836-1915).
Edwin was with the regiment from the time they fought at Rappahannock Station in November 1863 through the Battle of Sailor’s Creek in April 1865. In one letter, he describes the mood of the army following the assassination of President Lincoln and shares portions of conversations he’s had with rebel soldiers going home following Lee’s surrender.
Letter 1
Addressed to Mrs. E. R. Brush, Cambridge, Vermont
Petersburg, Va. January 5th 1865
Dear Amy,
I received yours of the 28th of December night before last and should have answered it yesterday but I had to go on picket and so you see could not do so. Was very glad to learn that you and Nettie were well and hope you will continue so.
I am glad to know that Charley Brush is at home on a visit, Hope he will enjoy it and that his health will improve, He must have had a very hard time while he was a prisoner. The rebels say that they feed and care for their prisoners of war the same as they do for their soldiers but I do not believe it as no man could do a soldier’s duty on the ration that they prisoners say their receive. That they receive an insufficient supply of food and clothing, there is no doubt for what everybody says is pretty apt to be true and I have yet to see or hear of a man that has been a prisoner who does not say that he suffered for the want of proper and sufficient food.
We have been having another cold snap. Night before last it commenced snowing and two or three inches of snow fell when it cleared off cold. And last night was a pretty cold one but it is some warmer today. But I think it will be quite cool after sundown.
There is not much of interest here. There is the usual quiet along the lines. No firing in our immediate front but the usual amount on our right and more or less deserters coming in. The rebels are losing a great many by desertion. In fact, they are very cautious who they send on picket. One fellow came in who said he was one of the trusty ones whom they could trust on picket. He said he left his gun standing guard while he came visiting.
We can see the suburbs of Petersburg from our picket lines and the lead works near the city.
Our folks are building some quite strong forts near here. It would trouble the Johnnies now to get to our works. We have two lines of abatis in front of us that would take a man half an hour to get over if left alone except at the places left open on purpose and we have cannon planted to rake them in all directions. I believe a strong skirmish line would hold three lines of battle with the help of artillery.
I shall write to Mary soon if nothing happens more than I know of. Gove my regards to all friends. Yours affectionately, — Edwin
Letter 2
Near Petersburg, Virginia March 4th 1865
Dear Amy,
Today I received yours of the 26th. I am on picket today. I have to go on only once in about four weeks. There are two very important things transpiring today. One is the inauguration of Old Abe [but] however important that event may be to the country, there is another that is full as important to the members of the regiment individually and that is that we are receiving four months pay. And for one, I can say that it comes in time of need.
News is very scarce here just at present. The rebels are not deserting quite as fast as they were a few days ago. It is said that there are a different set of men doing picket duty in our front from what there were a few days ago. It is either that or else the rebels are more particular about the men they send on picket. I am still doing duty at the 6th Regiment. How long I shall have to remain there, I do not know. I am glad that you had so good a visit with Lieut. Buck.
About my horse not carrying double, it is true. He did not propose to carry anything that was secesh and I do not blame him much either, do you? But that time I went two or three miles beyond our picket lines to dress a wounded rebel.
I have just been paid off and shall send a check for a hundred and fifty dollars which I hope will be acceptable to you. I hope you have not suffered for the want of it. I should liked to have sent more but I had to borrow some money to live on and shall have that to pay. I have two months pay now due me but we shall not get that now.
It has been very stormy here for the last week, it having rained almost every day. So I do not think we shall have to move just yet. My health continues good yet, and I hope yours is good also.
I have not heard from Mortimer since I left the Valley. I do not know why he does not write as I wrote him very soon after we got here. I should think he would answer it but perhaps he did not receive it. Give my regards to all enquiring friends. Yours affectionately, — Edwin R. Brush, Asst. Surgeon, 2d Vermont Vols. Washington D. C.
P. S. Please let me know as soon as you receive the check. — E. R. B.
Letter 3
[Note: This letter is from the private collection of Greg Herr and was transcribed and published on Spared & Shared by express consent.]
Burkville, Virginia April 19th 1865
Dear Amy,
I was in hopes to get a letter from you tonight but have just learned that we are to have none tonight. Our mail is quite irregular at present but are in hopes soon to be where it will be more regular and perhaps we shall not be so anxious about it.
