William Nicholson to his Aunt - August 21, 1863

To Miss M. Nicholson,
Bastrop, Texas.

From William Nicholson,
Private in Company (D),
"Terry's Texas Rangers."

Miss Mary Nicholson,
Bastrop,
Bastrop Co.,
Texas.

---

Dear Sister Mary—

Again the Rangers have opportunity of sending letters home. A Gentleman leaves Monday who has given us notice that he will endeavor to take all letters entrusted to his care. This I think is the fourth letter I have written home this month, one about the 1st, and one the 11th and one by Charley Caldwell about the 16th. I have not rec'd a letter from home in a long time, have nearly given up hopes of ever receiving any more, although I knoew they are written to me but circumstances are such now that we do not expect letters, and are therefore not so much disappointed not receiving them.

I am writing this letter where I did my last, at Mrs. Barnett's—a house near camps. Cap. Hill has recovered and returned to camp. Hugh Allen is still very sick yet—also O. H. Shipp. I continue in my usual good health and I sincerely hope that I amy enjoy that good blessing so lohng as the war may last.

News of importance is scarce except from Charleston where all eyes are now turned eagerly awaiting the result of the present furious bombardment. We will not be surprised to hear of the fall of the City and of its destruction by fire which the authorities there say they intend to do as the last resort.

Rosecrans is at Washington City. A great many think he will be placed in command of the "Army of the Potomac."

One regiment of Gen. Forrest's command whipped three regiments of Yankee Cavalry the other day near Sparta—killed a number and took several prisoners, without sustaining much loss.

There are no reports of our having to leave shortly. Don't think we will move until corn gets hard enough for use.

Maj. Christian started the other day to Ky. after horses. He has 20 or 30 men with him. Walter Caldwell and Polk Kyle went from Company D. They are expected to return in a month from the time they started. Today has been set apart by the President as a day of thanksgiving and prayer. We had preaching at the regular stand by Mr. Bunting suitable for the occasion. I don't know that fasting will be much regarded—at least it wasn't this morning about breakfast time.

The weather still continues dry, hot and sultry. The nights however are getting coller, which is quite a relief.

The protracted meeting in our Camp is still going on, but services are confined to the night, this I think is the fifth week since its commencement. I went to town to have my picture taken to send by Charley Caldwell but the artist was in Atlanta. He has returned and if I go to town tomorrow I will have a photgraph taken and send it to you. Excuse this short letter. Give my love to all and believe me to be

your affectionate Brother,
W. Nicholson.

Jones, Margaret Belle, ed. Bastrop; a compilation of material relating to the history of the town of Bastrop, with letters written by Terry Rangers. Bastrop: NP. 1936.

 

---