Camp Four Miles South Of Winchester, Virginia,
November 13, 1864. — Sunday.
My Darling: — You see we have made one day’s march towards civilization, and, as we hope, towards our much wished for winter quarters. The weather has been and still is very favorable for the season — cold and windy to be sure, but very little rain. We do not know how far north we shall go. No doubt as far as some railroad and telegraphic communication. We have halted here for four days past, probably on account of reports that the Rebel army, reinforced and reorganized, is following after us. We do not know how it is, but if they wish to try conclusions with us again, it is likely General Sheridan will meet them.
My first brigade went to Martinsburg a week ago. It was hoped that they would not have to come back, but the probability now is that they will return. If so, I shall assume command of them again. General Duval has returned cured of his wound. I could perhaps keep a division, but under the circumstances I much prefer my old brigade. It has been greatly improved by the addition of the Ninth Virginia Veterans, who now with the Fifth form the First Virginia Veterans under Lieutenant-Colonel Enochs — a splendid regiment.
We are rejoiced that Captain Hastings is improving; he is still low but decidedly improving. His sister, whom you know, and a brother are with him.
Lincoln’s election was so confidently expected that it does not cause so much excitement as we sometimes see, but it gives great satisfaction here.
Generals Sheridan and Crook both voted for him. It was General Sheridan’s first vote!
I have no decided feeling about the little soldier’s name. But I can’t help thinking, suppose he should die after living long enough to become very dear to all of you. Would it not be awkward to think of the dear lost ones by the same name? And is not the idea of death now associated with the nickname “Little Jody”? But I am quite indifferent. Decide as you wish, or leave it to be decided by the boys.
Give my love to the kind friends.
Captain Reed, who sent you the dispatch, is an officer on Colonel Thoburn’s staff — who was thoughtful enough to contradict the false report.
Affectionately ever, your
R.
P. S. — Doctor and I rode to the front this P. M., a very cold, windy, raw day. From the best information I can get, nothing but cavalry has been seen. I think the Rebel army is not a-going to disturb us again. General Powell took two guns, two flags, and two hundred prisoners from General McCausland last night. A very handsome affair. The Second Virginia Cavalry is getting as good as any of them under General Powell.
