July 5, 1864: Mary Craig Eyster to John Riddle Warner

John Riddle Warner was the grandfather of the poet Marianne Moore and during the Civil War he lived in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Mary Eyster was his sister-in-law and was caring for his toddler daughter Mary. These letters are preserved as part of Marianne Moore’s family papers.

   Transcript:

Chambersburg, July 5^th, 69

Dear Brother,

We are all at home and all well. There has been considerable excitement, but it has calmed down. I had no idea of leaving – I believe the rebels are still loitering about on the other side of the river. I do hope they will not get here. Mother had just come from Watson’s Saturday morning, she was very much frightened. Fred took her back yesterday morning. Think she had better remain there a few days, it doesn’t suit for her to be where there is much excitement. Mary has a little boil on one of her cheeks. She says “Papa. good girl”. George got home Sabbath evening just in the midst of the excitement. Don’t you think you’ll be over this week?

Yours affectionately,

Mary

News are not quite so favorable, but I do hope the Rebs will not get this far. We will stay in our house as long as we can. Will you go away Monday evening?

M

Citation: Mary Craig Eyster, autograph letter signed to John Riddle Warner. Chambersburg, Pa.; 5 July 1864. Moore VI:06:07