1861 Oct 15th Germantown Virginia

My Dear Creek

We are still here yet waiting in
daily expectation of something being done, but
nothing has yet happened, we were turned out
this morning two or three hours before day expecting
to go right to fighting, but it happened to be a false
alarm, we are however under orders to be ready to move
all our tents and baggage in half an hours warning
at any time, which makes me believe something is
about to be done, but of course we cannot tell
exactly as our generals keep all of their own secrets
which is by far the best plan.

I know this will make you all feel anxious about us
but do not for our sakes, let it trouble you too much
I will write you every day for a while and let you
know all about it, if I can get the chance I may
however be out in the field, where I may not have
a chance of writing but, I shall not let a single
opportunity pass without doing so, Our troops
are all in fine spirits and I have no doubt will
give a good account of themselves should we meet
the enemy.

Do not dear Creek let this distress you so much
Oh if I only could think that you were happy and
contented at our lot, it would be more of a pleasure

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for me to do my duty to my contry, but I know your
distress arises from the most Heavenly motivs and
it sheds a Holy influence over me.
I would write you more but I am in a great hury, and
I will most likely write you tomorrow again
Good night Dear Creek God Bless and Protect you
and our little darling

William

William Anderson, Captain Co. J, 4th Regiment South Carolina Volunteers (Palmetto Sharpshooters)

MSS 10366