University of Virginia Library

Letter from Charles N. Tenney to Adelaide E. Case, 28 March 1862

Quite a long period has elapsedd since I commenced
this during which I have dispatched you a harty
note apprising you of my saftey and I resume
the task of answering your four letters (for I received one
since the 21st—the 24th ) Did I say task? I am
wrong, for it is no task to write to her I love better than
myself, and I wrong my self when I write it.

Let me see, when shall I commence?
Do the best I can, I must speak of your last letter
How charming, and so refreshing—coming from
"Maple Grove". two full sheets full of confidence, love, and
sense. Not but all of your letters are so, but after such
horrible battle scenes as I witnessed, your sweet words
were so soothing. How much I prize your letters!
Then—the good news that your Papa bid you be
happy in my love! Addie, have I not much to
make me happy? God being my helper, I will
never give you cause to regret having loved the
humble Charlie Tenney. May God help you dearest

Do not allow my protracted absence to mar your happiness
Addie, for you know I was not to come until July and then
if it is possible, you may be sure. I will hold Lieut. Brisbine to
his promise. And you must not pay too much attention
to Telegraph reports, for you know they are seldom correct, then
you know when it is possible, I shall write very often, and keep
you "posted." I have not yet received another letter from Mrs.
Holcumb and I am not anxious to receive one either—only I
would like to have her know that my intentions were honorable. If
you do not wish me to, I will not send you any more of her
letters but I will send them to Neal—and if you wish you can read
them. Of course I have no objection to your writing any one you
wish. nor do I wish to see you their letters. so remember
I love Addie– not to find fault, for I can trust the one I love.
I am glad you remember me often. not an hour passes but I
invoke the blessings of Heaven upon you.

You request me to wait on your consent to become mine
however repugnant it is for me to wait. I will do so–only you
will not allow too long a time to elapse before you speak of it again will
you.

You mention my sister, and request to know more
of her. I will only say she does not very much resemble me– in
looks as well as disposition.—She is beautiful—very beautiful, and
proud. I will tell you all about her when I come home
You must have an exalted idea of my abilities, indeed ha! ha!
But you must not feel that I wish to exercise any power over you
I only wish you to return my love, as I love.

Have you seen the order relating to soldiers sending
letters from the Peterman? This will explain why my letters have not
been received. but I will write often, and perhaps one may "run
the blockade" and get to you.

I cannot write any thing of the late battle, save
a few incidents. Gen. Moore after Capt. Asper was wounded
had command of the company and distinguished himself. I think
he will be promoted. I think Capt. Asper will be, too.

I regretted that I could not accompany the boys
on the pursuit but my arm was so that I could not.
it is nearly well now. I forgot to say that we were at Strasburg.
My portfolio with my papers got separated from me so I could
not finish this before.

You must write to me very often and I will
write very often too. Can you send me a copy of Laurie's
poem "the Vision"? I learned of it from Charlie Brooks. He
arrived here yesterday. I would very much like to see it and
also your "Fifty years ahead." But if it will be any trouble you need
not mind it.