Camp near The River            

Battle field                 

May 13, 1864

 

Laura I am safe. God has spared my life. we have been fighting 9 nine days. I will not pretend to describe the horrible scenes of the field but suffice to say it was awful. the field is covered with dead and dying we have won a dearly fought victory the 2^d Corps has covered itself with fame. yesterday morning we captured 7000 thousand prisoners and 30 pieces of Artillery the Rebel Army is retreating but we must fight more battles. I have not seen Brother. I know not whether he is dead or alive give my love to all the family and write soon 

 

I am almost tired out. we have not taken off the harness since we are marching, our horses are tired out. I must now close the mail is going out. Gen^l Grant gave us permission to send our friends a letter. I rec^d your letter of the 2^d on the battle field on the 5^th but could not answer.

           

yours truly and Affectionately

WHThurston

Baty F 1^st Pa Arty

2^d Corps

Washington DC.

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