Eyewitness to War - Letters: Jan. ‘97 America’s Civil War Feature

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Camp 12 miles below Richmond
August 12, 1862

Dear Wife,

I take advantage of this opportunity to write you a few lines. We have no tents yet and have had none since we left CampHolmes. We had but little food for two days, but had to march steadily through the hot weather. You need not be uneasyabout me for if I live I’m coming home. I want you to do the best you can for you and the children.

Tell the old man to take care of the crop and get some body to help him when gathering time comes. Give my love to him,mother and friends. Tell Hance to attend to the old sow and when I come home I will fetch him a cap. Tell John he must takecare of the chickens and have one big enough to make me a pie and when I come home I will fetch him a knife. Tell little Jesseto kiss his Grandmother and Grandfather for me.

The boys are well that came with me. I have my gun and expect to start away soon. Nothing more.

David R. Chandler to
Elizabeth Chandler

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