28 April 1862

Headquarters, Lee’s Farm
April 28, 1862, Monday night

Just after I wrote you yesterday by Col. Black, I received yours of Wednesday, which was the first intelligence from you since the letter received that day.

I have little time & I must confess little heart to write now as I’ve just returned from a long ride & am greeted with the certain fall of New Orleans. This is one of the most terrible blows yet, & confirms the impression I’ve entertained for some time that we can make no successful defense against their gunboats & Yorktown will not, I fear, furnish an exception. Reflect carefully on what I’ve previously written in regard to business matters, & endeavor to conform your action thereto.

I can’t think we shall have a fight here for some days, perhaps a week or more, if then, as the enemy is endeavoring to make a sure game of it, which will require time, I am rather afraid.

I had a chill yesterday but am taking quinine & hope to be relieved tomorrow. I trust my dear children are all well of the mumps. Kiss each & all many times for their absent father, & may God continue, in HIs mercy, to preserve their lives & grant them health & happiness. Heavy defend & keep you.

Warmest love to Mattie & all at Woodlawn. Haven’t see Walthall. Didn’t know that he was here. Will try to get to see him tomorrow. I fear George can’t get off to take that Adjutancy till the regiment is raised. Your last letter came via Williamsburg, the mail for which place leaves Richmond Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays, & letters should be mailed the day before. You had better write that way care of Col. Ewell who’ll forward.

In haste, ever & only your own, — J. B.

Mrs. John B. Cary
Richmond, Virginia