Camp Hancock V^a     

April 30^th 1864

 

Laura, I feel depressed in spirit, and dull, to pass the long hours between this and bed time. I will devote them in writing to you, thinking you would be pleased to read the lines from your humble friend. the knight is dark and stormy. 'tis 'raining fast'. I have just been wondering whether it rains at home. how sad and lonely I feel, what would I not give to be at home this knight, and know that we lived in a peaceful land. I often have pleasant dreams, sometimes that I am among my companions going to places of enjoyment to Church, and then to awake and find how much through my fancied vision I was disappointed, and say O tis only a dream. here I find myself crouched upon my little bed, sore and restless 

 

I had forgotten to say something regarding the picture you sent me. I will send one back this time I think they are good. I thank you for sending it to me still the other was plenty good enough.

 

            May 1^st this has been a pleasant Sabbath. the sun shone brightly all day. inspections has been the order of the day. we had one at 10 A.M. the news is of little note thousands of men are daily coming. every train from Washington is laden to its utmost capacity. Burnsides Corps is on its way here, two Brigades of Negroes accompany him. I have not seen them yet but expect to in a short time. the Army is large and in good condition. I think victory will perch upon our banners in the next grand struggle.

 

            May 3^d

                        Laura, we march at 8 o'clock to knight, do not make yourself any trouble. if you dont hear from me in two or three / weeks, I assure you I will write at the earliest opportunity if my life is spared. a general order was read to us that this was the final struggle. good bye God bless you and pray for me,

my kind regards to your family

 

from your devoted and true

friend

WHThurston

 

please answer.

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