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Augusta: William F. Brand to Kate Armentrout, May 4, 1861

Summary:
William tells Kate about friends and family he has seen in camp at Harpers Ferry, and that he and his friends have enlisted "for as long as Virginia has need for us." He estimates that the war will last three or four years.

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May 4th '61

Harpers Ferry

Dear Kate

In confusion not as you expect for time is so very precious that I have to hurry about every thing. Yesterday we were all on Maryland heights & had nothing to eat & raining and no shelter but when we came home those that we left had dinner ready for us. Brother arrived safely yesterday with Thomas Supple but James Supple never will get here for he

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took sick at Winchester & I expect he will go home, very likely it is good policy in him for I know that he would be scorned almost to death. I would not be in his place for a fortune or any thing that seems dearer. We all enlisted our services to day as long as Virginia had need for us. I don't think that we will be released before Three or Four years & if that may be the case we all never can come home. John is well, I think he wrote to you all. I am not certain. Abraham sends you his love to you.

I will have to bring this uninteresting letter to a close, my health is very good & hope that these few lines come to hand you may be enjoying the same blessing. I ask an Interest in your prayers give my love to all the family.

yours in love purity & fidelity

William F. Brand

PS Please excuse all bad writing spelling & composition. Yours &c W.F.B.


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God bless you when the sunset tints Warm the high battlements of heaven As day a fond warm kiss imprints Upon the gentle brow of even Yours &c WFB
Mr George W Fitch requested me to send you his love & at the same time not knowing who I was writing to & says he will write before long. Good bye.