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Rome, June 27th 1862

Friday Morning

Dear Charley,

I was very glad indeed to get your letter, but

did not know until yesterday that you were still at

Aunt Fannie's, or that a letter could get there if written

to you. You must have had a right severe [tramp?] after

Jackson's army. I am so sorry you cannot get in to the

Rockbridge Artillery; Father seems to think there might be

more chance of your getting into it since the battle of

Port Republic, as they suffered severely there, but as it was said

to be through the miss-management of their Captain, I am

afraid they have not good officers and if so would not then

Richmond [?] be a more desirable company. Do you

know whether any of your acquaintance were among the

killed or wounded? I have heard nothing from any individ

ual of Jackson's army since they left Winchester the last time

have you? I had a letter Father on Wednesday, he seem

ed to be expecting a battle at Richmond every day, but to be ve

ry confident of success and told me what I was very

much surprised to hear that Jackson and his army were

within twenty miles of Richmond to operate upon McClel

lons right while Lee fortified them in front. So for all I

know you may be with him, as he must be not very far

from and in the direction of Uncle Gordons, and I shall be

very very anxious my darling and only brother until

I hear the battle is over and you safe. But God is merciful

and watches over those that trust in Him, into His hands

[Page 2]

my comfort and convenience are considered in all things

and I am treated exactly like one of the family. With my

school I get along very well. I have not been much about

in the neighborhood, but that has only been because I did

not want to. Mrs. Tucker tells me I can have the carriage

at any time. A good many people have been to see me

and some of them I like very much. Tell Kate I even

see a soldier occasionally. Give much love to dear Aunt

Fan, Uncle Gordon, Kate, Chapman, and Powell. Evening

The mail has come in, bringing the intelligence that

the battle of Richmond began yesterday evening and is

probably raging in all its violence today. Though I don't

doubt the result I am so anxious about it, so many no

ble hearts must cease to beat forever, and I know not

how many near and dear to me will be among the

number. Of you particularly my darling brother I am most

anxious; whether you are in it or not, I know not, do let

me hear from you at once, I cannot rest until I do.

I am glad you have gotten some of your money

from Mr. Martin, as it will give you more freedom

of action. Do write to me as soon as you get this Charley

if you ever get it which I think doubtful. God bless

and protect you my own darling brother, both in the

battle field and in the camp, is the earnest, hourly

prayer of your loving sister,

Hattie L. Powell