Civil War Letter

Dear Brother (NAME):

I take this occasion to bear pen in hand to let you know that I am alive and unhurt. I sent you a message last month by carrier pigeon. Since my endeavor has not been reciprocated, I can only assume the shoddy bird did not survive - as you are not a shirker. I know you to be a high-minded man and a gentleman. My implicit confidence is, of course, placed in you that future correspondence will be met with alacrity.

How is the farm? Could you please sell one of the cows and send me the money? I am cold and hungry. Overall, I am doing tolerable well but am suffering from a case of rumbling bowels as our cook, Bubby Hinkle, has gone on furlough. I cannot begin to tell you how I long for even one of his little beef patties after a full day in battle. But alas, I will have to eat what is left of my bread and salt pork and gather up what I can without depleting my ammunition until his safe return. 

Our brothers in the “Bloody 28th”, Harry, Hal, William, and Reuben are doing as well as can be expected. Our new friend, Thomas, while also very hungry, remains genteel and affable. Unfortunately, brother Evan has died after being wounded at the Battle of Springhill by one of those intolerable blue bellies. Our new friend A.B. also suffered the same fate. 

All honor to their names. 

Recently, I acquired this badge from brother H. St. Jno. Dixon. Since all of us lost the original bestowed upon us, Dixon delicately used a pocket knife and file to turn this silver half-dollar into a representation of the White Cross of Sigma Chi. According to him, they used this emblem to keep our cherished fraternity alive in the South… for the perpetuity of our union. It is a symbol that reminds us that no matter how far apart we are and how wretched times can get, we will always be bound by the most sacred ties of friendship and love. Spirits can never be divided that love and live in friendship.

This badge you now possess (a replica commissioned by our 65th Grand Consul, Bob Jones), was used at The Constantine Chapter, C.S.A. To you, I am committing the care of our reputation by sending you this special object of our esteem. Our honor is in your keeping. 

My love to all the family and respects to inquiring friends. 

I shall expect to hear from you soon…...

I remain your devoted brother, mostly bored and occasionally sick, but generally pretty well to be honest.

Mich.J.Graham - In Hoc Signo Vinces.