1862-02-14

Feb 14th 1862

My very dear son

This is the day Ade said she was to have hollyday and you had promised to take her out in the country to make you a visit, this morning when the sun was shineing so pleasantly I felt that I would like so much to be there to go with you, sometimes a bright wish of this kind comes over me and then a sad feeling like a [sparing?] cloud seems [?] over and makes it dark again.

I think of you a great deal my son, and feel comforted knowing you pray fervently for me and my poor soldier boys, how my heart bleeds for them, so young, and surrounded by so much vice. They who have the command of them are profane men who have "no fear of God before their eyes"

{the following is the sideways text:} Bro. Dick, I intended writing you this week, but as ma had written I will postpone until another time. I was at Salem last Sat. Mr. [?] didn't get to see us as he expected to do. The rain Saturday presented his coming here from Clover Garden.

In much love your sister [?]

Remember poor Gaston in your prayers, they are now expecting an attack at Wilmington I am glad he has a praying Captain

Tomorrow is your birth day my dear and I pray you may have renewal of grace and wisdom given you from above to preach the gospel in its light and purity.

Susan is at school and Laura has gone down to brother S____, Ellen is not well We don't hear much from dear Etta, Mrs Fisher wrote two weeks ago said she was as well as usual. A letter from Alexa and Sa____ each this week they were well. I did not receive either of his boxes. Do you write to them? I want you to go and see Ade and Betty as often as you can I think Ade must need some thick shoes. If you need anything from home get on your horse and come we will be so glad to see you. Your Brother James, John, and Sam went fishing with nets yesterday evening but did not succeed in netting any fish. Sidney went to Charlot last week and bought a few goods. Mary is still sick not able to do any work since you left. May Heavens richest [Helping?] be around you my dear son is the sincere prayer of your mother.

Mary sends love to you.