Dear Fannie, Our forces have evacuated Fredericksburg and we are again on the north side of the Rappahannock. What is to be done now I have no idea. I apprehend that the "good people at home" will find that others fail of their purpose besides McClellan. I would not be surprised if that General was again called to the command of the Army of the Potomac. If the "Gentlemen" at home who are crying "Forward to Richmond" will come into the field with their muskets we will go forward with them. Yes, more, we will take the front; but while they remain at home don't let them drive our Generals into attempting that which they cannot perform, thus sacrificing the lives of their soldiers. Life is as dear to us as to them, and though we have placed our lives at the disposal of our Country, we do not like to be pushed on by those who never saw a battle. But I am a little out of tune to-day.

You will excuse this I think when I tell you I had only half a night's sleep, and that on a pile of boards with my overcoat on. Amid all the disagreeable things connected with my present life I never forget you. I love you for your sincerity, your open-heartedness, for your good sense, your wit and because you are Fannie Morrill. For she of all others was the one to captivate the heart of William.