13th Maine Infantry

Item LTR-8088

Description

Original Civil War soldier's letter. 3 pages, written in period ink.


Louisiana
Fort Jackson
April 9, 1863

Dear wife and most beloved one on earth,

I now write to let you know that I am well today. I thank the Lord today for his kind care over me. I love the Lord. I love the Savior for he died for me and you. I send my love to you Mary B. and I hope that I shall be returned to you again in health and strength. I pray to God that it may be. I would give everything I have in this world to see you and Ada S. today. I thank God I hope I shall come home this fall. Oh I pray that God will stop this cruel war. Oh do thou Father in heaven answer prayer on earth and give me health and strength to endure all that is required of me to do in penitence. Mary, when I think of you and Ada S. it makes me weep for I love you truly for I am not homesick. Oh Mary be faithful to my daughter. Bring her up to know the Savior and to fear him. O Lord our heavenly Father, the high and mighty ruler of the universe, who from thy throne behold all the dwellers upon earth, most heartily we beseech thee, with thy favor to behold and bless thy servant the President of the United States and all others in authority and so replenish them with the grace of thy holy Spirit, that they may always incline to thy will, and walk in thy way. Endue them plenteously with heavenly gifts; grant them in health and prosperity long to live; and finally after this life, to attain everlasting joy and felicity through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Mary, I suppose you would like to hear some of my heart’s desire. You have them above. I go to prayer meeting twice a week. Mr. Coffin of Old Town goes with me. Mr. Coffin reads a Chapter and I make a prayer. Oh Mary if I could be home to pray with you and Ada it would do my soul good. But I do pray for you and Ada S. here. Watch and pray and be strong in the Lord Mary.

10th of April

Mary B,
I have not had a letter for 15 days but it is not your fault Mary, I know. Charles is well. I send my love to Ada S. Wyman, sweet one. I love her dearly. Oh I would to God that I could see her and kiss them sweet cheeks of hers and yours Mary. It would do my soul good. Mary, Charles has just been over here today. He is well. I must close now from your husband and honest and true to you Mary B. Wyman.

From Joseph D. Wyman