Steamer N. W. Thomas

Rendezvous Near Fort Pillow

April 13^th 1862

 

            My dear Nellie

                                    Our fleet consisting of Nine gun Boats, four Mortars, two steam “Tugs” and Eighteen steamers arrived at this point yesterday 2 P. M. after a very cautious but pleasant voyage. The rebel Gun boats appeared in sight yesterday morning but retreated out of range until under the Guns of Fort Pillow which is about eight miles below us. Our gun boats have gone forward to make a reconnoisance Until they return we can have no idea of what we will have to encounter before reaching Memphis which is about One Hundred Miles below Pillow

 

Nellie I was quite unwell yesterday and consequently did not fully enjoy my first view of “lower” Mississippi scenery. here the river is two miles wide and covered on either bank with dense cypress swamps Our train of transports following each other was the grandest sight I ever wittnessed Collected here they look like a large city on a public occasion. The men are in fine spirits but look thoughtful and determined when they turn their faces toward the last stronghold of traitors / on the Mississippi river, and it will soon fall The stars and stripes will wave in Pillow Randolph, and Memphis during this week if not the next 36 hours. As yet we have met with no resistance except a few shots fired at one of our tugs that got to close to the Arkansaw shore last night.

 

Our Boat is an excellent one and I have secured a good room in the ladies cabin We may have to remain aboard several days with nothing to do but think of home. We received St Louis papers this morning with partial accounts of the battle at Corrinth. I was pained to learn the death of Capt Eugene Godfrey formerly of Quincy and a member of my Company until promoted adjutant of the 18^th Missouri Regt.—The signal to move forward is given I will finish when I find an opportunity of mailing my letter.

 

11 A. M. Crossed the River and landing at the Arkansas shore probably to march by land. I will close for fear I will not have another chance and write to you soon again. Only Genl Paines division is moving yet I suppose we will get the advance as usual. Give my love to all and Nellie dont feel the least alarmed until you hear from me again—All well, Good bye

 

                                                                                    Your Affectionate husband

                                                                                                J B Cahill

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