Bivouack on South bank of the

Rappahannock River V^a June 14^th

 

            Dearest Aunt.

                                    As I have a few spare quiet moments this morning I thought I would again write a few lines to Aunt Melissa well knowing that she will be glad to hear from her Nephew Covell and to know that God in his unceaseing goodness still watches over and protects him from harm through the many dangers with which he is surrounded

 

            Since I wrote you last we have crossed / the Rappahannock and are again faceing those terriffic heights which have so often vomited belched forth destruction and death to many of my brave fellow Soldiers (In arms for their country^s defense).

 

We are at present Bivouacked about one mile below the City of Fredricksburg and expect to be attacked by the enemy soon. They opened upon us last evening with a battery of Artillery but did not advance their Infintry within our range.

 

I received a letter from Miss Sarah (Trimble) a few days since and was very glad to hear / through her that you was enjoying tolerable good health (much better she wrote than you had been for some time past.) She also wrote that Grandfather and Uncle John Woods were with you making a visit. This must be a source of much pleasure to you. How is Uncle Reuben now I hope he is well Who is helping you this summer about the work By the time this reaches you we may have been engaged for another battle and I may be killed or wounded. Our Regt took the position of the front line of skirmishers a day or two since and I came very near being / hit several times. But the Angel of Mercy protects me and the God of comfort is with me and in Him will I try to put my whole trust. Were I a true Christian I feel that I could willingly make any sacrifice in our country's defence. We are enjoying beautiful weather here now although it is pretty warm some of the time. I must bid you "Good bye" once more.

 

Please write as soon as convenient for I love to hear from Aunt Melissa and Uncle Reuben often. Accept—dear Uncle and Aunt—my sincere esteem and respect while I remain as ever

 

                                                            Your loving Nephew

                                                                        Alfred C. Woods

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