| Summary: | During the Civil War, Alex served in the 2nd and 3rd Alabama Cavalry. In the letter he describes a recent snowball fight: "There was many a battle fought yesterday, among the soldiers, with snowballs. About nine (9) oclock Capt Drew, of Co 'A,' sent in a flag of truce, with a chalange [sic], which was accepted by Capt Holloway. A line of battle was formed by both companies, and we all set vigorously to work, making balls. Even the negroes took a hand. Well in about ten minutes the fight began, by Capt Drews driving in our skirmishers. The battle lasted about a half hour, we holding our position, when the order was given, on both sides, to 'cease firing.' Many a fellow got his fill of snow." He then discusses the effect of the snow on the war ("will retard army movements for some time") and the crops ("The fruit crop will be an entire failure...It will also injure the corn and grain crops seriously in all parts of the Confederacy"). He also mentions Charlie's plans to leave school and join him in the military; the government's impressment of horses in Alabama; the high cost of provisions; new Confederate money to be issued soon; and the availability of food in camp ("We are doing very well in the eating line."). A transcription is included.
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