Unknown Location
February 28, 1862

My dear brother,

News has reached me of our father’s passing. It grieves me deeply that neither of us could attend him in his final hours. I remain grateful that both Sarah and Eleanor were present to provide him comfort.

Sarah writes that Eleanor and Father grew remarkably close during his decline. In this, at least, we were blessed by the devoted women in our lives.

When first this conflict commenced, there existed a certain civility even am...