4 pp, in ink, on blue lined paper measuring 6 ¾" x 8 ¼". Overall good condition. Moderate soiling on front page; scattered spots on other pages. Two page tears measuring 1 ½" and 3" each.

Dated March 21, 1862 at Camp Barstow near Fredericksburg (VA). Signed "W. Tompkins" and addressed to his wife, Lizzie. Text reads in part:

"I fear that you are sick and unable to write or that you have written to Manassas and your letters have been destroyed….Everything seems to be quiet here. We hear nothing of the Yankees. I suppose our retreat frustrated them and they are not prepared to advance so far. I understand that they had considerable rejoicing in occupying the positions that they had been run from. I reckon they think they will hold it now at all hazards, but if they do not look sharp they may have another Bull Run affair of it…. The legion is in very good health but for bad colds…."

We have not made a positive identification for this individual - would make an interesting research project!