The army is feeling very sad and gloomy in consequence of President Lincoln’s death. We feel that we have lost a father and a friend and the country its head. The indignation of the men is great and general. The sadness is general throughout the whole army. Woe to his assassin if he should fall into the hands of our soldiers.
We are expecting to leave here before many days but where we are going is not yet known but most likely it will be to Petersburg or Richmond where we shall be likely to remain until we are mustered out of the service which I hope will not be many months. The rebel soldiers are very glad to get home. I saw one that had been in the army a year that has just got home from Lynchburg. He came before our troops had entered the city. I asked him if they gave him leave to come and he said he did not ask them whether he might come or not but he said they [did] not molest him. I have talked with a great many of them and they all say that they have had fighting enough and are glad of the opportunity of getting home.
“He [Lee] had about thirty thousand men with him when he surrendered and there were only ten thousand of them that were armed.”
Edwin R. Brush, Asst. Surgeon, 2nd Vermont Infantry
Gen. Lee could not keep his army together on the march through the country. He had a great many Virginia troops and many of them went home. What troops he had when he surrendered were mostly without arms. He had about thirty thousand men with him when he surrendered and there were only ten thousand of them that were armed. There were probably many that did not have arms when they left Richmond and Petersburg such as hospital attendants, teamsters, and &c. But taking those out and there must have been many that threw their arms away.
We have been amusing ourselves today in reading Jeff Davis’s last message written at Danville. I think his next will be of a different tune. I have been to the station today to look at some of the captured artillery. I do not know just how many pieces there were there today but yesterday there were one hundred and one and there were more to come. They are sending them North as fast as possible and I hope they will be sent so far that the South will never see them.
I am as well as usual. Affectionately, your husband, — Ed Brush, Asst. Surgeon, 2nd Vermont Vols.
You may tell George that Mr. Taylor was with us until just before we left Petersburg when the sutlers were ordered out of the army and I have not seen or heard of him since.
The following letter was written by George Warren Campbell (1830-1874), the oldest child of Samuel Graham Campbell (1797-1873) and Elisabeth Goings (1804-1882) of Selma, Delaware county, Indiana. George enlisted in Co. D, 84th Indiana Infantry in August 1862 and mustered out of the service in late July 1864, being transferred to Co. C, Veteran Volunteer Engineering Corps. He was married in 1850 to Sarah Amanda Snidow (1833-1922) and had at least eight children.
George wrote the letter to his brother, William Harrison Campbell (1838-1912), who enlisted in Co. K, 19th Indiana Infantry on 29 July 1861 as a first sergeant and was promoted to 2nd, then 1st Lieutenant during the war. The 19th Indiana was, of course, part of the famed Iron Brigade or “Black Hat” Brigade. He was discharged for medical disability in October 1863 on account of the wound he received in the right hand while fighting Pettigrew’s North Carolinians in the afternoon of July 1st above Willoughby Run near Gettysburg.
ASSASSIN SYMPATHIZERS FACE PUNISHMENT.—Not all Union men mourned the loss of their leader. The Nashville Press described this image shortly after it was taken on April 15, 1865. “We saw a photograph yesterday of ten men who were arrested at Chattanooga on Sunday last for expressing pleasure at hearing of the death of President Lincoln,” reported a correspondent, who added, “Upon the breast of each was a tin plate with the words ‘Assassin Sympathizer’ painted on it.” The men were sentenced to labor on the streets in Chattanooga by day while wearing the placards, and by night they were confined in irons.
The Press also identified the men. They were a mix of soldiers and contract employees. It is unclear if the names listed by the Press match the actual order, left to right, in the photo: Government employees E. Jones, R.C. Jones and James Martin; citizen S. Moxley and blacksmith C.G. Moxley; and 18th Ohio Infantry privates Cyrus Leight, Henry D. Metzer, David Alspaugh and Moses H. Matheny. The soldiers were all late war recruits: Leight, Metzer and Alspaugh were substitutes who mustered into Company K during the last week of March 1865. Matheny mustered into the regiment in February 1864, making him the veteran of the group. The four men eventually received honorable discharges. They also hailed from the same state as U.S. Congressman Clement Vallandigham, the leader of the Copperhead faction of anti-war Democrats, and a powerful opponent of the Lincoln administration.
A fragmentary period pencil inscription on the back of the mount notes that a lieutenant presented the photograph to a major general.
Albumen by an anonymous photographer. Paul Loane collection.
