No 39 Rossville, Illinois, Sept 11th 1864.  My Dear Husband  This is Sabbath afternoon; we all went to meeting at Rossville this morning, heard Old father Kingsbury, who preached a thanksgiving, war sermon, this is a day mentioned by the President to offer thanks for the victories of our arms; And we have much indeed to rejoice over; The boasted stronghold of Georgia is ours and all the forts of importance in Mobile bay are in our possession. I don't know when I have heard as good a sermon as this morning; Mr Kingsbury has been a life long abolitionist; and three weeks ago buried a son, who had receivied his death wound at Atlanta in July; but he says he is willing to sacrifice more yet for this noble cause; And this is the feeling all over the North, all desire peace, but it must be an honorable one, such as posterity will not have reason to blush, or curse us for; and till such a peace can be secured the loyal people of the North are ready to sacrifice all, that they may have a country; which they now love, but which we hope to see purer and holier after it has passed this firy ordeal. I am now enjoying my usual health, for a few day last week I was quite unwell. Yours of Aug, 14th was received last Thursday, it was two weeks since I had heard from you, and I assure you
