June 27th, 1861.
Dear Cousin Lou:
Did I not promise to write you, when the time came to say good-bye? Aye, oh best of women! And now I am fulfilling my promise hastily, for in an hour I shall be on my way to Washington. You must feel with me in my happiness! At length I am judged worthy to expose my life for my country’s sake. I go to join the 79th Regiment. Think, Cousin Lou, I am going to see real danger, real privation, real work – not as a mere Carpet-Knight, talking valorously to girls, but going forth in all humility to help to conquer in the name of God and my Country. Pray for me, Cousin Lou! Not for my life – I never prayed for that in any hour of peril – but pray that I may never falter, whether my duty shall lead me to honor or to death.
Good-bye,Cousin. Love to Mr. Grant, Cousin Laura, Cousin Henry, the children, and all friends.
Lovingly,
Willie.
Hurrah! Off in ten minutes, so Au-Revoir here or hereafter.