04. Harry's Letters, March-May, 1865

here, is quite equal to that of a Major General in Washington. My sage opinion on war matters is sought by high and low. I am afraid that my vanity is going to lead me to consider myself as sharing the glory with Grant and Sherman and Lincoln. But still I affect a show of modest demeanor and condescend to speak to each of my old acquaintances as are respectful and well dressed. I patronized the Governor and Secretary of State, who are in town, this morning, with a friendly nod. They are very worthy persons, although simply civilians, and I am disposed to treat them kindly. They appear very grateful.

But nonesense aside, I have met with many pleasant greetings and hearty hand-shakes by a host of old friends and associates. And, between you and I, I have had my resolution put to many a strong test by my wine drinking friends. I have proved as steadfast as Father Matthew.

It is pleasant to come among a people where I am known, once more, and it flatters a fellow's self pride not a little, to be told as I am by many an old aquaintance that I am looking better than ever; (even if it is said merely by way of compliment) that they have seen my name mentioned often and favorably in the papers -- glad to see me back, well of my wounds &c &c. It does one good to be remembered and to feel that even casual acquanitances take an interest in one. You see, no doubt that my vanity has been flattered. Well, I may as well own up that such is the fact. And you know what an Egotist I am.

I have done nothing but make calls since I have been here, so far. I am in no hurry to make any definite move in a business direction, preferring to look about me and trust myself as to the chances. I have been solicited to take a chair in one of the Editorial Sanctums here, but that Kite don't fly high enough

for me. It is highly probable that I shall be located, officialy, in Sacramento in the course of a month or so. I have had pretty strong assurance of a good position under the state Government. Sacramento is the seat of Government you know.

Mr Gorham found his wife and babies all well and very happy to see him after his absence. He found them all well, much to the relief of his anxiety.

You may be sure that I long to be with you again. I believe I should be entirely happy if you were here with me -- as I hope and trust and pray you will be before another year rolls round. And to love you and trust you and one day to call you my darling wife are objects enough to incite me to all the earnest endeavour of which I am capable. I want money -- not for moneys sake -- but that I may be able to offer you such a home and such comforts as I know you to be worthy of. And I shall strive to attain such a position in life as you would desire your husband to occupy.

God bless you Nellie and Keep you in health and happiness. Give my love to Lue and remember me to your brothers. Pray for me darling and believe me, ever yours affectionately

Henry R. Mighels.

[left margin sideways] I will try and send you my picture by the next mail. Send me one of your own when you have some more taken. Kiss Emma and Hattie for me Ever thine Harry.

Per Steamer

Postmark: San Francisco Cal Apr 13

Miss Nellie Verrill

Norway Village

Maine

San Francisco April 17th 1865.

Dear Nellie: -- When I took up this pen and laid down this paper and wrote the above date, my intention was to write to an old Army friend of mine in New York. -- an old Comrade in Arms -- one of our staff, when I was with Gen. Sturgis. But, somehow or other I wrote the name which, most of all, occupies my mind; and so I put my "dear Nellie" instead of my "dear Captain." I have just got your letter of March 17th -- St Patricks Day -- a long month ago. Ever so many thanks for your promptitude.

I am almost too sad at heart to write. We are only too fully informed of the terrible enactments of bloody deeds at Washington. Utter sadness and pity have siezed upon us; and solemn men fill the streets with mourning. All feel that the deepest affliction that ever befell a nation has visited us with a crushing weight of woe. Business is almost entirely suspended and the whole city is hung with crape. Startling rumors of further horrors fill the air and alarm and nervous apprehension haunt the