Bridgeport, Ala.

April 1^st 1864

 

Dear Wife:—

                        I received yours of March 22^d on yesterday and was glad to hear that you were all in the enjoyment of good health, and that you are thankful to the Giver of all good for His bountiful displays of Divine love and blessings. Your letter found me well and in good spirits, and still striving to obtain and retain the love of God within me; so that I may the more easily overcome the cares disappointments and hardships of life and have the blessed assurance of a heavenly reward when I pass over the / Jordan of death. I shall mount on wings of faith to eternal joy at Gods right hand.

 

            If the 101^st are prisoners I, as one, dont know anything of it, and as to going to Virginia, I dont think that our Corps will be ordered there any ways soon; so you may in your next letter send my spectacles. When you go to buy them, take Aunt Drusilla with you—a pair that suits her I think will not fail to suit me. Also buy a steel case for them and take them to the postmaster & let him pack them so they wont brake. I have needed them very much, and hope you will not fail to send / them immediately. I dont believe the 101^st will be so easily taken prisoners again as they were before; for they are now where they keep prepared for every emergency.

 

            I am glad that John has given up the idea of learning a trade for the present, and has hired out himself and two of the horses. His wages, I think, are very good. You may sell the old mare when it suits you. Sorry to part with her; but we cannot always consult our own wishes. I am very glad that Mr. Reed is going to brake the colt for you.

 

            Last Monday night a week ago it commenced snowing here and kept at it till about eleven Oclock the next day. It meas- / ured about 15 inches on a level. The citizens say that it is the deepest they have ever had in these parts. It did not stay long, but was about all gone at the end of 48 hours.

 

            We have been holding a protracted meeting in our Regiment for about three weeks. The boys were always quiet and paid good attention—never giving any disturbance whatever. Several have been converted. It is the duty of all at home to pray for the conversion of the wicked soldier and also for the religious ones that they may be faithful.

 

                                                            Yours affectionately,

                                                                        E. Hickman

 

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Last Sunday I sent you $15^00/00 by mail so look out for it.

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