Camp Stonewall Brig 
March, 21st  [1864] 
Dear Sister: 
 I received a letter from you on Saturday last, but as I had written a letter the day before I thought I would delay writing a day or so for fear I should overstock you. 
 There is some stir in the army expecting an advance of the enemy.  Doubtless they will shortly make a move as we have had delightful weather for some time and the roads consequently are in splendid condition.  It is reported that Grant will assume command of the Army of the Potomac and direct operations against the heart of the rebellion (Richmond). They seem to be bringing all their available forces and sparing no means or money to capture that desideratum of Yankee hopes.  Inflamed by the frenzy of despair at the prospect of their fast failing cause and knowing that they must do something to quiet discontent at home they will doubtless spare nothing to be successful in the coming campaign.  But we are elated at the prospect of a speedy deliverance from Yankee rule and tyranny.   
 
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Our army is in fine condition and daily increasing in strength.  We doubtless will have a hard campaign and many noble and gallant spirits must fall but what is that in view of the tremendous issues at stake. 
 Never for one moment must we allow the thought of submission to Yankee rule enter our minds, in view of the difficulties to be encountered, for he who would be free must himself strike the blow.   
 I trust that there is not one so recreant to his sense of duty as now in our hour of trial to desert that glorious banner covered all over with the names of battles which will render the Confederate States of America immortal as long as the world will stand.  And I trust, as our army who have to stand the hardships of the war, are thus determined and consecrated to the cause, that those at home will cheerfully bear the little inconveniences which must necessarily result from such a state of affairs and at least speak words of encouragement to the soldiers and not endeavor to shake their confidence in the cause of religious and civil liberty.  I think all will work harmoniously and after a few more trials we shall be a free, happy and independent people. 
 
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 Whilst our temporal affairs are thus bright and prosperous how is it with our spiritual lives?  Do we continue to grow in the Grace of God, are we found continually pressing forward to the work of our high calling -- I trust we are.  We had the sacrament of the Lord's Supper administered on last Sunday in our Brigade.  I think it is delightful to have these points for renewed consecration of ourselves to the Lord.  Oh how devoted we should be.  Every drop of blood in our veins should thank the Lord for this salvation, for he shed His blood for us.  We have also had some delightful meetings of our Association.  My duties of President expired at the last meeting and Captain Wilson was elected for the next three months. 
 I have seen a notice of the memoirs of Captain White in the Central Presbyterian.  Hope it will soon get to the army, for the life of such a Christian must be of benefit to those who read it.   
 Give my love to all friends. 
      Your bro 
        A.T.B. 
My commission hasnt come yet, dont throw away your weeds yet though as it will get here after while -- 
    A.T.B.