Transcription
Chattanooga, East Tennessee May 2, 1865
Dear Brother Will,
I received your kind letter of April 12th a few days ago. The reason I did not answer sooner was owing to my not having stamps nor could I get any until yesterday. I should have liked to have been sporting with you. I have [not] had a squirrel hunt since last summer and you know I did not make it pay very well then. It is a wonder some of the young soldiers of Linnville did not offer their services to sit up with you the evening you killed the goose. They are certainly not very neighborly about that place, not so much so as they were a few miles south of there about thirteen years ago [when] I killed my first wild turkey in Missouri and some of the young ladies offered to sit up with me. That was owing perhaps to their being better acquainted with me than you.
We were rather jubilant over the fall of Richmond and Petersburg, the surrender of Lee’s army. It is hardly necessary for me to tell you that the death of our President cast a gloom over every thing with the exception of a few Rebels and butternuts. There were a few Rebs collected together at a house near the camp of Co. I of this regiment the evening of his death and having quite a jubilee over the sad intelligence, but their rejoicing was of short duration. Co. I went for them as soon as they found out what they were at, thrashed the men and sent them to the military prison, turned the women out of doors and fired the house. There were a few men who bear the name of soldier that rejoiced at the death of the President; such are now working on the most public streets of Chattanooga (or at least all such that [are] near this place) with a ball and chain attached to one foot, or rather ankle, and a card tied to their back with these two words, “Assassin Sympathizer” printed in large letters on them so that every person that can read or spell may see for what they are working there for. They ought to have their heads shaved and be drummed out of the service.
Since the surrender of [Joseph E.] Johnston’s Army, things look more cheerful and we are trying to think we will be mustered out soon, probably before the fourth of July next. However, I am not taking much stock in it. As to finding a location for you where it will not cost so much to live, I think that would be hard to do here unless he was in Government employ and that is about played out for they are discharging all government employees about here.
I believe I have written all the news. I saw my old regiment pass through here about a week ago enroute for Nashville. The boys thought they were going home. Lucy Campbell tells me to send you her respects. Give mine to Porter and Albert Sawyer. This leaves me well and hope it may find you the same. Hoping to hear from you soon, I close. As ever your affectionate brother, — G. W. Campbell
This letter was written by Emma E. Davis (1842-1927) of Strafford county, New Hampshire, the daughter of Alfred Davis (1819-1898) and Chloe Parker (1822-1902). We learn from the letter that Emma was working as a store clerk in Boston during the last year or two of the Civil War. It appears she must have married Jacob Childs (ten years her senior) sometime shortly after this letter was penned and lived out her days in Worcester, Massachusetts.
Emma wrote the letter to her cousin, William Sydney Gray (1836-1907) of Stratford, Coos county, New Hampshire. “Sydney” was the oldest of six children born to Thomas Gray (1810-1882) and Olive F. Davis (1810-1895). Syndey enlisted August 1862 to serve in Co. F, 12th New Hampshire Infantry. He was wounded slightly in the head at Chancellorsville and again at Chapin’s Farm.
Emma expressed shock at the news of the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln and marvels that she saw the benefit performance of J. Wilkes Booth at the Boston Museum a year earlier.
[Note: This letter is from the Sic Parvis Magna Collection and was transcribed and published on Spared & Shared by express consent.]
Transcription
Adressed to Mr. William S. Gray, Washington D. C., Co. F, 12th Regt. N. H. V., Point Lookout, Md.
Boston, Massachusetts May 28th 1865
Cousin Sidney,
As I was looking over some of my letters this afternoon (it being so stormy that I could not attend church), I happened to take up your last and stopped and read it, and if I recollect right, I have not answered it. And having nothing particular to do this afternoon I thought to spend a few minutes in answering it.
I suppose you are truly glad that your time expires soon. How many happy hearts there will be when those brave soldiers come marching home. I am truly thankful that this “cruel war is so nearly at an end.” It seemed as news came over the wire that Lee had surrendered that our whole land was filled with rejoicing. Boston was all excitement. All places of business were closed and all the Military and Fire Companies of Boston and the adjacent towns marched through the principal streets and bells were rung and cannon fired.
