My very dear wife, the indications are very strong that we shall move in a few days, perhaps tomorrow. Lest I should not be able to write you again, I feel impelled to write lines that may fall under your eye when I shall be no more.
Our movement may be one of a few days duration and full of pleasure—and it may be one of severe conflict and death to me. Not my will, but thine, O God, be done. If it is necessary that I should fall on the battlefield for my country, I am ready.
I have no misgivings about, or lack of confidence in, the cause in which I am engaged, and my courage does not halt or falter. I know how strongly American Civilization now leans upon the triumph of the Government, and how great a debt we owe to those who went before us through the blood and suffering of the Revolution.
And I am willing—perfectly willing—to lay down all my joys in this life, to help maintain this Government, and to pay that debt.
About This Letter
Historical Context
Written one week before Sullivan Ballou was killed at the First Battle of Bull Run. The letter was never sent but found among his personal effects.
Significance
One of the most poignant letters of the Civil War, expressing the conflict between love of family and duty to country.
About Sullivan Ballou
Sullivan Ballou (1829-1861) was a successful lawyer and politician from Rhode Island who volunteered for the Union Army as a major in the 2nd Rhode Island Infantry.
About Sarah Hart Shumway Ballou
Sarah Hart Shumway Ballou was Sullivan's wife and mother of their two young sons. She never remarried after his death.
Additional Resources
- National Park Service Official NPS article about the letter
- American Battlefield Trust Full text and historical context