6The second of a trio.
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Corporal J. Masterson-
July 5, 1863
I am writing to you from Washington. We - that is, my brother, my aunt, and I - have ventured down here in an effort to enjoy the festivities of yesterday. The festivities were not as extravagant, nor were they as joyous, as some are said to have been. Which point is understandable, it being the middle of a war. The war cannot last much longer. News circulates about a battle fought in Gettysburg. Perhaps you have heard? It was apparently an important victory, from the information I've gleaned.
I've neglected to mention: I have seen the president! He made a speech from the front of the capitol yesterday noon. He spoke of how the end of the war was near. He also spoke of how new recruits were needed, and that the military would be beginning a draft, that is, forcing those that would not fight willingly to do so. This, of course, he said, would not be necessary there being an abundance of volunteers, he hoped? At that the crowd have a roar. My brother, uncle, and I were cheering along with them, my brother with such fervency that it made me nervous.
I have brought along the loom and hated linen. I know it is for a good cause, but the endless weaving wears at my patience. At least here, though, I can watch out the window as I weave.
My eyelids grow heavy. I shall retire and write more in the morning.
July 6
A terrible thing has occurred. My brother has left to join the army! He was gone this morning, and when we searched, we found a note on his bed explaining that he had been moved by the president's plea for good men of the day before, and had gone to do his duty. He assures us he will not let harm come to him, and will return victorious.
The boy is fifteen! He has never handled a gun, he has never killed man, he has never known a man to be killed! I do not even know which regiment he joined. Doubtless they will send him back when they see his age, but if they don't we will have no way of knowing where he is, nor whether he lives or dies. I worry for him.
I shall close here. Am too distracted to write more.
Sincerely,
Lindy Finlay