Alfred N.Y. Jan 20^th 1864

 

Dear Charlotte,

                        I now seat myself to write you a few lines to let you know that I am still in the land of the living. I have just returned sound and well from the Army, upon a furlough of thirty days, at the end of which time I shall return for the period of three years. Dell said she received a letter from you and wanted me to answer it for her. I have not seen the letter and dont know what was in it, but here goes for an off hand answer. I have asked Dell to help me write but she will not do it. I am now upon the hill overlooking the quiet little village of Bakers Bridge. It is growing twilight. The birds, if there were any here, would begin to think of going to roost. And honest folks / to bed, but I am going to write. Well the folks are just about as they were a year ago last Christmas. Ren Green has got a baby, and so I suppose is a happy man. Tip Spencer had one, but it is dead. Charlie is working upon the railroad. I have not had much chance to visit with him yet. Burt Potter and his little darling are keeping house. They look very slick. That is the way to enjoy life. But when they have a dozzen children whineing around, all enjoyment for me is gone. All I want is a woman, others may have the children. Dell sits right close to me at work, making me a coat. She is one of the most lovely women you ever see. At least I think so. She talks just as though she did not want me to go back to the Army, but if nothing happens this war will be finished in the course of another year and then I shall be very likely / to come home to stay. Melissa is here carrying on. She sends her best respects to yourself and Amy. Alvin has lost his leg and is at home with Sarah. He was wounded at the Battle of Chancellorsville.

 

Dell sends all the love to you that she has to spare. She loves me so hard that she has not much for any body else. You may want to know what Battles I have been in, so I will tell you some of the most important. Bull Run, Chancellorsville, Beverly Ford, Gettysburg, Wapping Hights, Auburn, Kellys Ford, Orrange Grove, Mine Run &c. And we have also been in a great number of skirmishes with the Johnie Rebs, so you see our Regt has seen its share of fighting, but expect to see more. My best respects to yourself and Amy, my love to if Dell can spare any of it, and also to your Father. I have carried the Bible he gave / me every day since I left home and brought it back safe and sound The clasp is broken off and the book is much worn, but no money would buy it. I intend to keep it as long as I live. I should be much pleased to hear from you before I return to Washington. Please write to Dell and me.

                                   

As ever Yours Truly,

William A Rose

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