Head Quarters 2^nd Brig 1^st Div

Centerville Sept 1^st 1862

 

            We are forbidden dear wife to send any letters from the army & this has been the order for a long time, but today Capt Margedant who is an aid to Gen^l Schenck is now on horseback waiting for me to write a line to you which he will take to Washington & then mail to you. I have only time to say that during all the battles we have had a merciful God has preserved my life, and that I am unhurt. We have been defeated in a terrible battle, and I believe by the incompetency of Gen^l Pope. As yet I have not received any answer from my application for leave but should I get a favorable answer I will come immediately. In our last / battle poor Terry was shot under me, so that I am reduced to one horse that I really own. After Terry was shot I found on the battlefield a fine horse whose owner had been shot, and as he came near I had him caught & mounted him, I have him still. As yet I have not been able to find out to whom he belonged.

 

            I cannot hear from you as our mails have been kept back and my anxiety is terrible to know how you are. It is very hard for you & for me also dear wife but I trust in a merciful God to bring us both through without harm. Gen^l Schenck was wounded in the arm & is now in Alexandria I almost envy him his wound as it will take him home. May God bless & preserve you dear wife & speedily reunite us in peace & happiness. 

 

Keep up your courage and look to our merciful God for help. He will hear our united prayers & again unite us. I must quit, but will write whenever I can smuggle a letter to you. Continue to write to me as usual. Love to Lindy & the children & loving kisses to darling wife.

                                               

N. C. M^cLean

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