Soldiers free library, and reading room,

Corner of 5^th and E. Streets,

                                    Washington, DC.

                                                May 19^th 1863

 

            Friend Edward,

                                    Your interesting letter dated april the 11^th and 14^th was received on the 16^th of the same month. I have been waiting to get time to solve the enigma you sent, but I have not done it yet. I had it part wrought out on a slate. I was called off to do something, and before I got a chance to take it up again it was rubbed out. I thought it would not do to wait any longer without writing an answer to your letter. I fear you will think that I do not care about writing to you, but I do not want you / to think so, if such a thought has entered your head bid it depart “double quick”. I can not command language well enough to tell you how it gladdens a Soldiers heart to receive letters from friends and relatives. It keeps alive and fresh memories of home and the loved ones there it has a great influence over the Soldier for good. it keeps his love burning for sacred things. letters from warm hearted, true friends are to the Soldier like an angel with food and drink to a famishing person in a dry and thirsty land where no water is. Whatever you do or do not do write cheering letters to the Soldiers of Our Country the Defenders of Our liberties…Liberty thou priceless gem long / may you be ours and may your influence be shed abroad in every land. We have had some beautiful weather during this Month. The trees and shrubbery have put on a beautiful dress of green. everything presents a lovely appearance. all nature looks fresh and full of life, but the fragrance of the roses and flowers is nearly spoiled by the disagreeable odor from dead horses and mules that lie scattered over the Country. The sweet songs of the featherd songsters is very much marred by the discordant sounds of the heavy army wagons as they go rumbling over the ground conveying provisions, clothing, and amunition to the army the last named article is that indispensable article during war. that is the best stuff for Uncle Sams boys to feed the enemy with. /

 

Where I am writing these lines is a very pleasant room fitted up for the benefit of Soldiers. here is a very good place to write. we have pen ink, paper, and envelopes furnished free to write letters. the walls are decorated with pictures and flags, newspapers are sent here from all parts of the Union…and Soldiers can spend their time here very profitably…I would like to write more but I hav’nt time I must go and get the mail. With my respects to you and all inquiring friends I am your friend

                                                            Stephen R Whitney.

 

Write Soon.

SOURCES