Transcription
Addison Aug. 25, 1864
Dear Brother- -
Sad and melancholy are the news that force me to write to you. Our beloved brother Augustus is no more, sorrow and mourning prevail in our household. This morning we received two letters from 105th, one from Col. Dustin the other from Lieut. Bender, they both state the following—August had command of the skirmish line, and on the morning of the 13th he was hit in the throat by a ball while he was washing himself and almost instantly killed. Both letters express their sympathies and Lieut. Bender very appropriately remarks “The Lord gave him, The Lord took him, the Lord’s will be done” Tears blind my eyes I can’t proceed.
Father just returned from the Mill, his agony can not be described at the sad news that awaited him. The Col. says his body will be sent home as soon as permission is rec’d. Thus, dear brother, the effects of this cruel rebellion are for the first time deeply felt in our midst, most keenly felt. It seems from the letters that he was beloved by most all the members of the Regiment and that he was one of the most efficient and faithful officers of the Regiment. Would to God that this rebellion may soon be suppressed and further bloodshed prevented, if you should not return, which I hope you will, I do not know how we can bear the afflictions. Mother bears it better than I expected she would, for although her grief is indescribable she retained her composure. I am myself so weak from the news that I am not able to do anything.
It is indeed as you remarked in your letter bitter to think of the amount of misery in every shape caused by the rebel leaders. Many a youth has laid his life on the Altar and many lives will I fear yet be necessary. But is unnecessary and useless to lament, an Almighty reigns and He will lead us through this war and close it when he sees fit. His will be done.
Your mourning Brother,
Herman
