Camp Fort Stedman

Oct 6 1864

 

Dear Laura,

                        F P Brockway has just handed me a note you sent to Lieut Brockway concerning my safety which I will answer, as Lieut C B is at Harpersferry sick. I am happy to be able to say that I am safe and sound. My letter must be short as the mail leaves in a few moments and I know you will be pleased to know that I am all right. this makes the third time I have written to you this week and once or twice said I cannot understand why you do not get them. I am constantly worrying about you. 

 

this has been a warm day but clouds begin to cover the sun. peals of thunder rolls and vivid flashes of lightning pass through the sky. I think we will have a cool shower which will make it more comfortable.

 

well Laura I wish you was here to take supper with us we have some sweet potatoes. I love them tis so seldom we get anything of this kind I have not heard from Brother Silas since the battle at Poplar Grove Church but I hope he is safe. the battle was not as fierce as the one on the Weldon R Road, neither was the loss so great.

 

the late Battle at Chapins Farm near the R James was severe but only the 10^th & 18^th Corps participated in it.

 

the distance from here is ten / miles and about the same to Poplar Grove Church. the roar of cannon and rattle of musketry could plainly be heard in front of Petersburg. we rec^d orders to repair to the scene of action but to our great pleasure we had this order countermanded to remain in fort Stedman as the enemy was massing on our front with the intention to break the centre but they failed after several attempts it has been quiet all save the everlasting sharp shooters. they make us keep low heads and every day some unfortunate one puts his head above the works and the first he knows he gets a sly poke through his mug but if one is a little cautious he can be in a degree safe. I must now close. 

 

Laura I assure you if anything serious should happen me my friends in the Battery will let some one know that you may be apprised of it at the soonest possible chance although you was perfect and right in making inquiry through Lieut Brockway he is a Gentleman and would not fail to comply had he been here, and this is evidence that you have a deep interest in my welfare, which I shall try if possible to reward you. remember that I love you and never will cease caring for you, though I am far away amid dangers and trials, but I will if my life is spared prove to you that I am true and sincere although you may by turns think to the contrary.

 

            from your Will in Dixie

                                    Battery F.

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