On the road to Corinth
May 2, 1862My dear Wife and Children,
Since writing to any of you, we have advanced about three or four miles towards Corinth and other divisions have advanced a mile or two further than us. I guess we will move again in a day or two. We are in Maj. Gen. McClernand's division, that is 1st division and 2nd brigade. We are about twelve miles from Corinth. If the rebels make a stand at Corinth, which I think they will, we will have a desperate battle, and we are just as sure to be in it as it comes off. Many and many a poor soldier will fall in that battle. I hope and pray that I will come through safe. I have not been very well for a day or two, but getting better. We are camped in the woods, very nice shady and dry place. Yesterday I had a letter from May and James dated about 21st or 22nd of April. We get very few letters now. I am so glad to hear from you. Tell John that Brunton returned yesterday. He looks like he had been well fed. Tell John for God's sake not to think of coming back. No use in the world. He is not able to soldier, and God knows we have enough of soldiers here that cannot do anything. Silas is doing very poorly. I have not wrote to Salem for some time. Does little Zetty remember me? Don't forget your pa. I wrote to May a day or two ago, McKee and I have been busy for a day or two making out payroll. I guess we will get pay after the fight. I will write every chance. The 22nd Reg. is here some place, have not seen them, so is volunteers.
Yours, William
©2006 C.S. Parkinson
