Franklin County: Franklin Rosenbery to John Abraham
Rosenbery (father), March 21, 1864
Summary:
Rosenbery thanks God for his health. He then writes about the army's marching
orders and his anticipation of a clash with Confederates. He states his
determination to gain victory for the nation, even at the cost of more lives,
even though he also longs for home.
March 21, 1864
Camp Near Stephensburg, Virginia
Dear Father-
I use the present opportunity of informing you that your kind and welcome letter of the 14th came to hand yesterday evening.
I was truly glad to hear from you all.
I, this morning, as a traveler to Eternity Thank God that I am well and on my way to the New Jerusalem, hoping and praying that these few lines may find you all enjoying the same blessings of health that I now enjoy.
It is pretty cold here today and cloudy with the appearance of snow. Everything appears middling quiet at present but we are under marching orders.
It is rumored through the Camp that the enemy has changed camp or else has started out on their summer Campaign.
If so they will try to flank us but if they do they will send the boys of the 148th somewhere about. They hate our division or rather Corps much. They call it the Butter Fly but I think think it is the Enemy's Fly.
On last Friday evening at dress parade we were ordered to pack up to march at a moment's warning. Down at the Rapidan they showed a heavy front. I do not doubt but they will try to get in our rear. If they do they will see some fun.
Although it may cost some of our lives but that is what we are here for to fight for our country and country rights.
Things look pretty favorable for us conscripts to get home some time in May if we live; According to the Act, They cannot keep us longer. Although it is kept very quiet, I shall live in hopes.
I feel very well satisfied here but still if all was peace I would rather be at home.
Dear Father, make yourself contented and hope for the better. Take care of your health.
Tell Solomon if Rineman has not got that watch done he shall hand it over. Soon he will ask him for rent for the room that the watch takes up. You need not send the watch till further orders.
We expect to be paid off some of these days 'ere long.
Tell Brother John I would like to see a few lines from him. If he writes to me, I will try and answer his letter. I wrote a letter to John A. Horn some time ago but I think the letter got lost as I do not get any answer.
I have nothing of importance to write. A few days ago, I wrote to you a letter and in it I placed a letter that Brother Abraham had writ to me. You can inform him of the things that he requested of me. I must close for the present.
Write soon so -farewell, Dear Father, for this time.
Franklin Rosenbery
