Sandford Speer

 

Patterson's Creek, Va, Jan the 13^th 1862

 

Dear Brother,

                        Yours came to hand a few days since. I will now make an attempt to write a few lines in answer to it. I will now commence where I left off in Marys We had a dark muddy tramp I found my boots very useful We passed through frankfort about daylight. We then came on and arrived here about noon. We put up our tents in the evening and staid all night and here we are yet How long we will remain here I know not, but I believe it is the general / opinion that we will go up the railroad about two miles to the bridge across the Potomic, cross over on the Maryland side and stay there a while. We have a very heavy force here now, something like twelve thousand. All of the troops from Romney & Springfield have retreated back to this place. What for, I know not. I expect that there are plenty of Secesh now at Romney and Springfield. I heard that there was thirty thousand Rebels advancing on us. if this be true, this may be the reason of our retreat, on the account of their superior force. / Their idea was to get possession of the railroad down near Cumberland and thereby cut off our supplies, but we were a little too sharp for them. When we go up the railroad to the bridge, we will then be within five or six miles of Cumberland. We have tolerably nice weather here now. Last week we had good sleighing. that was the only snow that we have had in this part, but it is all gone now. Henry and I are a getting along fine. I am three pounds and a half the heaviest. I weigh a hundred and seventy one. Yesterday was by birthday. 

 

I would like very well to be at home and spend a few days with you. But this is impossible. But I still hope that this war will not last much longer. I have nothing more of very much importance to write. Please write as often as convenient. Give love and respects to all. I sent up today to Cumberland for my revolver. I will get it this evening. So no more

 

Write soon.

                        W. H. Speer

 

Sandford Speer

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