The 10th of April was a day long to be remembered in Boston. But it seemed that their rejoicing was soon to be turned to mourning. The morning of the 15th I shall never forget. As I went to the store everybody looked so sad that I wondered what could be the reason of it. Upon entering the [store] I asked one of the salesmen why it was everyone looked so sad. And they said, did you not know that our President had been killed. I could hardly believe it. But upon opening the paper, I found that it must be so. And upon returning home that afternoon the buildings were everywhere draped in mourning. Such a sad sight as Boston presented that week will be long remembered.
It seems dreadful that such a good man as Lincoln was should die by the hand of the assassin. I saw J. Wilkes Booth a year ago this month in the Museum. That was the only time I ever went to the Museum. It was his benefit evening. It was a tragical performance. It hardly seems possible he could ever have committed such a crime as he personated that evening.
Advertisement appearing in the Boston Evening Transcript, Friday, May 20, 1864
But I suppose you will want to hear of something else so I will leave that. I presume you knew that Augustus had again enlisted for three years in the 17th US Regulars—the same regiment he was in before. He enlisted the 14th of March. I was home this spring and stopped one day. I had a letter from home yesterday. They are all well at home. Augustus is in a Recruiting Office in Dover, and expects to stop there this summer. Edwin & Charles are grown up now, nearly as large as Augustus. Lizzie is a great girl and Frank and Rubie say that they wish Emma would come home and stay. I hardly think I shall go there to stay again although Father thinks I ought to come home and stay this summer.
My health has been very poor this spring. I have sometimes thought I should not be able to work but they think they cannot spare me at the store. I suppose you are expecting to come home in a short time, as the story is here that all soldiers whose time expires this year will come home next month. If you come through Boston on your way home, please call at 25 Federal Street and see me. Or if it is in the evening or on Sunday, you will find me at 75 Brighton Street, Boston. I do not board in Chelsea now. Please excuse all mistakes writing, &c., and answer as soon as convenient and direct to Emma E. Davis, 25 Federal Street, Boston, Mass.
By the [by], I have a present from the ladies in the room. I am Overseer Officer of a photograph album and I have reserved a place for your picture in it. I have got three soldiers pictures in it now but I fear you will say, “I wish Cousin Emma would not write so long a letter to me so I will close.” Remember and call to see me when you go home. From your cousin, — Emma E., 25 Federal Street
How do you suppose Uncle Jeff likes his headquarters now?
William and his sister Sarah (“Sallie”) Clark of Londonderry, New Hampshire
The following letter was written by William Clark (1844-1916), the son of Reed and Elizabeth (Perkins) Clark “After attending public schools, prepared for college at Pinkerton Academy,” William instead “enlisted 3 September 1864 as a private in Co. D, 1st New Hampshire Heavy Artillery” and was immediately promoted to corporal. The regiment was assigned to the defense of Washington D. C.
William was posted in Washington D. C. on the night of 14 April 1865, five days after the surrender of Lee to Grant at Appomattox, when President Abraham Lincoln was shot by John Wilkes Booth in Washington’s Ford Theater. Lincoln, of course, died early in the morning of April 15 and it was soon learned that his assassination was part of a larger plot to murder multiple key Union government officials. The assassination unleashed a torrent of mourning, anger, and retribution that was felt for years to come. After escaping from Washington, Booth was eventually cornered and killed in Virginia on 26 April, following a massive dragnet for him and his co-conspirators.
William wrote this letter on April 17th, two days after Lincoln’s death, to his sister in New Hampshire. It conveys a sense of the excitement that followed the assassination, but ends with a comment illustrating the joyous rebirth of Spring that managed to blossom in the midst of the madness, reminding us that life goes on.
Map showing location of Battery Cameron west of Georgetown overlooking the Potomac. Now the location of the German Embassy.
[Note: This letter is from the personal collection of Richard Weiner and was transcribed and published on Spared & Shared by express consent.]
Transcription
Addressed to Miss Sarah E. Clark, Derry, New Hampshire. As stated in the letter, this envelope once contained apple blossoms that are no longer present, but the fragrance lingers still.
Battery Cameron District of Columbia April 17th, 1865
Dear Sister Sarah,
I have not heard from home for nearly a week, nor received a letter or paper from anyone, but I thought I would write and let you know how we are situated. Our boys are all in picket except barely enough to guard the batteries. I am lucky enough not to be on quarter guard every other day, while the picket is not relieved at all. The picket posts are about 25 feet apart and extend around the city a distance of 145 miles. The authorities are searching all places of retreat within the lines. A great many are arrested. A man was caught by our boys last night while trying to pass the picket line on his hands and knees. He was armed with two revolvers heavily loaded. He was coming in. The guerrillas fired into the canal boat above Fort Sumner yesterday.
