July 7th 1862

Camp near City Point 

Dearest Aunt, 

Your good and welcome letter of the 1st was received tonight and I hasten to answer in the few leisure minutes that I may send it in tomorrow's mail. I was very much pleased to hear from you again for I had begun to think you had not received my letter or else you had forgotten that one was due me. When I wrote last I believe it was at or near the Battlefield of Fair Oaks. Since then Genl McClellan has made one of the most splendid flank movements that ever was made by any military man. Some, I suppose, would class it as a retreat but none will who know exactly how we were situated.

When I looked at the date of your letter, I was struck with surprise for on that day we were called into action again and three men were shot from my side... [Battle of Malvern Hill July 1, 1862] Perhaps in the same hour that you were directing your thoughts toward me and were engaged in writing me those cheering words of good advice which I will try and follow. Oh! I am sick of seeing so much Bloodshed and suffering which is enough to discourage the most hard veteran. Our Lieut Col. was wounded on the 1st. Five were wounded in our ranks around me, two close by my side and as you say it seems almost a miracle that I have escaped unharmed. While we were moving to this place we marched three nights in succession without sleep. Many are sick with fevers and overexertion and still I am pleased to say that I am tough and hearty.

The weather is very hot here now although it has been very wet for the past few days. I spent the 4th about a mile to the front of here on picket duty. Nine men and three officers were killed early in the morning near where we were by the Rebel Cavalry. Genl McClellan addressed some of our troops briefly on that day. He only waits for them to attack us when he will drive them from their strong hold and cause them to surrender. Our Gun Boats on the river have a good range of them.

I have just written to Grand Pa. I have not heard from him in a long time. lf he knew how much good it does me to receive a letter, he would write more often. I do not hear from Aunt Lindy. I wrote her last. I am much obliged for that little letter of Uncle Riendeans.

Please write soon. Accept much respect and affection. Give my love to Uncle and all the rest. Do not feel any anxiety for me for I have been guided by a merciful hand.

Another Battle is expected here soon. Strong fortifications are being erected here and the necessary arrangements are being made for the coming engagement. I must now bid you Good Night and seek repose for I know not what the morrow may bring forth. Excuse hasty writing and mistakes and believe me, my Dearest Aunt, as ever your loving Nephew, 

A C Woods

62d Regt Anderson Zouaves

Company E

Fortress Monroe, Va

(or elsewhere)