October 16, 1862
The papers have written about the Battle of Antietam. They have written how heavily outnumbered General Lee’s troops were compared to the forces of the union; who was lead by General McClellan. Many know him to be a brave General that offered his assistance to only Lincoln during this time of need. Even though the troops were outnumbered both held on till at last Lee’s troops retreat towards Virginia, leaving behind 23,000 soldiers dead. The Union forces see this as victorious with brave soldiers honored deaths; I cannot help but see something different. I see many lives gone and many families left to morn. With me but only 26 years of age I feel as though children have been lead to slaughter.
I have counted thousands of deaths since the war began and I cannot help but pray that none of which those soldiers who are being mourned are my husband; Thomas. Every day I look to the window awaiting my mail and praying to God that I do not receive a letter with black edges to notify me of death. My husband had promised me he would come back in little time; before I blink my eye I remember him saying. I have blinked my eyes several times now, blinked away the tears, he still has yet to complete his promise to me.