You cannot even imagine the state of affairs. Persons that are secession at heart have dressed their houses in mourning and people dare talk nothing but Union sentiments for fear of their lives. Several have been shot already for saying that they were glad that Lincoln was dead. I hear that Lincoln is to be buried Wednesday. I want to go to into the city but can’t go till Thursday—if I can then. We have an approved pass from Col. Long to get into the City with. There are so many guards now that a cat could scarcely pass them. I would send you a Washington paper if I could get one, but I cannot.
The boys that have been into the City say that every building on the street is draped in mourning. The Light Artillery was just in season to prevent the mob from breaking into the old Capitol Prison and murdering Gen. Lee’s son [who] is confined there. And Gen. Early is at Williard’s [Hotel] under guard, so I hear, but you must take that for what it is worth. I have just seen a column of cavalry come from Virginia across the river. I should think that there were two or more regiments of them. The New Hampshire cavalry is only 7 or 8 miles from here doing picket duty.
The mail has just come in and I must stop writing till I see if I got a letter. No letter for me so I shall not hear from you until tomorrow at least. Can’t you or Marianna write about Wednesday so that I may have about Saturday or Sunday. I am almost sure of a letter from you on Wednesday. I get the letters you write on Sundays on Wednesday. Is Carrie Parsons at home? And Kate Dinsmore? I would write to them but am afraid to for I am so nervous that I cannot write a very plain hand. It is unnecessary to inform you that I am on guard for that is all the time I have to write. It takes me all the time that I am off guard to clean my gun and equipments. Please write soon. My very best to all. Tell them I am well.
Your affectionate brother, — William Clark.
I never have the good luck to back (fold) a letter any other way then wrong side up, W.C.
Here are some apple blossoms; the orchards are in full bloom.
I could not find an image of William but here is one of Robert R. Russell of Co. H, 160th New York Infantry (Missing Letters File)
The following letter was written by William C. Guest (1839-1875) who enlisted as a private at Sodus, New York, on 9 September 1864 to serve in Co. C, 160th New York Infantry. He survived the war and was discharged on 1 June 1865 in Washington D. C.
Regrettably there is no family tree information on this branch of the Guest family that I could find on-line. The letter was addressed to “Dear Father” but the envelope was addressed to James A. Guest who was born in Cattaraugus county, New York, in 1831 so he would be too young to be the author’s father. My hunch is that James was an older brother who had previously served in the Civil War in the 26th New York Battery and was, by May 1865, working as an express agent in Belle Plaine, Iowa, where he was enumerated in the 1870 census. Sometimes letters and envelopes get mixed up, or sometimes a letter from one child gets forwarded to another. James’ military records indicate that his parents were Henry Guest and Rachel Beadle of Seneca county, New York.
The 160th New York Infantry was organized and later recruited from the counties of Cayuga, Seneca, Wayne, Ontario, Allegany, Erie and Wyoming. By the time William enlisted (or was drafted) into the regiment, they had seen action in the Department of the Gulf, the fall of Port Hudson, and the Red River Expedition. By the fall of 1864 when William joined them, they had returned to the East and specifically to the Shenandoah Valley where they fought with Gen. Sheridan against Gen. Early’s men. They sustained many casualties in the battles of Opequan and Cedar Creek.
William’s letter tells us about the trip to Washington D. C. to participate in the Grand Review in May and, while enroute, witnessing the Lincoln Funeral Train not long after it had left Washington on its way north to Baltimore on 21 April 1861. He also refers to the remains of John Wilkes Booth being on the gunboat Montauk at the Navy Yard.
[Note: This previously unpublished letter was graciously made available for transcription and publication on Spared & Shared expressly by the Sic Parvis Magna, Gratias Lesu Collection.]
Transcription
Addressed to Mr. James A. Guest. Belle Plaine, [Benton County] Iowa
Camp Stoneman Near Washington D. C.
May 1, 1865
Dear Father,
Your kind letter was received some time ago by Jimmie while we laid at Summit. The 4th of April we broke camp at Summit Point and went up the Valley above Winchester where the whole division assembled in a line of encampments. We remained there for four day and all of this time the cavalry was up in the Valley ahead of us scouring the Valley. They went up as far as Mount Jackson and only met with a few guerrillas and captured six of them which I had the chance of seeing as they passed along the pike, And at this time I had the chance of seeing the largest force of cavalry I ever witnessed including the 22nd New York and seeing some of the Lyons boys as they passed along in the column. I should think the column would extend in distance from one end to the other four miles distance including the whole line of them.
