Alexandria Va Feb 19^th 1865

 

My Dear Wife

                                    It is again Sunday. The last week has measured short, for it has been a busy one.  I was so busy I did not write to you yesterday.  But we of the ticket office will not be as busy for a few days now, for last night just before the time for our 6.30 P.M. train to go to Washington the Engine of a wood train broke through the Lony Bridge on the Potomac and the engine and a few cars went into the river, the engine out of sight in deep water. No one was killed. This stops running passenger for the present to Washington by cars. But the bridge will soon be repaired so as to use it, and the boats will by that time be running too I think.

 

                                    Our trains to Fairfax, and Vienna will run as usual, so we shall have to keep office hours, but with much less to do.

 

                                    Mr Mase came in for some City Permit last night, but just as he came in the news came that the Bridge was down, and of course all his time and attention has since been given to that matter and others of more importance then mine.

 

                                    But I think I shall soon know what my position and duties are to be. I of course wish my position and duties pleasant ones, but if I can get my pay raised to a higher sum I care more about that then any personal consideration. Our Pay master has not come yet and at the close of this month both Bert and I shall have three months pay earned and not paid.  We shall be ragged boys soon if we get no pay, but so far we are getting along, so you need worry about us on that account.

 

                                    This morning the sun shines out warm and I think our cloldist weather is past.

 

                                    I will let you know as soon as I know myself what I am to do and be. Then I can also better tell when it was be plasant for you to cume and see us.  But the time of you cumming will depend on the state of the family affairs at home june I suppose. We shall be as glad to see you as can two boys was I think.

 

                                    I must write to Jule today and close this letter with love to you all

 

                                                Your Husband

                                                                        S. Hayden

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