Okolona Miss

 Sept 25^th/63

 

My Dear Mother,

                                    It is my painful duty to say that it is reported Brother John was killed in the late battle near Chattanooga. Col Miles Owen, who came up on the rail road, this evening, stated that a telegraph had been rec'd to the effect that Genl Smith Brother John and Mr Richmon Richmond were the only Memphians known to have been killed.

 

He could give me no particulars whatever.

 

The Regiment is said to have / been in the thickest of the fight, and to have suffered terribly. Three Captains out of five were killed.

 

I will go to Meridian tomorrow and if Genl Hardee will permit will go at once to Chattanooga.

 

Rosecrans is said to have succeeded in recrossing the river. Our loss is estimated at ten thousand. The enemys twenty five. We have captured a great many prisoners and guns. But whatever victory may have been gained it has been at fearful cost.

 

My love to Pa & all at home. I will write you again first opportunity

 

YrafftSon

DSDonelson

 

Genl Preston is re-                                                                  

ported killed. I have                                                                

heard nothing of

Uncle James. D.

SOURCES