South of Petersburg Va.

July 15^th 1864.

 

Dear Bro. & Sister,

                I have written various letters recently—the date of the last letter received from Jessie was June 13^th. Mail communication has reopened, a few letters from the South came to-day, expect a large mail tomorrow. Ed and I are both hearty. You have no doubt learned of the death of Bro. Dan. Did you receive a letter containing one to Lizzie? I hope all will yield with Christian resignation to this sad dispensation of [faded, paper hole] & strive to get to the departed one in heaven, for he left us bright hopes of his entrance into that bright abode.

 

We have been in no engagement since the 23^d ult. Have been back in the woods resting for several days till last night we came to the front in our old position. Our Regt. will go back again to night to rest a while longer. Here we are in open view of the enemy, but have agreed not to fire upon each other except in case of an advance. I mean with small arms. an occasional shell is heard along the lines If it were allowed there would be constant exchanging of papers, trading &c. We are plenty close to understanding each other. 

 

There seems to be quite a stir among the Yankees concerning the movements of our forces around Washington City & Baltimore. The news is encouraging. the papers will give you all the information I possess on the subject. 'Tis thought that Grant is sending off a large portion of his force from this place. We are strongly fortified and feel fully able to resist every attack here. I believe our cause is still safe—that we will yet succeed. My trust is still in the God of battles. if as a nation we would humble ourselves and call upon Him for help I believe a glorious and decisive victory would soon crown our efforts.

 

I have nothing interesting to write as I have written often of late. Write soon and give me all the news

 

Love to all the family & regards to all my friends. hope I have no enemies. May heaven's blessings attend you both is the sincere desire of your affectionate

                                                           

Brother, J. W. Cheatham

 

P.S.

            Tell Pa he can often hear from me through Wm. Lowry as Jas. Lowry writes often.                                                                                                               

Yours, J.W.C.

 

July 16—

            In reserve as expected, all quiet

           

All well                      

JWC

SOURCES