After remaining up there the four days, we was all ordered back to Summit Point and remained there 4 or 5 days and then was ordered to report to Washington. We all came by railroad stored and packed in the cars for 24 hours. Jimmie and myself and a number of others rode on top of the cars and slept there all night, and the weather rainy and misty. We had the pleasure of seeing the funeral train of our lamented President Lincoln. It passed us as our train stopped to wood and water between the Relay House and Washington, the road being double tracked.
Day before yesterday Jimmie procured a pass and visited Washington. He with John Layton who is there at the Campbell Hospital visit the places of interest and curiosity of Washington.
We are doing very heavy picket duty on this side of Washington. Orders are no persons are allowed to pass out or in with a pass [unless] signed by Gen. [Christopher C.] Augur or Secretary [Edwin] Stanton. It seems that Booth, the murder[er] is captured and his remains lie in state on board of a monitor [USS Montauk] in the Navy Yard at Washington. 1
Everyone seems to have the impression that the war is over and that we will see our homes [in] less than three months. Good feeling manifested here at the news of the surrendering of Johnston. It makes the boys in the regiment still talk more stronger about going home. Jimmie received a letter from Marier Jones. She said all was well and that John [was] there and his leg was very fast improving but some lame yet. Also last night Jim received a letter from Mrs. Lyman. All [were] well but Mr. Lyman. He had the rheumatism very bad. Also that Neu__ Vanderbilt was living with his wife in [the same] house with his mother and worked her farm this summer and also that Sanford works their farm again this season and that Mrs. Brown’s girls were living with her this summer. Also that Mr. Brown had been there to visit them. And also that Charley Rozell was clerking it for Owen Klink somewhere in the army for an army sutler.
Jimmie is still Orderly of this company and is well. He is today busy making out his pay rolls of this company. We now have four months pay due us to to today—the first of May.
With my love and best wishes, I remain your son, — William C. Guest
Co. C., 160th New York State Vols., 1st Division, 3rd Brigade, 19th Army Corps, Washington D. C.
Our regiment is very small. It only contains 250 men and it left Auburn with 840 men. We have a full view of Washington from this camp.
1 Readers are referred to another letter I transcribed in 2021 that was penned by Henry Washington Landes who served as a guard aboard the USS Montauk describes witnessing the autopsy of Booth performed onboard. See Henry Washington Landes Letters & Diaries.
Benjamin Willson Briggs (courtesy of Jeff Hendricks)
The following letter was written by Benjamin Willson Briggs (1842-aft1920) to his older sister Rhoda Sophia Briggs (1840-1921). They were the only children of Asa Barnard Briggs (1785-1863) and Jane Winslow (1788-1870) of Pierrepont, St. Lawrence county, New York. Rhoda was yet unmarried in 1865 when this letter was written but married Howard William Burt in 1875. Benjamin married in 1867 to Jane S. Striver (1843-1919) in Springfield, Illinois.
From the content of the letter and from the envelope it appears that in 1865, Benjamin was working for the Assessors’ Office of the US Internal Revenue Service, 8th Illinois District. We know that he married Jane in Springfield in 1867 which leads us to conjecture that he may be the same “Benjamin W. Briggs” of Pekin indicted in 1876 on petty charges of conspiring to defraud the United States in matters related to tax collecting. Later in life he appears to have taken his family to Omaha, Nebraska, where he worked as a baggage agent.
In this letter, Benjamin describes the emotional impact on himself and the community of Bloomington, Illinois, upon receiving news of the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. He also shares a remembrance of having been at a Ford’s Theatre performance the previous September when the news of the fall of Atlanta was announced, in stark contrast to the news of the assassination. He also, surprisingly, shares his wonderment that an assassination attempt had not been made previously during Lincoln’s daily sojourn to the cottage he kept at the Soldier’s Home. Finally he mentions briefly the arrest and near hanging of a resident in Bloomington who celebrated Lincoln’s death.
[Note: This previously unpublished letter was graciously made available for transcription and publication on Spared & Shared expressly by the Sic Parvis Magna, Gratias Lesu Collection.]
