Dec 31^st 1862

In swamp opposite Vicksburg Miss.

 

Dear Sister:

                        In hopes I may soon have a chance to send these few lines home I sit down on a log in Yazoo swamp to pen them. One week ago last Sunday we took the boats at Memphis for this place. On the way down we confiscated all kinds of property. When within 26 miles of Vicksburg, on the Louisiana side our company went out on picket and confiscated a sow sixty chickens and two bushels of sweet potatoes. We were called in early in the morning and sent off with the brigade to destroy a railroad which runs in opposite Vicksburg from Louisiana. We arrived there at night slept soundly until morning then burnt the bridge and depot, tore up the track and burnt all the cotton on our way back. I think half a million dollars wouldn't cover the loss. We had a good time too, for we had chickens, sweet potato, honey and sugar which we took whenever we wanted it.

 

            Last Saturday night a general engagement was ordered by all the troops, and, accordingly at about 9 o'clock at night our brigade came out in the swamp six miles ready for the work in the morning. (Our boats came six miles up the Yazoo river). The contest began early in the morning but and lasted two days. But we have not yet gone into the fight. There is a bayou we / have to cross and have not yet been able to do it. When we accomplish this we shall take the city.

 

I think we shall accomplish the work soon. But many are taken sick in this miserable swamp. Yet I keep well. I can't tell why when others in the company, who were accounted able to endure all hardships, seem to be quite unwell. But so it is. Now I can realize your anxiety about me. But pray feel no more anxiety than I feel. It is true I have to pass through fiery trials but I have the courage to face dangers. And am confident I shall live to see you all again. When the battle's over you shall hear from me immediately.

 

Joseph Savage, Mr Kezartee and Mr Cook are well. Lieut Walbridge sends his respects and wishes you to tell Hattie he is with us and quite well. Lieut. Stanley, likewise, keeps with us.

 

Now, my kind Sister, I send you all my love. The bright future is before us. Though it seems dark now remember that the present life is not all of our existence and that we shall see each other in brighter and happier life beyond the grave if not permitted sooner.

                                                           

Your Loving Brother,

R. B. Crandall.

 

P.S. Write to me often and direct via Cairo & Memphis.      R.B.C.

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