Dear Susan,

It has been so long since I have seen you and Jimmy. I miss you both very much. Today is September 17th 1862 here in Sharpsburg, Maryland. I was speaking with Major. Gen. George MClellan and we had a conversation about our morning attack. He had mentioned that we have lost a lot of our men. Word has gone around that the Confederates are taking our men, and killing them. As a soldier, it has been mentally draining having to see the men that I was recruited with to be shot down right in front of me. As well as having to stay strong to make sure that I come home to you and Jimmy. I have to teach him to be a man, and show no fear. The Union is starting to claim victory. The other men have told me that we have a chance to win this war. There is a rumor that the General of the Confederates is going to step down. It is hard to believe since General Lee is taking a lot of our men. 

I have tried to make sure that I keep you and Jimmy in mind. It is really hard to not be with the both of you. I’m trying really hard to stay holding on. After having to be in this war for so long I am starting to doubt whether it is worth it anymore. I believe that there are other ways to settle things out instead of fighting, and see the men I have grown with having to die because of disagreements. Other than having you and Jimmy in mind, I have also spent a lot of time with some of my brothers here, and we have made a couple tunes. I made a song about you, and I believe that you will love it. The moment I come back home I shall play it for you my love. It is time that I should go. Don’t forget about your dearest, and tell Jimmy I shall come home soon!

-Your Dearest,

George Stephans