It is now Sunday morning, and quite cold. We have been
building a log-kitchen, and are now building a stable. The government has, I
understand, decided to allow us lumber enough to make us quite comfortable. And
I think we shall give the coming week to it. If we are to remain for the
winter, I incline to think I shall build me a house, by way of pastime, if not
for comfort.
This fine open weather, which has hastened the month of
December to its close, seems made for use. Perhaps if McClellan could have
foreseen it, he would have used it. Now, however, it is too late. Still, events
march, — Kentucky swarming with Union soldiers, and soon to be a battle-field;
Missouri even now the scene of Federal victory
I think the birds of spring will sing Hail Columbia and the
Star Spangled Banner all over the South, though the Christmas chimes and carols
may be sadly out of tune. I hope this letter may reach you in season to bring
my greeting for Christmas eve. We can hardly receive the Christmas message, “On
earth peace, good-will toward men,” in any obvious and literal sense this year.
It is said to be the appointed time for a holiday massacre and uprising among
the slaves. It is certain that few Christmas firesides which do not miss a
soldier from their circle can gather in our land. “Not peace, but a sword.” Yet
I can confidently wish a Merry Christmas to you, and look forward to a happier
New Year. We are fighting a good fight; if only we can be true to our cause and
ourselves, we have the right to indulge the brightest hopes and rely on the
best promises. God is with us.
Hang up every sign of Christmas, — the freshest green.
Commemorate the message and the Prince of Peace. Gather the Christmas
family-circle, and remember the absent; for family ties are never so close as
in these days of separation and trial. Love to all at home. I wish I could send
a token to every one, but, instead, must content myself with good wishes.
Remember me most kindly to all friends. I should like to
drop down among you Christmas morning and catch C——, as I certainly should,
after my reveillé
experience of the past six months.
SOURCE: Elizabeth Amelia Dwight, Editor, Life and
Letters of Wilder Dwight: Lieut.-Col. Second Mass. Inf. Vols., p. 178-9
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