Transcription
Bloomington, [Illinois] April 16, 1865
Dear Sister,
I have received two letters from you since I have written to you. I will now endeavor to answer them both at once but I am afraid that it will be but a poor attempt for I do not feel much like writing letters today. The excitement occasioned by the terrible news of yesterday has not yet entirely subsided and therefore it is difficult for me to keep my thoughts together long enough to get them upon paper. Abraham Lincoln is no more!
No longer ago than day before yesterday the people here were all elated at the glorious prospects before them. Recruiting to be stopped and the expenses reduced. Surely the end was drawing nigh. All were gay and joy gleamed from every countenance. All were congratulating each other that this cruel war was over. What a contrast was yesterday—a fearful gloom overshadowing every countenance while the doleful gun, the tolling bell, and the city draped in mourning told of the terrible bereavement which the Nation had been doomed to suffer. The greatest and noblest of men, the national Chief Magistrate, had been stretched upon a bloody bier by the hand of a skulking assassin. Citizens looked each other in the face in blank astonishment while deep in their eyes was a troubled look that bespoke of sorrow mingled with terrible vengeance.
Last summer while I was at Washington I twice visited Ford Theatre. Once, while there, in the very midst of a play, the stage manager came forward and said, “Ladies and Gentlemen, official intelligence has just been received that Atlanta is ours. Gen. Sherman’s forces entered it at three o’clock this morning,” and he added with a triumphant air, “you can see what a man can do that gets up in the morning.” The applause was loud and long. Every loyal heart was full and every loyal mouth was open. The audience nearly all arose to their feet, hats and handkerchiefs were waved, and cheer after cheer was lustily given. The old theatre resounded with the welcome of good news. The tumult would subside at times at times seemingly to be renewed again with greater vigor. When the joy had spent itself, silence again resumed its sway and the play proceeded.
Daily National Republican, W. D. C., 3 September 1864. Mr. William Jermyn Florence (1831-1891)—who made the announcement according to the newspaper clipping—and his wife, Malvina Pray, were actors performing a Benefit at Ford’s Theatre on that evening.William’s actual surname was Conlin. He generally portrayed an Irishman and she a Yankee.
While sitting there that night enjoying the good news and the theatre, how little did I think of the awful, great, real tragedy so soon to be enacted there. I looked at the private boxes well. I remember they were filled with military personages, and the stars upon their shoulder straps told that they ranked of the first order. Abraham Lincoln was not there and it would have perhaps been well for him if he had never have gone there; and yet not there alone was he exposed to the assassin’s bullets. Always about six o’clock in the evening he would leave the Executive Mansion for his cottage in the suburb of the city. On that occasion he always had a body guard and there were always from ten to twenty curiosity seekers there eager to see him take his departure. Any man with nerves steady and strong enough to take unerring aim could easily have sent the deadly bullet on its awful mission then, and I thought to myself that by taking the precaution to become acquainted with the grounds, and have a secure hiding place looked out in case that he should effect his escape, he could stand half a chance to get away even though he did the deed before the very face and eyes of a body guard of fifty men all mounted and armed to the teeth.
The southern people must have ben actuated by a blind and bigoted vengeance to have plotted such a scheme as the one which they have carried into execution. They know not what is for their own good and they care less. They have killed a great and noble man—one whose bosom was incapable of harboring a single revengeful feeling—one who though he has been stern and unceasing in his endeavors to crush the rebels, has always held the olive branch to their view and who has declared to them that if they would lay down their arms, he would exercise “justice tempered with mercy.” Who will pardon Jeff Davis now? Aye, the bullet that laid Abraham Lincoln low killed the southerners best friend and roused a longing for revenge in northern men that one generation cannot clear away.
I cannot stop to tell you of what was done here today. How a man said if he thought the news was true, he would swing his hat high—how the mob got after the wrong man—how they finally got the right man—and how, but for the vigilent energies of the police, they would have swung him higher than he could have swung his hat. 1
It is getting dark and I must close. I have written much longer than I thought I possibly could when I sat down. My love to all with a big slice for yourself.
Your affectionate brother, — B. W. Briggs
1 I could not find any newspaper account of this incident in Bloomington, Illinois, but I don’t doubt it. There were numerous incidents of Union soldiers being arrested for saying similar things upon hearing of the assassination of the President.
