C^o E, 1^st Reg^t., Ex Brigade.

Camp near Falmouth, V^a.

            Thursday, Feb 12^th 1863

 

Dear Sister.

                        Your very welcome letter dated the 4^th inst. was received yesterday. I am glad that you all were enjoying so good health at the time of writing, and hope the illness of Harry proved to be of no serious nature. I am sorry that Maryetta still is confined to bed, but hope the next letter will bring better news. Give my love to John and his family. What has become of Mrs Brunn, you never mention her any more. if you see her give her my best respects. I have for a long time / intended to ask you, but always for-got it at the time of writing, what disposition is made of the old homestead. there has never been a word written me about it since I left. And often have I wonderd whether it is being cultivated, or lying in waste like thousands of acres in V^a made desolate by the opposing Armies. I scarcly know what to think if the intendid Negroe Army, if they are to be made do the "digging" it is all right, but if they are to be armed for the field, I think it a foolish job. It will be throwing arms away to put them into the hands of niggers for I believe one reg^t of white men will whip a Brigade of them. If the goverment thinks the darks / will volunteer, I am afraid she is sadly mistaken, every dark that comes soldiering, that is, to carry a musket, will have to be drafted. A nigger will volunteer to do nothing. If an attempt to mix them with the white soldiers should be made, the army would mutinize. Loyal as I am, I would not serve my country with niggers for my companions. I do not like the animals, and can scarcly believe them fully human. I saw Sam Herr yesterday. he is in usual good health. I am hearty, and hope this may find you all the same. My love to all.

 

Kiss Harry for me.                                         

 

Your Affectionate Brother

Samuel W Croft.

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