Augusta: William Brand to Kate Armentrout, March 4,
1862
Summary:
William tells Kate that he believes the Confederates will evacuate Winchester in
the near future. He also says that he, along with 35 members of his company, has
re-enlisted for the duration of the war, and expresses disappointment that
Kate's brother did not do so. He suggests that there will be "excitement in old
Augusta" with the approaching Confederate draft.
Miss Amanda C. Armentrout
Lacy Springs
Rockingham
CountyVirginia
March 4th 1862
Camped Near Winchester
Dear Kate
I received your much welcomed letter a few days ago and now seat my self to drop you a few lines. My health is very good & hope this may
find you enjoying the same blessing. The health of the Company is very good at present. We have
evacuated Camp [unclear: Zollicoffer] & camped in a half mile of Winchester. I believe that we are going
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to evacuate Winchester, as they are moving all the Government
property back to Strasburg
& all the sick are hurried back. It is
reported that the Yankees have posession of Martinsburg, Charles town &
Berryville but I do not believe it and still hope that we may be ordered back to
our cabins before long. The question was asked our
Company yesterday, whether we would enlist for the
war or not. Thirty five enlisted for the war the remainder
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say they will stand the draft. I am no longer a volunteer but a regular for the War be it long or
short & my prayer is that the God of Nations may keep me as the apple of
his eye. I will look to him at all times for he is able to save in the darkest
hours of peril. It is an assurance most dear to know that he will not forsake
those that put their trust in him. I was very sorry
that your Brother did not re-enlist as I would like
to have his company as a guide
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through this tempestuous world of war. I suppose there is a great deal of excitement in old
Augusta at this time on account of the draft that is to be made this month. I
hope that it may hit some of the speculators & hope I may have the
pleasure of getting home on furlough before long. I would like very much to see
you. Remember me in your prayers, that I may hold out faithful to the end. Write soon.
I remain your devoted friend
W.F.B.
