New Madrid, Mo.

June 23-1863.

 

            My Dear Wife:—

                                                We left St. Louis on Saturday morning on board the Steamer Hannibal, and arrived at this place yesterday evening, all well, by the blessing of God, and I have the hope that He has been this merciful in blessing you all with good health. New Madrid is situated on the Missippi river about 10 miles below Island N^o 10 and 75 miles from Cairo. It is very important to hold this place, as it has a good fort and well commands the river, so it is very much to the interest of the free navigation of the Missippi / that we hold the place. We have about two Regiments and a half of men here now, and in 48 hours we expect to have several thousand. I think we shall stay here for some time. This place is considered pretty healthy, and I believe I would sooner stay here than at St. Louis. But we can trust Providence for the result of all our efforts to do right. We should be very thankful to the Great giver of all good for his mercies and for his blessings. I feel that it is our great duty to pray often, pray long, pray perseveringly and earnestly for grace to sustain us amidst all the trials and tem / tations of life and land us safely on the banks of sunny deliverance. I am very anxious to hear from you again. Dont let the Boys work too hard but let them be moderate in all things. Tell the Church to pray for us all that we may be succesful in our efforts to save the Union. Give my love to all inquiring friends, and write soon.

 

                                                                                    Affectionately Yours,

                                                                                                Ed. Hickman

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