H^d Q^rs Loring's Div. S.C.A.T.

Near Tenn River N. Ala.

Nov. 14^th 1864

                       

Dear Nannie,

                                    Do you know that you give your old Brother a great deal of uneasiness? I reckon not, but nevertheless it is a fact!! And what do you think it is all about? When I left home you were "Ma's own pet", in short dresses and a nursery child. Three or four long years, and it is now Miss Thomas. Well what of that?

 

            From Raleigh's statement the young men grown up since my day, have greatly degenerated & from the war and other causes have become demoralized, dissipated and profligate. Notwithstanding your own good teachings, and Mothers watchful eye, I have my apprehensions without a brother to direct and caution. Many young men insinuate themselves into the society that they afterwards disgrace.

 

            My own little Nannie let me caution you, tho' it may be years before we are again united, still if possible be [?] of your love, until I can give my permission. This war has given us who are engaged a valuable lesson in the world. And how few I find that are worthy of the girls we meet daily. I hope you are an exception to the young ladies of the present age / more interested with your own family and less taken up with the beaux of town. If you knew how much yr old Hanse loved you and thought about you probably you would remain contented until he returns. Enough! that is lecture sufficient for one time. Lets see the fruits thereof.

 

            Besides, I want room in yr heart for a sister. I hope to bring you one of the sweetest, prettiest and best Christians you have ever met with. But that's too extrusive a subject to discuss while thus far apart. If I do succeed in consummating matters you shall pass judgment yourself. What bright futures if only realized. Dont say we wont be proud when we reach home and settle down in the old fashion peace style. Enough of this too. try & send her photograph some of these days.

 

            So old Doug still goes up the ladder! How dignified he must be. Cash of [?] Unless I should ascend in same proportion in one of the other vocations of life why—he will hardly condescend to acknowledge me. Give him my love. Tell him I say he must give his sweetheart a kiss for me, just show her my photograph, which I will send the first opportunity & I know she can't resist. He need not be jealous. All the girls would do the same. you I am perfectly / irresistible when I get my good clothes on, shape up and make my bow Ahem!!!

 

            Give my love to Ma & the boys. tell them to think of me some time this winter when they have those oyster roasts and ducks. By the way ask Gordon if Johnnie Fallon is still alive, and how about those Duckths he was want to sell?

 

            Love to Grandma. how I should like to see her. Mary, you can give her the same instructions I send you, with a lot of love. Be sure to send me the photographs of all the family.

 

            This pen is so execrable that it is impossible to write except with [?]

 

Love to all                  

Yr devoted Brother

Hanson

 

Miss Nannie Thomas, Baltimore, Md.

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