Camp 8th La Inf - Milliken's Bend, La, Sept. 8th, 1863(Note: This letter is by 1st Lieutenant, H. H. McElhaney)
Mrs. Parkinson
Madame,
You will please be so kind as to excuse this correspondent for not addressing you sooner during your irrepairable and unfortunate loss of a kind husband and brave soldier, but as John Parkinson was here immediately after the sad hour which cast a gloom of melancholy and sorrow over the whole Company. In fact, the Regiment seemed to feel the effects of it. I was even unable, as John can tell, to get out of my tent half the time and there, in violation of the Sergeant's orders. Then we waited the arrival of some one from Centralia every day. Then when James left here, he promised faithfully to write to me about his Company accounts, though I have been unable through sickness to attend to it, though I am now. He will also tell you I believe I done all the little lay in my power for him in every way. I also think I done all [in] my energies known to promote your noble husband's comfort, from my bed to my pillows, and that's as he often told me before he was unable to move out of bed, that he liked to sleep on that lounge, although a poor bed when at home, none knows what sickness is until cruel disease blights the brave and kind, though too often neglected soldiers battling for his country and flag far from his loved home and friends, off in a land of malaria and all contagious diseases are in his way. I've waited for James to write giving me some information in regard to you getting the Captain's pay, and his accounts settled with the government, so you can draw your money. His accounts in one or two instances failed by the clothing falling short in the boxes, but as that part is attended to in a manner, James will explain to you, I need give no other explanation at present.
©2006 C.S. Parkinson