The following letter was written by Darwin Nichols (1841-1901), the son of Cheney M. Nichols (1810-1892) and Almena Edson (1814-1883) of Attica, Wyoming county, New York. He wrote the letter to Orpha Jane Waters (1844-1906) with whom he married in 1865.
Darwin enlisted on 9 August 1862 as a private in Co. C, 130th New York Infantry but this regiment was converted to cavalry on 28 July 1863 and known as the 1st Dragoons or the 19th New York Cavalry. At the time of his enlistment he was described as 5 feet 7.5 inches tall, with blue eyes and light hair. He was wounded on 30 June 1864 but recovered and mustered out with his regiment on 30 June 1865. During its service, the 1st New York Dragoons fought in 64 battles, captured 19 pieces of artillery and four Confederate battle flags.
Darwin had an older brother named Edwin A. Nichols who served in Co. G, 160th New York Infantry who did not survive the war. He died at a hospital in New Orleans of an illness in December 1863.
A colt revolver that was carried by Corp. Chauncey J. Fox of the 19th New York Cavalry during the Civil War.
Transcription
[Note: This letter is from the private collection of Greg Herr and was transcribed and published on Spared & Shared by express consent.]
Addressed to Miss Orpha Waters, Johnsonsburgh, Wyoming county, New York
Remount Camp Pleasant Valley, Maryland Tuesday, April 18, 1865
My dearest Orpha,
Words nor tongue can express my delight at receiving your much welcome letter of April 14th which came duly to hand last night & also one of the 12th that has just arrived today. It being directed to Harper’s Ferry, I did not get as soon as I should if it had been directed as the other was. Under the present circumstances I shall be obliged to answer them both in one.
You will see by this that I am again at Remount Camp & shall be very likely to stay here until I am discharged. The regiment left camp at Halltown morning of the 14th. I was on a pass to Summit Point, Va., where I had been to visit my brother. I found him in good health & had a good visit with him & many others of my acquaintance. My health is about as usual. The Dr. still excuses me from duty & shall be as long as I can make the Dr. believe that I am unable to do duty.
The 17th Pennsylvania Brass Band are playing such interesting music, it is almost impossible for me to write at all but will endeavor to do it the best I can (you very likely know how much I am skilled in the art of letter writing).
With the general news you very likely are as well posted as myself. With so much rejoicing we are brought to sadness by hearing the news of our President’s death. But since that, we again hear cheering news from the army. Mobile has surrendered & in all probability Johnston with his entire force has surrendered to Sherman. Everything looks favorable & I hope in a short time we shall be on our way to meet our many friends with joyful hearts and anxious minds to meet our friends & loved ones from which they have been so long absent. I don’t think I shall ever have a desire to enter the service again. I think you could easily persuade me to stay at home—that is, if you choose to do so, and I think you will unless you change your mind much from what it now is.
I was pleased to hear that Delia was married. She was a fine girl. I wish them “much joy,” don’t you? The others that you speak of I don’t know that I am acquainted with. I think they are celebrating the close of the war in good earnest & I know of some others that I think will do what they can to celebrate its close & I dare say I shall be one of the “lucky ones” & I think Miss W. will be the favored one unless she changes her mind…
The boys are making so much noise it is impossible for me to write anything sensible & will lay this aside for the evening & finish it in the morning before the mail goes. Good night dearest. Pleasant dreams, — Your Darwin
Wednesday morning, April 19
With great pleasure I resume my writing while the others are busy about the breakfast. It is quite a chilly morning though very pleasant. Wish I was in Wyoming County this morning just to see how it would seem. I think there is no doubt but what we shall all be at home within a month. I hope so at least & I dare say there are others wishing and hoping the same. How I wish I could start for home this morning instead of writing this letter. I would remain silent & surprise you a little just for fun.
We have very comfortable quarters now though I am not half contented as I was up to Halltown, Va. It was such a pleasant place. I enjoyed myself first rate while we stayed there though it was not much fun to have camp alarmed nearly every night. But I hardly ever went out of my tent on those occasions.
With the assurance that you are loved just as tenderly and truly as ever, I will close by hoping that it will not be long ere we meet to part no more. Always remember that your letters are always received with great pleasure & delight. Don’t fail to write soon and a good long letter. Hoping this will find you in good health and spirits, I remain as ever your faithful friend and affectionate lover, — Darwin Nichols
Spared & Shared 23 