Brown, Ann H. (fl. 1862) to Mary Kelly

Winchester Va. 5th Mo. 16th 1862
Dear Mary

More than a month has elapsed since the date of thy letter. The only reason it has not been acknowledged is that the duties of the day ? the whole of it and wear ? much to write in the evening. This morning I am in my attic room at my brother's. It has rained most of two days and present appearances indicate that third will be equally damp and dreary. The trees near me are in full leaf. Vegetation is going on. The birds are singing and setting their houses in order. All creation is at peace and moving in its usual order except the noblest work of God. Man is insubordinate - Cain like killing his brother…

I am interested in the contents of thy letter, but most in that which says thy husband was no worse after the journey than when he started from this place. It gives me a hope that he will be restored to health, at least enough to be comfortable and happy as many years longer as life may be desirable. That thee may yet find something in Spring to make it bright and beautiful to thee as it is to many others. Yesterday I dined at cousin Eliza Shumat's (?). Mattie was not quite well. I read a letter informing us that Lieutenants Slocum and Lindsey are improving, but not likely to be on their feet for several weeks to come. They think they are well attended by surgeons and Sisters of Charity.
I think most of the patients who were removed from the Union to the ? Hospital have been benefited. Many have gone home. Some have died but their cases were the result of improper treatment at the Union. Bad amputations or ? in the wounds. From the same cause, the extent of the injury of some has been only discovered after they had been six weeks in the hospital. Now if there is a reason why such discovery could not be made immediately after the wound I would be glad to know it. That I may feel more amiable towards a surgeon for whom, at present, I feel the utmost contempt, almost or quite as much as I feel for the Original traitor.
I suppose thee will someday receive the photograph thee desires, but I cannot tell when that day will be. I am slow about going to an artist to sit for my picture.
Mary J. Slocum addressed a letter to me, making some inquiry relative to her husband. It was not received early, but I answered it promptly and gave such information as I had myself. I sincerely hope she may be constantly informed of his condition, which seems to be improving. Suspense is so painful, yet do we not sometimes thank God that we cannot look into the future. Would not our sorrows be generally magnified and multiplied if we anticipated them? The most of pleasure is sometimes in the expectation of it.
A number of sick have been brought to town from Banks' division, but I believe there has not been much fighting lately. The army is moving southward those unable to bear marching are left behind to rest and recover their strength.
Anna Jackson continues assiduous in her attention to the suffering young Gardener who was wounded in the head is improving. ? was hope he will recover for sometime he was ill. He has a faithful nurse besides a brother and the special care of Anna. One father who came to wait on his son has died of fever. His wife and son came on the day after he died. She has returned. The son remained with his brother. His name is Sands. ? in Cincinnati.
I will hope to hear from thee very soon. That Captain Kelly is getting well and that they some health is good, as well as that of thy little daughter. But thee will write all that I ought to know connected with thyself and thine. Tell me too how Mary Slocum bears her trials. She is delicate and will suffer more than one more robust. I am interested in herself & husband.
Accept for thyself and husband my affectionate sympathy,
Ann H. Brown