Nashville Tenn          

Feby 16^th 1862

 

My Dear Father

                                    We have just passed through Nashville. Bowling Green has been evacuated We burnt a great many stores before we left and the enemy captured a great many. Fort Donelson was surrendered to day & it is reported that Floyd & Buckner with their Brigades have been taken prisoners & Pillow retreating rapidly to this place. Genl Crittenden is at Carthage and you may say our whole army is retreating rapidly. Where a stand will be made I am not able to say. There is great excitement here Women & children leaving.

 

Aunt Rosa is here & Uncle J does not know what to do with her

 

I am well with the exception of a sore throat. Joe has a very bad cold also.

                                                                                                           

Excuse haste

Your affectionate Son

D S Donelson

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