Page:The Story of Aunt Becky's Army-Life .djvu/219

Rh can sleep if the mice and wind hush their unwelcome clatter long enough to-night.

1em The wind continues to blow, rocking my tent like a boat on the billows; it would not surprise me if it broke from its moorings in some sudden blast, and drifted off into the unknown water.

I had a letter from home, and was as glad to get it as a child would be to see the face of its mother after long absence. How cheered up and hopeful I feel after reading it, and being assured that they wait and watch for me. The transport has again left with its load of precious sick. 1em Oh! for the summer weather, and the ceasing of these doleful March winds. I had a visit from Lieutenant French, a good friend, with whom I could converse at ease.

1em We have had a severe battle. The rebels took our troops by surprise, and many were killed as they slept. Our loss has not yet been estimated, but they are bringing in the wounded by scores. Our men drove them back, unprepared as they were for fight, and took many prisoners.

1em Over four hundred wounded men have been brought in, of which number about forty are rebels,