Paducah, Ky., Feb 21, 1862

 

My Dear Wife

                        We are now in Paducah, near Fort Henry and Fort Donelson, where the best fighting of the war has been done. I do not know yet what work will be assigned to the 77^th, but I have no doubt but we will do it right, whatever it may be. We have just arrived here, on the Steamer "Jesse K Bell" having left Camp Dennison Monday evening. We have seen many of the rebel prisoners taken at the capture of Fort Donelson. The whole 15,000 have been or will be sent past here going north, via Cairo, which is fifteen miles from here. We are expecting a fight at Columbus or Clarksville, Tenn. I am very well. Nearly all my men are well. Isaiah Cline is with us. He is suffering with rheumatism. Luther Cline is in the hospital at Camp Dennison. We have not been on shore yet. I expect a letter from you this morning, as I got none from you since I was at home. I will write again soon, if I get a chance With the warmest love, as ever

                                                                                               

Your husband

A.W.M^cC.

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