Source: http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/ga/taylor/letters/a5620001.txt

Letter from Eli AMERSON to his father Thomas Jefferson AMERSON, Sr.

Petersburg, Aug. 31st 1864

Dear Father

I this evening seat myself to write you a few lines which leaves
me in good health hoping these few lines may come to hand and find
you all well. I have no news to write at this time. Things is
very quiet around here at this time. The army is all lying still
now. There is no fighting going on at time but we cant tell how
long it will be before they will make another move but I think Grant
has got tired of moving. He loses about 3000 men every move he
makes. So I dont think it pays him to move on us. They are shelling
the city very heavy today but that is nothing new. I expect he will
make another move before long but in what direction I cant tell.
He will get whipped I dont care where he goes. We whip them on every
Battle and on every field. We are faring very well about something to
eat new. The boys got in yesterday that was at home on detail. There
will be another one soon but I dont reckon I will try to go on it.
My horse is almost gone up the spout. I would like to come home but
it cost to much to go on detail but if I can get to sell my horse I
will come but I think the war it almost over. I think we will have
peace by spring if not sooner. There is a great cry for peace at
the North. I can tell you some good news. Early has whiped Shiradan
out again and is marching on where he pleases to go. Our rigt will be
divided soon. The North Carolina troops will be put in another rigt
and some Ga troops will take their places. Well I have give you all
the news at present. Write soon nothing more at present but still
remaing your affectionate son till death

Eli Amerson