Chester Barracks                    

Feb 24, 1864

 

Laura, your kind and affectionate letter came to hand yesterday but as I had just answered the other I thought you would not like both so close together therefore I put off writing until to day. I am well and but few of the Company are sick, hoping you still continue well. The weather is beautiful indeed like spring as you said in your letter the birds sing sweetly and reminds us that spring is close at hand

 

                        tis not here as you say of home. all are not / light hearted and seemingly happy. the majority are depressed, and regret that they have reenlisted and look forward to hardships and dangers. I have kept up the best appearance possible but I done it with much difficulty

 

                        Laura dont despair look upon the brightest page the black clouds that hang over our political horizon will soon pass away and peace & prosperity will dwell amongst men.

 

I would like to have been up to have heard Mr Creighton preach his farewell sermon I could have enjoyed it no doubt 

 

I would love to be there to go to church with you. I think we can pass our time so happy in company, and I long for the time when we can meet to remain together for a longer period than the last time I was there. indeed it was hard for me to leave when your father handed me the wine I could scarcely put it to my mouth. I suppose you thought I was hard hearted, leaving as I did, but I did not feel as I pretended, but thought it the best way.

 

                        Laura, I notice in your letters that you seem to doubt that I love you, and think that I will soon forget you / my heart never did leave you since I have known you and I hope never shall.

 

Although appearances may be contrary, yet tis true you seem to think that you love me to fondly this is why you won my affections. the evidence you gave me of your love for the long three years I had left you was sufficient I cannot love one that does not love me, therefore dont fear, but think that I love you, and ever have you before my eyes. on the field or in the camp when the battle is raging I will think of thee. 

 

                        You requested me to tell you in what light I viewed religion. I suppose you know that I do not profess to have religion, yet I respect all churches and request you to pray for me. I am fully aware that I should enjoy it.

 

                        We have orders to go to the front, and expect to go soon I think we will go to Brandy Station Virginia to the old camp which I dont like.

 

                        one thing more. I have forgotten to ask you for a picture of yours of some kind and hope you will send me one soon. I think you told me you had none when I was there if I mistake not, / I have the ones with me that I looked for them to send me. they are not as good as the one you have.

 

                        I will soon have to close and have roll call, and then the mail will go.

 

                        please answer and tell me all the news. my love to your Parents and all,

 

                        from your Affectionate

                        friend WHThurston

                        Battery F 1^st Pa Arty   Chester Hospital         Delaware County Penn^a

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